Annatasia as Photographic Art by David Annis

I’ve photographed many things that are objectively beautiful – birds, flowers, landscapes – but I strongly believe that humans are some of the most beautiful, interesting things that exist. When I photograph people I can create art that I believe is innovative. So that is what I frequently shoot. Then, I take that image and work with it to bring out the color and form in a way that is unique.

Most years, I’ve shot about thirty models for my art but this year, I’ve shot only one: a lovely lady named Annastasia. She was hesitant to participate because of extensive scarring. She asked me about hiding those scars with Photoshop. Instead I used lighting and Photoshop to turn those scars into design elements that add beauty.

Annastasia has had a difficult life: She was born with major medical issues that required many surgeries. She grew up in foster care. She’s been completely independent since she turned 18 and has been attending UNC Chapel Hill, completing three years toward a degree in neuroscience. She has a scholarship that covers some of her expenses but I’ve watched her work hard to supplement that by working in a campus research lab as well as for a food delivery service on the side. Nevertheless, working two part time jobs has not been sufficient to keep her from accumulating significant debt. She’s currently taking the fall semester off in order to pull herself out of debt that she’s accumulated. So, this year I am going to print and frame some of the work that I have done with her and use half of the proceeds to help her pay down the debt so that she can return to school.

People create art for all sorts of reasons. I struggle with the meaning of life and hope to leave the world a better place than it would have been without me. I won’t leave much of a legacy, but I create art to leave beautiful things in the world. Having some of that art help fund Annastasia’s education may improve the world more than another few beautiful art pieces.

I’ve photographed many things that are objectively beautiful – birds, flowers, landscapes – but I strongly believe that humans are some of the most beautiful, interesting things that exist. When I photograph people I can create art that I believe is innovative. So that is what I frequently shoot. Then, I take that image and work with it to bring out the color and form in a way that is unique. 

Working with Annastasia this past year has allowed me to produce some really exceptional work. I hope that the art will enable me to help her a little more than I already have so that she has an easier time completing her education.