In December of 2018, I was approached by two Trans activists, Kit Malone with the ACLU, and Tyne Parlett, who works towards eliminating Trans homelessness, to collaborate on a photography series highlighting the pride, vulnerability, and beauty of the Trans community of Indianapolis.
The project was to capture three to four pictures of each subject, one of their face, full body, favorite body part, and something on them that made them feel visible or most like themselves. Every few weeks we would set up a pop up studio with one cheap speed light and a Smirnoff back drop we borrowed from our local gay bar. We shot at Balls, support groups, our local Trans Glam (think LGBT+ Prom), cafes, anywhere we could get permission. In total I think we captured at least 50 faces from our community. Creating a safe space for expression and collaboration was the main focus of each session.
This project is a love letter, a census, and declaration that Trans Indianapolis exists and is thriving despite the bigotry they consistently face. It was an honor to be a part of this project. It is our hope that you see the diversity in our community, that Trans does have to not look a certain way, and that the voices of each person in these photos is heard and may be a comfort or inspiration to someone else in their journey with their identity.
