Shades of Pale

About the project: I launched a photo project to celebrate the skin condition, vitiligo. The project documents women with vitiligo in the most beautiful way. This skin condition is characterized by patches of skin losing their pigment. Concept: In the literal and biological sense, we are saying farewell to the melanin. However, in the broader sense, we are breaking free from our perception of beauty. The photo series shows the individuality of women with vitiligo and celebrates and reinterprets their skin as a beautifully painted canvas. Background information Elisabeth has lived with the skin condition since 8 years. This experience has inspired her to launch the project. “During my day-to-day job as a photographer, people asked me a lot of questions about my skin. This made me wonder: why not use these two experiences, photography and my skin condition? Photography has given me a platform to document and celebrate the vitiligo body. It is an ode to its beauty and uniqueness.” Woman from all over the world have been photographed by Elisabeth. For them, this experience wasn’t only a way of expressing themselves creatively. It has also been incredibly therapeutic. “90% of the woman hadn’t been in front of a camera. They really stepped out of their comfort zone. It feels very rewarding that the photoshoot contributed to their self-confidence. By portraying these women, I want to make a connection that is meaningful; not only to them, but also to the viewer. For many women I have portrayed, it was a process of healing and acceptance."