This photographic project investigates the psychological dimensions inherent in the daily commuting experience, elucidating its dual character as both a source of stress and a context for introspection. Centred on the 70-mile round trip between Plymouth and Bodmin, this project intricately intertwines personal insights gained from professional experiences as a crime scene investigator (CSI) with broader societal issues, including themes of isolation, resilience, and recovery, through the application of reflexive storytelling alongside documentary style photography. ‘Commuter’ critically examines the impact of routine travel on mental well-being, particularly within high-stress occupational environments. This work foregrounds the commute concept as a liminal space, a transitional phase between professional obligations and personal life. Drawing upon Kaplan’s theory of restorative environments, ‘Commuter’ underscores the potential of natural landscapes to foster mental clarity and promote psychological decompression. This therapeutic dimension starkly contrasts experiences characterised by monotony and stress, including traffic congestion and adverse weather conditions, which resonate with Korsmeyer’s notion of aesthetic disgust. Insights derived from an internal survey conducted at Cornwall Police Headquarters revealed that 30% of respondents had commutes exceeding 30 minutes and utilised this time for personal recovery. These findings contribute substantively to the commute as a collective yet distinctly personal experience. Visually, the project employs a hybrid methodological approach that integrates reflexive and documentary techniques. Reflexive narratives are articulated through interior car shots and moments of contemplation that capture the psychological toll associated with habitual travel. Concurrently, documentary techniques are leveraged to portray the external environment, with dynamic representations of the A38 as a symbolic collaborator. This juxtaposition of interiority and expansive externality reflects the inherent dualities of commuting—confinement versus freedom and routine versus unpredictability. The collaborative aspects of the project are further affirmed within professional contexts. The work has been exhibited at Cornwall Police Headquarters alongside mental health resources provided by Mind.org.uk and Oscar Kilo’s Forensic Wellbeing Toolkit. Audience feedback has emphasised the project’s significance in discussions concerning workplace mental health, particularly for individuals operating within demanding fields such as forensic investigation. Plans for a permanent exhibition at the headquarters are in place to ensure the continued relevance of ‘Commuter’ and foster an ongoing dialogue regarding the psychological implications of daily routines. Thematically and methodologically, ‘Commuter’ is a foundational precursor to the forthcoming final major project, which will delve into the pragmatic realities of a CSI’s work. Expanding on themes of observation, routine, and resilience, the final project will integrate forensic photography techniques to document the procedural and emotional landscapes evoked in the context of crime scene investigations. Ultimately, ‘Commuter’ inspires audiences to critically reassess their daily journeys, promoting the identification of meaning and mindfulness within the journey between work and home. By contributing to the broader conversation on mental health and resilience, this project exemplifies the potential of photography in illuminating the complexities associated with routine and professional life.
*Photographs taken while driving were done remotely or by an interval timer while the camera was secured in place so as not to cause distraction*