Project Be-YOU-tiful 2024
In a world where polished images and curated social media feeds often overshadow the genuine beauty of individuality, we embarked on a project that aims to celebrate just that—authentic, unfiltered beauty. The "Be-YOU-tiful" project, seeks to capture teens in their most natural state, embracing who they are without the gloss of makeup or the stylization of hairdressing. It's about showcasing teens as they are, with all their unique traits and inherent beauty. Each participant is photographed naturally, allowing their true selves to shine through.
The true beauty of this project extends beyond the photographs themselves. All proceeds from the "Be-YOU-tiful" project are being donated to the Domestic Violence Intervention Center.
One of the most rewarding aspects of this project has been hearing the stories behind each participant's smile. From the shy teenager who found confidence in their natural self to the outspoken advocate for body positivity, each story adds depth to the visual narrative. These portraits are more than images; they are a testament to the courage and self-acceptance of every individual who participated.
Each participating teen answered a set of questions surrounding the topic of beauty and confidence and being yourself - many gave us permission to share their responses with their name, or anonymously. Some of their responses are below (anonymous responses do not correspond to the photos shared next to their quotes).
What do you think makes you beautiful and/or unique?
“My curly hair and my passion for Jesus and Broadway is what makes me unique!” -Anonymous
“I think what makes me unique and beautiful is my walk with Jesus. In 1 Peter, it talks about how beauty is not just in the outside but from within. When I walk with Jesus’s light it allows me to shine his light to others. I also think what makes me beautiful is I try and be myself all the time. Being your true and best self shows how beauty is within everyone and everyone’s beauty is different!” -Mackenzie Young
“Something that makes me beautiful is that I am very compassionate and understanding.” -Lydia Boone
What is something young people can do to help others feel confident being themselves?
“I believe something young people can do to help others feel confident in themselves is to encourage and cheer each other on. Instead of bringing others down we should focus on lifting each other’s crowns.” - Caroline Couey
“I think more young people should help uplift others by accepting who they are. If more people would worry more about themselves than trying to fit in, the world may be a better place. Trying to fit into a certain clique isn’t always the best idea.” -Anonymous
Who is someone beautiful in your life, and why are they beautiful to you?
“My mom is someone beautiful in my life. She has always been there for my brother and me. I look up to her in many ways. She is strong, kind, and everything I want to be. She is beautiful.”
“My mom is someone beautiful to me. I feel like her beauty is more than just the outside, it’s the beauty from the inside that radiates out and onto others. She is beautiful in so many ways! She is beautiful inside and out!” -Lelia Parker
