We are not the sum of our insecurities
While working as a medical photographer in Addenbrooke's Hospital, I photographed many different conditions - some of them minor, others you really don't want to know about. And I will never forget the way patients would enter the clinical studio - so intimidated because they have to have that condition - regardless if it is permanent or temporary - recorded, stored, used as reference, shown to students; but most of all shown to me at that particular moment of time.
What none of the patients actually realised is that I have never (and I am sure I can speak on behalf of my medical photographer colleagues) ever connected the problem to the person. These are two different things. The person is not the condition. And the condition does not define the person.
So why am I telling you this?
Because portrait photography goes beyond your physical attributes and looks into your personality, into your soul. You might be surprised but no one judges these couple of extra pounds, and the little wrinkles around your eyes are actually charming.
We are beautiful, I can see it. And I can show you.
Straight-talking and outcome focused HR | Operational and Compliance | Strategic | Learning and Development | Employee Engagement
3 年Stunning shot of you Berenice
NHS Addenbrookes Hospital | Cambridge | Secretarial / PA trained
3 年Such a lovely article and so very true, I know the patients I work with are ill but I don't think about it at all (unless it is to help them) whilst chatting to them (and like you say, you see a lot of different visions in a hospital). It is their personality , hobbies, joys that I find enthralling.
Contributor to the solidarity economy | Marketing services for mission-led, purpose-driven organisations
3 年A bit tearful, Regina Ray. Thank you for your humanity.
I’m really moved to read this, Regina, as one who has identified my condition, as defining myself for many years, to be the cover photo here. Flipping glad it’s on LI, could easily burst into tears in person. I’m really glad you can bring your experiences as it makes you extra special with the camera and it shows.
WordPress troubleshooter | Website untangler
3 年Your portraits are stunning, Regina - full of life, charisma & stories. And Berenice Smith looks incredible!