What inspired you to photograph and print plants and flowers? 

HA: During the lockdown I started to notice trees in my garden in ways I hadn't before. I knew neither the names nor much information about them. I decided to create a book of photos to learn more about plants using a photography technique called polaroid transfer.

Can you describe the technique?  

HA: Polaroid transfer is a technique that transfers the image from a Polaroid instant print onto paper, among other things. In my case, I used a polaroid land camera from the 1960's.  With it, I used Fujifilm 100c.   

How did you learn the technique? 

HA: I found the instructions on Youtube. In terms of equipment, you need: bleach, a roller to flatten the image, a camera, film and brush. The technique allows you to create 3 prints from one image.  After taking the photograph, you peel the paper and stick the negative on the paper for about 1 minute and the image will be printed. The second image is from bleaching the negative. You put some bleach on a glass and brush it until you get a negative. You then scan it and get the digital print.  The third print is the original image on the paper.

What were the challenges you faced?  

HA: You never know the final result. Sometimes it doesn't come out as expected. 

What did you learn from the process?  

HA: I learned about the plants, their flowering season; which fruits can grow in Kuwait. Some plants photograph better than others. The bigger leaves photograph better for instance.  Using an old camera and film processing is a great way to connect with the art of image creation. I love the handmade aspect of it, it is both an art and a craft.