Service desert supermarket. Desperately looking for a specific product and no salesperson can be found. Of course, that’s how we see it from the customer’s perspective. But what is the reality?
Since my wife works there, I have had many insights into the job in the past. Now I wanted to explore this with the camera. And the feeling I had during my time there is certainly quickly apparent in my chosen image style. In order to keep the goods on the shelves at all times, it's hectic, many, many kilograms have to be lifted and the employees are seemingly invisible to the customers.
A job that is essential for each of us, but that is hardly noticed outside. Only during Corona, when everyone was trying to get to safety, did public awareness awaken for a brief moment and everyone clapped together. But just as quickly as it came, the appreciation disappeared again. That's why I would like to use my project to once again highlight the efforts of those who make our shelves full every day. And that's why it would be a pleasure for me the next time you're in the supermarket and you can't immediately find someone to talk to when you have a question, to keep a little calm, because now you know what else needs to be done.
...just my 50 cent...
PS: This project was created for a reportage workshop at the Cologne Photography School. To capture the hustle and bustle of the parallel world of retail, I chose a completely different style from my usual, photographing. Everything with flash and a long exposure time. It was a great experience that was a lot of fun and added another tool to my toolbox. Speaking of toolboxes... maybe some of you noticed the little reference to Wilson from the ToolTime series without to see his face until the end. ;)
Many thanks to my beloved wife for making this project possible, and to REWE's Dirk Pfleger for allowing me to photograph freely in the store. Also, a big thank you to Frank Dürrach for a truly informative insight into reportage photography. I learned a lot here and can truly recommend the workshop to everyone.
