The Things I Find Beautiful

In our society today, many of us face what I like to call “dark patches of life.” These “patches” may last for a few days, months, and maybe longer than a year, and can greatly influence how we work, how we live, and how we see the world. I’ve noticed that students in high school, especially, go through these “patches” more frequently. It may be because they are worried about their looks, social status, and even grades, and these things that may seem insignificant can build up and cause a “patch” to occur. In light of Suicide Prevention & Awareness Month, I thought it would be perfect to go around and lend a helping hand to those I feel need one. Therefore, I took it upon myself to compliment some students (and teachers!), to ensure that I could, at the very least, make their day a tad better. In my slideshow, I photograph people before and after I tell them what my project is called: The Things I Find Beautiful.
I was inspired to do this by Chicago student Shea Glover’s video social experiment, “People react to being called beautiful” , because I believe that each person on Earth has a reason to smile, even if it’s for a few seconds. I wanted to see my peers’ reactions, and have the opportunity to tell them they’re beautiful. I expected this project to go somewhat smoothly, with willing people and jolly smiles. What I found when taking pictures were that some subjects refused to have their picture taken, until I insisted, and even then stood awkwardly in front of the camera. It wasn’t until I told them the name of my project that they flashed a smile in place of their previous awkward one. One thing I did not expect from the project is that some students (not shown due to lack of “after” picture) refused to smile, even after several kind comments regarding their appearance, personality and general persona. It came as a slight shock, but I realized after a handful of attempts that these people may not believe the compliments given to them, or don’t find them genuine.

Regardless, I still found each subject equally captivating and beautiful. Although I cannot show every student and staff member on campus, if it were in my comfort zone and capability, I absolutely would. Go out and tell someone you love them today, tell them that they are worth it, and that they are beautiful. You might just get a brilliant smile in return.

jeniffer velazquez photo, bishop union high school, suicide prevention month, bronco roundup photos, student pictures