Stuff in a Bucket

by Liz Ream

As a female, when deciding what to wear every day, accessories are key. Whether it’s jewelry, scarves, bags or shoes, every girl has something that she just can’t do without. Recently, Maine-based photographer Greta Rybus added an interesting new accessory to her wardrobe— one that she takes with her everywhere. A white plastic bucket from Ace Hardware.

A few months ago, Greta was photographing a lobster boat, and she took a photo of bait fish in a white bucket. She looked down at the photo and couldn’t help but notice that it created a lovely, perfect circle. In the moment, Stuff in a Bucket was born.

Greta elaborated on how this project differs from her usual work:

In many ways, it feels entirely different than what I normally work on. It’s more about shape and color than content and storyline. It’s simpler, less layered. But, in some ways it feels very similar. I’ve been dedicated to photographing everyday people, documenting people at every level of perceived beauty or success level, age or background. I want to create a very egalitarian body of work. This project feels similar because I’m photographing everyday objects– things that might not always be photographed– giving them the same treatment and respect.

When Greta first discussed the idea with friends and colleagues, they didn’t completely understand the concept. Regardless, Great had a vision of potential all her own, and so far, that vision has paid off:

This is a very indulgent process for me. It’s the first project I’ve worked on that comes simply from my own imagination and creativity. I don’t depend on anyone else: I don’t have to email anyone, I don’t have to make arrangements. It’s just me, my bucket, and whatever I can dream up. It’s very liberating and very satisfying.

Greta was recently a guest Instagrammer at Feature Shoot, photographing all bucket photos. It was the first time she was able to introduce the series to a larger community, and she received great feedback. It appears she isn’t the only one who enjoys the simplicity and beauty of “creating something from nothing.”

For more of Greta’s work, check out her website.

---

Let us help you Find Photographers, source Stock Photography, Produce Your Shoot, or just reach out to hear more!