Maple Syrup
I’m looking at this picture, and all I can think about is how difficult it’s going to be to wash the maple syrup out of her hair. The way the camera flash hits the syrup and makes it glow is a striking effect, though.
Cottage Cheese
Few men can manage to pull off a “come hither” stare while cold, gloppy cottage cheese is making its way down their hair. Well done, Joel.
Velveeta
“Everyone I shot asked how they were supposed to react, and frankly, I didn’t know. I told them … [to] react as naturally as anyone would getting such an unusual substance thrown onto them,” Wachter tells. “And that’s what happened. The reactions were pure.”
SpaghettiOs
I haven’t craved a bowl of SpaghettiOs since I was about eight years old, but this is making me fondly remember its orange sauce and tomato-with-a-touch-of-chemicals flavor.
Apple Sauce
All of these shots were taken in the hallway of Wachter’s apartment in Brooklyn, New York, a few years ago. They’re now available in a book, Dumped!, which can be purchased on Blurb.com.
Sunny Delight
The reactions Wachter captured are absolutely priceless. This one’s a favorite of mine—definitely the best use of Sunny D since it came out on the market.
Dish Detergent
I love that the participant who looks the most disgusted has arguably the least disgusting substance to tolerate. Imagine how she’d look if she got tarred and feathered!
Oatmeal
“As retribution at the end of the shoot, I let them dump oatmeal and cinnamon on me,” Wachter says. The mark of a great artist is a commitment to her craft, after all, and Wachter is a photographer with an inspiring, yet relatable, vision. Plus, she chose one of my favorite breakfasts, which instantly makes her cool in my book. If you want to receive updates about Wachter’s work and sources of inspiration, be sure to check out her blog.
