Portraits of Resistance: Documenting Strength in the Face of Erasure

Concept: Portraits of Resistance

In a time when trans and nonbinary people are being systematically erased from public discourse, Portraits of Resistance was born out of urgency and love. When Trump declared there are "only two genders," it wasn’t just rhetoric. It was an attempt to invalidate entire communities. This project exists as a direct response to that erasure. Through powerful portraits and recorded stories, it affirms the truth that gender is not binary. It is a testament to visibility, resilience, and the joy of living authentically.

Execution: A Space for Truth and Joy

The idea came together organically, sparked by a friend offering me space to shoot in Industry City. The studio had everything I needed, light, energy, room to create. I put out a call online and organized sessions through Dubsado, which streamlined sign-ups, emails, and logistics. On the day of the shoot, each participant began with a 20-minute recorded interview about their experiences, their processing, and what brings them joy, because joy is also resistance. We followed with portraits that felt raw, intimate, and deeply personal. The energy in the room was undeniable. Everyone was there not just for themselves, but for one another, for community, for the movement, for history.

Team:

Creative Director & Photographer - Caitlyn Gaurano

Videographer - Michael Andrade

Photography Assistant - Damora Regala