Photography Blog 2

"Mark Adams"

I chose to do use Mark Adams photos for my blog entry because of the fact that he

was able to capture moments that are considered to be precious moments for the people that are apart of my culture. Most of the photos that I have attached onto this blog are photos that I found off of Google but also remember seeing in a book called "Tatau." The photos are all based on people receiving a tattoo, a tattoo that remains sacred to the Samoan people. 

This photo shows a man who has a Sogamiti but hasn't completed it. A Sogaimiti is a traditional tattoo for the Samoan men which is mainly received by the Chiefs of the family. Receiving the Sogaimiti is a long on going process that is taken seriously amongst our people along with the Malu. A Malu is a traditional tattoo for the Samoan Women. It represents that the women is not only the protector of her family but her whole village as well. Looking at the photos taken by Mark Adams shows that the Sogaimiti and the Malu are more than just a tattoo used for decoration, it's a tattoo that is cherished and sacred. I believe that when others are viewing his photos they can also tell that the ink isn't just for decoration or show. There's more to it meaning once you take a glance at his work you can tell that there's a story that lies behind each photo, even if the photos are just of men getting their Sogaimiti because every man is different and so are the reasons for them getting it done.