Elizabeth smart
photographed in New York City
Elizabeth Smart is known widely for her abduction at age 14 and subsequent rescue after 9 months of abuse by her captor, which catapulted her into the national spotlight. Perhaps less known is how she has miraculously channeled her experience with grace and courage to now help other young women avoid falling prey to sex predators, cyber-bullying and human trafficking.
I caught up with Elizabeth during a tour in NYC and we decided upon a simple, spare studio with expansive natural light for the shoot, which would provide images for her forthcoming book and other promotional needs. This was kind of a ‘coming out’ party for this still-recovering and understandably camera-shy young woman. I wanted to show her the utmost respect and not overwhelm her with too many variations and lighting setups, but rather give her space to ease into the shoot, to find comfort and to simply be. And she responded by bringing forth her beautiful inner heroine.
“The human spirit is resilient. God made us so. He gave us the ability to forgive. To leave our past behind. To look forward instead of back.”
