In this stunning series, I (photographer Angelica Pasquali) supported women of color as they revealed their natural skin and hair with grace, pride, and strength. Seven women were surrounded with delicate baby breath to contrast with their different ranges of skin color. Although media improves on properly representing beauty of all varieties, women of color still face societal obstacles such as whitewashing. One woman, Ashley Mathew, expresses that, “my own family members put natural mixes onto my skin and try to use bleaching creams.” Testimonies like this let us know how women are still effected by morphed ideals of beauty. To truly set a realistic example of beauty, stretch marks, beauty marks, and “imperfections” were not edited at all. Through this photo-shoot, all the women felt empowered and naturally beautiful, as they truly are. Ms. Pasquali and all the women hope that IN BLOOM will encourage others to love their bodies as it is.

More info: lunaapphotography.com

Ashley: “All my life, I’ve been told “You’re too dark” and “stay out of the sun.” All of my family was lighter skinned so as a child I felt out of place and ugly. I’ve had my own family members put natural mixes onto my skin and try to use bleaching creams. I’ve felt terrible about my dark, or brown, skin until I came to Ramapo and found women who were embracing it. Whether or not I have stretch marks or blemishes or dark skin, whether I’m bigger or smaller than the next woman, this is the skin I’m in. This is my body. This is my home. And if you’re not happy in your house, you won’t be happy anywhere. I made the change to embrace every aspect of me that I thought was my flaw, and made it my best features. This shoot empowered me even more to feeling the way I do today. Thank you.”

Shantell

Yashanique

Juliette: “My favorite part of this shoot was when I finally got to see everyones’ photos. There is so much grace and joy in these pictures!”

Charlene

Ogechi

Jordan

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