This series of photographs relates to the media’s portrayal of Gen Z. In most articles, Gen Z children are accused of using technology too much and constantly being distracted by phones and other devices. The intent of my images is to show how teenagers are misrepresented by these stereotypes.

Most of the time, our use of technology is portrayed in a negative light, but these photographs attempt to shine a more positive light on this subject. The first two photographs represent the usefulness of technology. While my generation does constantly use technology, most of this use has a purpose. In the case represented by the photographs, the person imaged used the GPS on their phone to direct them to the location in the photos, and then used the camera on the phone to take pictures. The images are representing the convenience of phones and other portable electronics. They create unprecedented opportunities, such as having a GPS and digital camera on one device. While technology is heavily involved in these actions, there is an important and useful purpose for it. Technology doesn’t consume us; technology guides and supports us in most of what we do.

The last photo shows how while we do use technology in the majority of our daily lives, we are still able to put it down and enjoy what is in front of us. It shows the separation that most people can’t see, because they are too consumed with the content from the first two images. Contrary to popular belief, we have the ability to pull away from the constant stream of information. The false representation that our generation is on our phones every waking minute is based off an exaggeration from other generations that don’t understand the technology and the role it plays.

Gallery • 3 Photos