Since my daughter’s birth in 2008, I've been hyperaware of how harsh the world can be on the self-esteem of young girls. I was so sure my confident toddler’s outgoing nature would sustain her through the turbulent teen years. But her adolescence struck at the same time as the pandemic, and together they resulted in endless hours on social media. I’m not sure which I blame more, but together they seemed to take a toll on her self-perception.

Around this time, a 12-year-old named Emy came to my studio with her godmother. Emy had recently developed an interest in being a television extra and made an appointment with me for headshots. Emy’s godmother shared that just like my daughter, Emy was struggling with self- confidence. After her classic headshots were done, I offered her a luxury portrait experience as an experiment. Knowing that many of the adults I’ve photographed have their confidence transformed by our sessions, I wondered how Emy might react.

The results were stunning and generated a huge response on social media. In fact, one of Emy’s portraits was selected and shared by the highly discerning online outlet Photo Vogue Italia. A timid 12-year-old entered my studio unsure if she would be accepted as a television extra and left feeling as though her image rivaled those found in the pages of Vanity Fair.

The Tween Esteem Project was born.

After a year of photographing young people of all genders and gender identities, I am thrilled to present photography featuring 11 tweens and teens in this first issue of Glow. This digital magazine, which I plan to publish annually, celebrates the power and unique beauty that resides in all young people.

I was honored to be behind the lens for these memorable sessions. Thank you to the families who trusted me with these portraits and support the vision of growing the self-esteem of all young people.

-Josh

Pictured below with daughter, Kate, in 2012