The increased threat to transgender rights in the United States, among other historically oppressed identities, calls into question the importance of “being seen” by oneself and others, as well as related notions of safety and acceptance when done so.

When identities are politicized, what role and value does their visibility hold? “Being Seen” is a collaborative film-based documentary photography series depicting a tender stage of Tricia H’s gender transition journey. Photographed in Southeast Michigan, the work highlights daily gender-affirming moments, exploring documentary photography and portraiture as collaborative mediums, speaking to the opportunity for photography to be an avenue for processing and agency.

Upon seeing the photographs, Tricia expressed that her first significant experience in front of the lens as a trans woman was one where she felt safe, visible, and seen. Photography emerges as a path to slow down, to intentionally shift attention in a way that meets someone on their terms.