We all have an image of ourselves that we strive to achieve. In our society, it often feels as though we must make a definitive choice about who we are—and with that choice comes the responsibility to maintain it. This can lead to a sense of being overwhelmed, prompting us to wonder whether this is truly what we had in mind or if we lost our way somewhere.

At a certain point, the expectations we place on ourselves become the expectations others place on us. Confusion follows, anxiety rises, and our self-image becomes distorted. It can feel as though we are drowning in that confusion.

This series of photographs captures those feelings. By photographing each individual and then re-photographing their portraits in water to distort their features, I create an impression of a person drowning in self-doubt as they struggle to find their place in society.

8×10 fiber-based prints.