Elisabeth Van Aalderen was in a strong position. She applied to the photography program at the Fotovakschool in Amsterdam after receiving her diploma from the Utrecht School of Arts. She has since worked as a stylist and art director in the fashion sector, although she finally left her position to pursue her career as a professional photographer. When Elisabeth was 25 years old, though, something happened that attempted to slow her down. Vitiligo. a skin disorder wherein a melanin deficiency results in the development of white spots on the skin.
The majority of persons who have this skin ailment have these spots all over their body.
More info: elisabethva.com | Instagram
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“She couldn’t wear her spots with more pride. Such an inspiring woman”
“I began skin therapy after being diagnosed, including creams, lightening therapy, a gluten-free diet, a vegetarian diet, no sun exposure, excessive sun exposure, and yoga. Whatever it was, I gave it a shot “said Elisabeth. “Everything failed. I finally gave up on these therapies since I didn’t want to live in that kind of a life. I came to accept the reality that I have vitiligo because I couldn’t change it.”
The photographer thinks there is a purpose for why she has vitiligo. It’s been the longest and toughest path for me to accept who I am.
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“I feel so incredibly honored to photograph Sharista and just cant get over how beautiful she is, inside and out. Such a kind soul and a fearless power woman. She inspires so many out there with”
A girl approached her out of the blue a few years ago and commented, “I truly adore your skin tone, it’s like your own unique tattoo. You ought to be proud. Elisabeth was motivated by this experience to produce a photo collection that is exclusively for others just like her. “In the course of my daily work as a photographer, I frequently had inquiries about my skin. The thought of using these two experiences—portrait photography and my skin condition—got me thinking. Photographic documentation of the vitiligo body is [a good approach to do so]. It is a tribute to its distinctiveness and natural beauty.”
Elisabeth started a project called Shades of Pale with the goal of raising awareness of this illness. There are many people who are unaware of vitiligo, which affects about 60 million people worldwide, she said. “I also want to portray the tale of strong, attractive women who are proud of their appearance since it sets them apart from others in this situation. I want to show women that are confident in their skin. I don’t want vitiligo to be perceived as being “out of the box.” I think there is no set definition of beauty. Beauty of all kinds must be inclusive. Whatever you want it to be, beauty can be.”
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“Today I photographed Emely for the vitiligo project. She is such a stunning and confident Cape Verdean woman!”
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“I had the privilege to photograph my 3rd subject of the vitiligo project Marie Lenander. I feel so honored she traveled to Amsterdam to take part of this. This project is all about body positivity and to celebrate our uniqueness and embracing the vitiligo body and its esthetic.
For me it was also very special to get up close and personal with someone who had the same struggles as me, and as many young woman all over the world who are trying to fit in. Why should you even want to fit in, if you were born to be unique?”
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“She couldn’t wear her spots with more pride. Such an inspiring woman”
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“Beautiful Padminie Gajadhar such a gracious and powerful woman. I am so grateful she let me take her picture”
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“When coffee compliments your skin.”
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“Sometimes you meet people who fill your hart with joy. Anna flew in from Budapest to join the shades of pale series. Our vitiligo is so similar, it’s insane. She could be my younger beautiful sister. Thanks Anna for traveling to Amsterdam and making a new friend”
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“Last week I photographed my 5th subject: Gaby. I feel so honored she took part of this, although she was a little bit nervous. We talked about how to cope with the struggle to accept something you can’t control. Vitiligo can take over our skin, but can’t take over our pride and awesomeness! That’s what’s Gaby all about: an awesome freakin’ woman”
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“Pretty Emilie in front of my camera. I discovered her on Instagram, totally accepting her vitiligo-afflicted body. I was moved. A connection is immediately formed when two people face the same obstacles and conquer the same fears. Vitiligo is a really strong condition that makes you stand out and forces you to appreciate your individual beauty. Let’s all rejoice about that. —- This project is all about accepting the vitiligo body and its aesthetic, as well as body positivity and celebrating our individuality.”
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“Such a strong woman. Thank you Anna to take your picture”
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“Beautiful Padminie Gajadhar such a gracious and powerful woman. I am so grateful she let me take her picture”
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“Sometimes you meet people who fill your hart with joy. Anna flew in from Budapest to join the shades of pale series. Our vitiligo is so similar, it’s insane. She could be my younger beautiful sister. Thanks Anna for traveling to Amsterdam and making a new friend”
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“I had the privilege to photograph my 6th subject of the vitiligo project Emilie. I feel so honored she traveled to Amsterdam to take part of this. This project is all about body positivity and to celebrate our uniqueness and embracing the vitiligo body and its esthetic”
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“Beautiful Sara. A biology student with a passion for rowing. I feel so honored she take part of this”
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“My favorite girl from Paris. Emilie Bouchet”
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