A photographic essay that explores a wide spectrum of experiences told from
the perspective of a diverse group of young people, ages 14–24, identifying
as queer (lesbian, gay, bisexual, transgender, or questioning), Speaking
OUT: Queer Youth in Focus presents portraits without judgment or stereotype
by eliminating environmental influence with a stark white backdrop. This
backdrop acts as a blank canvas, where each subject’s personal thoughts are
handwritten onto the final photographic print. With more than 65 portraits
photographed over a period of 10 years, the book provides rare insight into
the passions, confusions, prejudices, joys, and sorrows felt by queer youth
and gives a voice to an underserved group of people that are seldom heard
and often silenced. The collaboration of image and first-person narrative
serves to provide an outlet, show support, create dialogue, and help those
who struggle.