When Elisabeth Van Aalderen was 25, she noticed several little white spots on her skin that eventually grew into one larger spot- it turned out to be vitiligo. It now covers 60% of the photographer’s body.
“When I was diagnosed, I began skin therapy, which included creams, lightening therapy, a gluten-free diet, a vegetarian diet, no sun, a lot of suns, and yoga.” “You name anything, I tried it,” Elizabeth explained in an interview with Bored Panda. When she discovered that no therapies were working, she discontinued them and accepted her condition. “I couldn’t alter the fact that I have vitiligo, so I began to accept it,” the photographer explained.
Elizabeth began a picture project called Shades of Pale a time ago, in which she shoots other ladies with the same problem. She was inspired after a girl approached her and stated her skin resembled a “unique tattoo.” “During my day-to-day work as a photographer, I was frequently asked about my skin. This prompted the photographer to ask, “Why not combine my two experiences, photography and my skin condition?” She thinks photography is a great way to chronicle and celebrate the vitiligo body. “It’s a testament to its beauty and distinctiveness,” Elizabeth explains. “Vitiligo affects around 60 million individuals worldwide, although many people are unaware of what it is. “I also want to depict the tale of strong women who enjoy their beauty, which in this instance sets them apart from others,” Elizabeth remarked. “I want to represent ladies who are comfortable in their own flesh.” I don’t want people to think about vitiligo as something “out of the ordinary.” When it comes to beauty, I feel there is no such thing as a box. All forms of beauty must be inclusive. Beauty may be anything you make it.”
Elisabeth has shot ladies of different shapes and sizes from all over the world, according to Elizabeth. “I want to represent ladies who are comfortable in their own flesh.” I don’t want people to think about vitiligo as something “out of the ordinary.” When it comes to beauty, I feel there is no such thing as a box. All forms of beauty must be inclusive. Beauty may be anything you make it.”
Elisabeth has shot ladies of different shapes and sizes from all over the world, and she claims that the experience was not only a creative outlet for them but also quite healing. “Nearly 90% of them had never been in front of a camera.” They truly pushed themselves beyond their comfort zone. “It feels incredibly wonderful to know that the session helped them gain confidence,” adds the photographer. “It was a journey of healing and acceptance for many of the ladies I’ve depicted.” It’s amazing that social media has such a large community, allowing me to connect with all of these lovely people. It’s been a wonderful trip for both myself and the characters I’ve played.
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“She couldn’t be more proud of her spots. She is such an inspiration “.
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“I was so honored to photograph Sharista, and I can’t get over how stunning she is on the inside and out. Such a sweet soul and a fearless powerhouse. She is an inspiration to many people out there “.
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“I photographed Emely today for the vitiligo project. She is a stunning and self-assured Cape Verdean woman!”
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“She couldn’t be more proud of her markings. “She is such an inspiration.”
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“I had the honor of photographing Marie Lenander, my third subject for the vitiligo project.” I’m really grateful she came all the way to Amsterdam to be a part of this. This initiative is all about celebrating our individuality and embracing the vitiligo body and its aesthetic.
It was also really special for me to be up close and personal with someone who has the same challenges as myself and many other young ladies throughout the world trying to fit in. Why should you desire to fit in if you were created to be different?
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“Emilie, the lovely lady in front of my camera. I discovered her on Instagram, completely enjoying her vitiligo physique. It made me feel something. When you share the same hardships and conquer the same anxieties, you instantly form a relationship. Vitiligo is a strong condition; it makes you stand out and encourages you to appreciate your individual beauty. Let us all rejoice in it. — This initiative is all about celebrating our individuality and accepting the vitiligo body and its aesthetic.”
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“Such a kind and powerful woman, Padminie Gajadhar.” “I’m so grateful she let me photograph her.”
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“Sometimes you meet folks who make your heart sing. Anna traveled from Budapest to participate in the Shades of Pale series. It’s incredible how identical our vitiligo is. She might be my gorgeous younger sister. Thank you for visiting Amsterdam and meeting a new friend, Anna.
#14
“When coffee enhances your skin.”
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“Padminie Gajadhar is a beautiful, kind, and strong woman. I’m grateful she let me photograph her.”
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“Gaby, my fifth subject, was photographed last week. I’m very grateful she took part in this, even though she was a little scared. We spoke about how to deal with the difficulties of accepting something over which you have no control. Vitiligo can take over our skin, but not our pride or greatness! Gaby is all about being an amazing frickin’ lady.”
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“Emilie, my sixth subject for the vitiligo project, was a pleasure to photograph. I’m really grateful she came all the way to Amsterdam to be a part of this. This initiative is all about celebrating our individuality and accepting the vitiligo body and its aesthetic.”
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“Sometimes you meet folks who make you happy. Anna traveled from Budapest to participate in the Shades of Pale series. It’s incredible how identical our vitiligo is. She might be my gorgeous younger sister. Thank you for visiting Amsterdam and making a new friend, Anna.”
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“She is such a powerful woman. Thank you for allowing me to photograph you.”
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“You are stunning, Sara.” A biology student who enjoys rowing. I’m really grateful she agreed to take part in this.”
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Let me begin by expressing that I adore my vitiligo skin and all of the amazing women I had in front of my camera to celebrate their spots. But that doesn’t imply we never have difficulties.
This time of year is the most difficult for me. As the weather warms, we expose more of our skin to the elements. I am comfortable in my own skin, but vitiligo is a life-changing disorder that can flip your world upside down.”
