Body of Water is a black and white digital photograph series of eight images that express the connection between humans and water. The combination of digital cameras and Adobe Lightroom was used to create the harmonious collection. The series includes the three stages of water: liquid, solid, and vapor. Each form of the compound element is the subject of two images, with the liquid state being the subject of four as a way to show both the large and small scale forms. All photographs were created during Spring of 2021 as a part of the Senior Project Studio course at DePaul University.

     This series is focused on the interactions between humans and water. It is to illustrate how the human experience relies on water as more than just a means to survive. The human body is not only made up of the compound, but both our physical and mental wellbeing are strengthened by connecting with it. The healing properties go beyond the routine necessities such as hydration, and dive deeper into the possibilities of change. Water is a symbol of rebirth, where people can transform from their past and move forward into a cleansed future. It is also a symbol of growth, bringing life to our surrounding environments through the plants and the oceans. As it breathes energy into both our planet and our people, it is undeniable that it itself contains energy that is unlike any other. We are a body of water that is revitalized when connecting with the element.

     In order to capture the connection between humans and water, McKenna aimed to shoot the three different stages of the compound interacting with a person in various ways. This includes the changes that can occur that are caused by the interaction. For example, the warmth of human skin can cause water to transform from its solid form back into its liquid state. Or, the collision between liquid water and a human body can create a change to the direction of the flow, such as a wave or a splash shattering into smaller pieces. For a handful of the images, McKenna used a model to express my ideas, but for others, she sat quietly and photographed as people naturally connected with the water.