(Polaroid SX 70 -series)

As a white mother of two adopted children of color, I have experienced prejudice firsthand. Sometimes it appears in subtle remarks or behavior from strangers, sometimes in painfully direct ways. Reactions shaped by ignorance or disapproval toward a family that does not fit what some people consider “normal.” As if love should only exist within what is familiar or socially accepted.

With this project, I want to show that prejudice does not stand in the way of love. People can love one another regardless of color, gender, age, race, or religion. By sharing these images, I hope to encourage people to look beyond their assumptions and become more open and compassionate toward others.

For this series I chose to work with vintage Polaroid SX-70 cameras. These old cameras are unpredictable, you never fully know how an image will turn out, just as you never know how people will respond.

The Polaroids were scanned, but I intentionally left the scratches, marks, and imperfections untouched. They reflect the emotional damage that can be caused by repeated exposure to prejudice, bluntness, and disapproval.

This project is made possible by “Het Steunfonds Freelance Fotografen” (Support Fund for freelance Photographers)