The Skid Row Women’s Wellness Retreat, hosted by The Los Angeles Community Action Network, transformed their street into a hub of healing, empowerment and community. The retreat offered therapeutic services like massage, yoga, reiki and sound baths, as well as wellness workshops to nurture the mind, body and spirit. Over 200 women attended. The following is just a few of the fierce, diverse women who make the Skid Row community unique. Working independently, I provided creative direction for the shoot, making the most of a small, indoor space to capture the diverse personalities who attended the event. Women were provided with a printed copy of their portrait to take home with them.

Note: Documenting the challenges houseless communities face is critical. However much of my portrait work in Skid Row is intentionally shot in a studio setting to focus on people instead of circumstances. By creating a neutral space to connect, I want people to see the spirit and diversity of the community, finding common ground without judgment.