AS I AM by Mitzi: Scott, Shirley, & Terri - Special Olympics KS Athletes

AS I AM: SCOTT, SHIRLEY, AND TERRI

Subjects who love themselves freely, aren’t afraid to dance, and embrace themselves for exactly who they are — a photographer’s dream.

This week three Special Olympics athletes, Scott, Shirley, and Terri, laughed and danced in my studio with me. None of my new friends criticized or apologized for anything about their appearance or movements. They only encouraged each other, themselves, and even me the entire time. When we viewed their portraits together I asked how the images made them feel.

“Strong,” Shirley told us.

“Awesome,” said Terri in her quiet but deliberate voice.

“Wonderful, “ Scott said, “Makes my dream come true. I hope these are in magazines.”

I jumped at the opportunity to photograph these three Athletes (who have a combined 90 years of participation in the Special Olympics, by the way) because I knew they’d embody the spirit of AS I AM raw portraits: self acceptance. But I wasn’t prepared for the joy they’d leave with me, and I cried when they left the studio because my heart was just so full. Olivia told me how joyful and encouraging they were, but it wasn’t until I got to hug each one of them, dance and laugh with them, and then simply watch them shine as their brightest truest selves that I really understood what she meant.

Scott, Shirley, and Terri, thank you for being your youest you in front of my lens and giving me the gift of love. You heal the dark parts of our world just by being you.

Sincerely,

Mitzi

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AS I AM by Mitzi Starkweather
No hair/makeup
No photoshop
No new clothes
Hold & Behold your one magnificent self

NOW BOOKING SPRING/SUMMER 2025 in Joplin and Kansas City, MO