I Acknowledge Beauty Exists…photographer Steve Rosenfield’s “What I Be Project”

“I am not my gender”

Everyone has insecurities and most of us are pretty good at hiding them. Recognizing this, photographer Steve Rosenfield began the “What I Be Project” as a way to invite outsiders into the world of his subjects, as they visibly display their insecurities for all to see.

The ‘What I Be Project’ is about being honest with ourselves and each other. We live in a society that tells us what the acceptance way to look and act is. When we break from those standards, we leave ourselves open to judgment, harassment and sometimes physical abuse. Steve wanted this project to be a catalyst for communication and to allow everyone to accept diversity with a more open mind and heart.

The subjects were allowed to expose a side of themselves that no one has ever seen before, resulting in powerful yet relatable imagery. “What I Be Project” shows that everyone has something that makes them feel uncomfortable. By stating ‘I am not my_____,’ they are claiming that they do in fact struggle with these issues, but it does not define who they are as a person.

The goal of the project is not to discredit the insecurities – it is to spread awareness of what people go through on a day to day basis as a result of society’s standards. Steve says:

“I encourage every viewer to look at each image and put yourself in the individuals shoes. By allowing yourself to feel what they feel, you might realize something you’ve never noticed before. Some of the faces you may recognize, some you may not. Take the time to connect with each one. You may see yourself within one of the photos.” [Source]

Without a doubt, we would live in a much different world if we spent more time understanding than judging each other. Here are some of the striking images in “What I Be Project”: