Elisabeth Van Aalderen had many advantages. She applied to the photography department of the Fotovakschool in Amsterdam after receiving her diploma from the Utrecht School of Arts. She has since worked as an art director and stylist in the fashion industry but ultimately left her position to follow her passion of being a professional photographer. But when Elisabeth was 25 years old, about eight years ago, something happened that attempted to slow her down. Lipidation. a skin condition where white patches appear on the skin due to a lack of melanin.

According to Elisabeth, “I started to get tiny white spots on my left hand,” Bored Panda reported. After a few weeks, the little spots combined into one larger spot.

Most people with this skin condition have these patches all over their bodies.

Further details on elisabethva.com and Instagram

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“After receiving my diagnosis, I began skin therapy, which included lightening therapy, creams, vegetarianism, a gluten-free diet, lots of sun exposure, and yoga. “I tried everything, you name it,” Elisabeth declared. “It didn’t work. I eventually stopped receiving these treatments since I didn’t want to live that kind of life. Since I was unable to change my vitiligo, I began to accept it.”

The photographer thinks there’s a reason why she has vitiligo. “It’s my biggest and most difficult journey of self-acceptance.”

#2

“I am so grateful for the opportunity to take Sharista’s pictures and am in awe of her inner and outer beauty. Such a brave power woman, and such a kind soul. She is an inspiration to a lot of people.

A girl approached her out of the blue a few years ago and remarked, “I really love your skin colour; it’s like your own unique tattoo.” You ought to feel pleased. Elisabeth was motivated by this experience to start a photo series that is only for individuals who are similar to her. In the course of my work as a photographer, I was frequently questioned about my skin. This got me thinking: why not combine my skin condition and my portrait photography experiences? Using photography to capture and honour the vitiligo body is [a fantastic idea]. It is a tribute to its inherent beauty and individuality.”

Elisabeth started a project she named Shades of Pale with the goal of raising awareness of this illness. Approximately 60 million individuals worldwide have vitiligo, but many people are unaware of what it is,” she clarified. “I also want to share the tale of powerful, attractive women who, in this instance, set themselves apart from others by celebrating their appearance. I want to show women who are comfortable in their own skin. I don’t want vitiligo to be perceived as something that is “out of the box.” I think there’s no box when it comes to beauty. Beauty of all kinds must be inclusive. You can define beauty however you see fit.”

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“I have photographed women from all over the world who come in all kinds of shapes and colours,” said Elisabeth. The range of ages is 20 to 50 years old. They saw this experience as more than just a means of artistic expression. It has also proved to be very healing. Ninety percent of them had never appeared in front of a camera. They ventured far beyond their comfort zone. The fact that the photo shoot boosted their confidence makes me feel incredibly fulfilled. It was a process of acceptance and healing for many of the women I have portrayed. Social media has such a large community, which is amazing because it has allowed me to connect with all these lovely people. For me, it has been such a rewarding experience.

and for the people I represented.”

There is currently no recognised treatment or prevention for the illness. Physicians typically offer corticosteroid creams and cosmetics to patients to help with the appearance of damaged skin. Additional popular remedies include lightening the skin in unaffected areas, getting a skin graft, or using UV light therapy to re-pigment the white skin.

#4

The photographer fosters a sense of oneness among those who frequently feel alone by taking pictures of people who have vitiligo. The collection serves as a visual reminder that people with the ailment are not alone, serving as a kind of visual solidarity. The initiative promotes an accepting and understanding community where individuals’ differences are embraced rather than suppressed.

The tales the pictures communicate, in addition to their aesthetic appeal, are what give them their artistic beauty. Every photo tells a story of overcoming hardship, discovering strength in vulnerability, and accepting oneself for who you really are. The photographer’s work demonstrates how even in the most unlikely settings, beauty can be discovered.

Additionally, the initiative acts as a teaching tool, promoting awareness about vitiligo. Since many people are unaware of the illness, these photographs offer a forum for understanding and conversation. The photographer wants to promote a more inclusive concept of beauty and shift attitudes with this project.

#5

The people in these pictures aren’t just patients; they’re shown as unique people with unique personalities and backstories. They are captured in all of their beauty, power, confidence, and elegance by the photographer. Every picture serves as a potent reminder that diversity should be embraced and that beauty has many facets.

The photographer took a risk when she decided to highlight vitiligo, defying conventional beauty standards that frequently marginalize those who don’t match the mold. This series serves as a reminder that standards of beauty are dynamic and subject to change, with initiatives such as this one pushing the bounds of acceptable beauty.

Every image in the series is expertly put together, paying close attention to the backdrop, lighting, and subject’s emotion. Because of the photographer’s creative sense, vitiligo is made to stand out and is now considered a work of art. As a consequence, a series of visually arresting and profound photos is produced.

#6

Marie Lenander was the third person I had the honor of photographing for the Vitiligo project. She flew to Amsterdam to participate in this, and I feel quite honored. The goal of this initiative is to embrace the vitiligo body and its aesthetic while promoting body acceptance and celebrating our individuality.

For me, meeting someone who experienced the same difficulties that I did—that is, a young lady seeking to fit in anywhere in the world—was also quite wonderful. If you were meant to be different, why bother try to fit in?

#7

“I had the honour of taking pictures of Marie Lenander, who was my third subject for the Vitiligo project. She travelled to Amsterdam to participate in this, and I feel incredibly honoured. The goal of this project is to embrace the vitiligo body and its aesthetic while promoting body positivity and celebrating our individuality.

For me, meeting someone who experienced the same difficulties as I did—that is, a young woman trying to fit in anywhere in the world—was also incredibly special. If you were meant to be different, why even try to fit in?”

#8

This creation has an influence that goes beyond its appearance. It takes on more profound topics of acceptability by society, identity, and self-worth. Viewers are prompted by the photographer’s work to consider the diversity of the human experience and to challenge their own ideas of beauty.

Being a part of this project was an empowering experience for many of the subjects. It gave them a stage on which to display their beauty and take back control of their stories. The images serve as a reminder of their bravery and their path to self-acceptance.

The series also emphasizes the photographer’s function as an active participant in the storytelling process, rather than merely an observer. The photographer lends a degree of realism to the project by revealing their own story of having vitiligo. The photographer and the subjects work together to create the final story, with each adding to it.

This project serves as a reminder of the potential of photography as a potent force for social change. The photographer invites viewers to consider beauty from a different perspective with these shots. The show promotes a more accepting society in which individuals’ diversity are not only acknowledged but also honored.

#9

Another aspect of the photographer’s work is advocacy. They are promoting a better knowledge and understanding of vitiligo by drawing attention to it. The show invites viewers to see past appearances and recognize the distinctive beauty in every person.

This endeavor is a breath of fresh air in a world where beauty is frequently defined by constrictive criteria. It serves as a reminder that everyone is not created equal and that it is our differences that define our individuality. The images highlight this individuality, making what could be considered a weakness into a strength.

The link between look and identity is another topic covered in the series. For those who have vitiligo, their skin is an essential component of who they are. This interaction is captured by the photographer, who also demonstrates how the subjects’ perceptions of themselves and others are influenced by their circumstances.

#10

Gorgeous Emilie in front of my camera. I came saw this woman completely accepting her vitiligo physique on Instagram. I was moved by it. A connection is made instantly when two people face similar anxieties and battle together. The great thing about having vitiligo is that it makes you stand out and teaches you to accept your own beauty. Let’s all rejoice about it. —- The main goals of this initiative are to embrace the vitiligo body and its aesthetic, celebrate our individuality, and promote body acceptance.

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“I took pictures of Gaby, my fifth subject, last week. She was a little scared, but I’m really glad she participated in this. We discussed coping strategies for facing the challenge of accepting something beyond your control. Our pride and greatness cannot be taken over by vitiligo; it can only take over our skin! That is the essence of Gaby: an incredible woman.

#12

The initiative is an ode to loving oneself. It inspires vitiligo sufferers to accept and even celebrate their ailment as a unique quality. The images, which depict the individuals in an empowering and attractive light, serve as a visual expression of this message.

The portraits have more depth and character because to the photographer’s use of light and shadow. The way light interacts with vitiligo emphasizes its patterns, creating intricate, one-of-a-kind designs that are exquisite. The end product is a collection of pictures that are both significant and artistic.

#13

You come across folks occasionally who make you happy. Anna took a plane from Budapest to participate in the series Shades of Pale. It’s crazy how similar our vitiligo is. She may be my gorgeous younger sister. I appreciate Anna coming to Amsterdam and becoming a new friend.

#14

This initiative also demonstrates the ability of art to inspire and heal. For several individuals, taking pictures was a life-changing event. It gave them a fresh perspective on who they were and made them see their own attractiveness. The pictures remind us of their fortitude and tenacity.

The idea that beauty is only skin deep is questioned in the series. It demonstrates that individuality is what makes us attractive and that beauty originates from inside. By showcasing this inherent beauty, the images elevate the subjects to the status of artwork.

This initiative is a means of giving back to the community for the photographer. They are contributing to a shift in attitudes and the development of a more inclusive society by utilizing their talents to showcase the beauty of those who have vitiligo. The series was created out of love and a desire to change the world.

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“Occasionally, you come across people who make you happy. Anna took a plane from Budapest to participate in the series Shades of Pale. It’s crazy how similar our vitiligo is. She might be my gorgeous younger sister. I appreciate Anna coming to Amsterdam and becoming a new friend.

Gorgeous Padminie Gajadhar is a very kind and strong woman. I’m very happy that she let me to snap her photo.

#16

“I took pictures of Gaby, my fifth subject, last week. She was a little nervous, but I’m so glad she participated in this. We discussed coping strategies for facing the challenge of accepting something beyond your control. Our pride and awesomeness cannot be taken over by vitiligo; it can only take over our skin! That’s the essence of Gaby: an incredible, freaking woman.

#17

Gorgeous Emilie in front of my camera. I came across this woman completely accepting her vitiligo body on Instagram. It affected me. A connection is made instantly when two people overcome similar fears and struggle together. The powerful thing about having vitiligo is that it makes you stand out and forces you to accept your own beauty. Let’s all rejoice over that. —– The focus of this project is body positivity, celebrating individuality, and accepting the vitiligo body and its aesthetic.

#18

Emilie was the sixth subject I had the honor of photographing for the Vitiligo project. She flew to Amsterdam to participate in this, and I feel quite honored. The main goals of this initiative are to embrace the vitiligo body and its aesthetic, celebrate our individuality, and promote body acceptance.

#19

Natalie was the first person I got to photograph for the Vitiligo project. She travelled to Amsterdam to participate in this, and I feel incredibly honoured. The main goals of this project are to embrace the vitiligo body and its aesthetic, promote body positivity, and celebrate each of our individuality.

For me, meeting someone who experienced the same difficulties as I did—that is, a young woman trying to fit in anywhere in the world—was also incredibly special.

If you were meant to be different, why even try to fit in?”

#20

Natalie was the first person I got to shoot for the Vitiligo project. She flew to Amsterdam to participate in this, and I feel quite honored. The main goals of this project are to embrace the vitiligo body and its aesthetic, promote body acceptance, and appreciate each of our individuality.

For me, meeting someone who experienced the same difficulties that I did—that is, a young lady seeking to fit in anywhere in the world—was also quite wonderful.

If you were meant to be different, why bother try to fit in?

#21

Other vitiligo sufferers might get inspiration from the photos as well. They demonstrate that it is possible to accept the situation and see the good in it. The show exhorts those who have vitiligo to embrace their individuality and be happy with who they are.

The initiative serves as a reminder that beauty is about sticking out rather than inconsistency. The photographer’s work promotes a more inclusive definition of beauty and questions accepted notions of what it is. The event celebrates variety by demonstrating how beauty can be found in a wide range of forms, sizes, and hues.

This initiative has a wide-ranging effect. It creates a more inclusive society in addition to increasing awareness about vitiligo. The images are a potent reminder that everyone of us is attractive in our own unique manner and that it is best to embrace rather than conceal our differences.

The photographer’s creations serve as evidence of how art has the ability to transform lives. They have given people with vitiligo a forum to appreciate their beauty and tell their story through these pictures. The show is a celebration of uniqueness, self-acceptance, and the strength of being who you really are.

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“It was an honour to capture Emilie, my sixth subject for the Vitiligo project, on camera. She travelled to Amsterdam to participate in this, and I feel incredibly honoured. The focus of this project is body positivity, celebrating individuality, and accepting the vitiligo body and its aesthetic.

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“Let me begin by expressing my love for my vitiligo skin and for every one of the special girls I got to pose for pictures with, showcasing their unique spots. But that doesn’t mean we don’t face challenges.

This is the time of year that I struggle the most for myself. As the weather warms, we are exposing more of our skin to the elements. I do feel comfortable in my own skin, but vitiligo can have a profoundly negative impact on one’s life.

#29

“Let me begin by expressing my love for my vitiligo skin and for every one of the special females I got to pose for pictures with, showcasing their distinct features. But that doesn’t imply we don’t face challenges.

This is the time of year that I fight the most for myself. As the weather warms, we are exposing more of our skin to the elements. I do feel comfortable in my own flesh, yet vitiligo may have a profoundly negative impact on one’s life.

#30

Wonderful Maria arrived by plane, travelling from Colorado. For her, vitiligo means “letting go.” In a literal sense, we are bidding adieu to melatonin, but more broadly, we are emancipating ourselves from the concept of beauty.

The goal of this project is to inspire people to be their most genuine selves and to help break down barriers. You can define beauty however you see fit.

#31

Gorgeous Emilie. The great thing about having vitiligo is that it makes you stand out and teaches you to accept your own beauty. Let’s all rejoice about it. —- The main goals of this initiative are to embrace the vitiligo body and its aesthetic, celebrate our individuality, and promote body acceptance.

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The photographer made a point of getting to know each subject well throughout the session to make sure they were at ease and confident. Because of the confidence and connection that this cooperative method fostered, the final photographs are not only exquisite but also incredibly intimate. The photos are made all the more powerful by the people’ distinct personalities coming through.

The project has also spread, encouraging other photographers and artists to investigate issues of inclusion and diversity in their own work. The photographer has paved the ground for more discussions on how society defines and views beauty by bringing vitiligo to light. This initiative is only one illustration of the potent role that art can play as a vehicle for social change.

The project has received a resoundingly favorable reaction, with many individuals expressing their respect for the subjects’ bravery and the photographer’s vision. The images have received a lot of attention on social media, challenging conventional notions of beauty and bringing vitiligo to the attention of people worldwide. People are being encouraged to embrace their individuality and enjoy their differences as a result of the project.

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The initiative has had a significant influence on the subjects themselves in addition to the general public. Many of them said it changed their lives and made them feel better about the way they looked. For a few, it was their first experience feeling genuinely gorgeous. One of the project’s most significant results is this sense of empowerment.

In spite of their appearance, the photographer believes that this project will continue to encourage people to recognize the beauty in both themselves and other people. The photographer hopes to make a more accepting society where people are welcomed for who they are by presenting the beauty of vitiligo. Although the photographer is aware that more work has to be done, this endeavor is a step in the right direction.

Important discussions over media representation have also been ignited by the initiative. Numerous vitiligo sufferers have voiced their dissatisfaction with the absence of favorable portrayals of their illness in the media. This project fills that void by giving vitiligo sufferers a public forum where they may be recognized and honored. With this initiative, the photographer intends to set an example for future inclusive portrayal.

#35

“Indy Stokje, the second subject for the Vitiligo project, came to see me yesterday so we could take pictures. She flew to Amsterdam to participate in this, and I feel quite honored. It was a pleasure getting to know her, and the photo shoot was really laid back and enjoyable. Her confidence really amazed me.

As reputation for the project grows, the photographer keeps pushing for a better understanding and knowledge of vitiligo. They have taken part in panel discussions, exhibits, and interviews, utilizing their platforms to spread acceptance and awareness of the disease. Every part of the project bears the photographer’s dedication to this subject.

The images have been exhibited in galleries and shows all around the world, reaching a large audience and initiating significant discussions on variety and beauty. Numerous individuals have expressed how affected they were by the photographs, and the response from viewers has been overwhelmingly favorable. The initiative has had a profound effect, touching people’s hearts and minds.

The idea that perfection does not determine beauty is one of the project’s main themes. The photographer’s work disproves the notion that having perfect skin is desirable, demonstrating that each person’s blemishes may still have beauty. This message is especially potent in a culture that frequently places a premium on flimsy notions of beauty.

The initiative has also brought attention to how important it is to embrace and appreciate who you are. Many of the participants described how difficult it was at first to accept their vitiligo, but in the end, it was liberating. They were able to share their tales with the world and celebrate their skin by taking part in this initiative. The photographer wants to encourage people to practice self-love like this.

The photographer’s creations serve as a gentle reminder that everyone of us is unique and has a story to tell. The photographer’s project, which emphasizes the beauty of vitiligo, is both aesthetically striking and profoundly significant. This project is an ode to uniqueness, variety, and the strength of self-acceptance.

The research has also contributed to the dismantling of the stigma associated with vitiligo. The photographer is contributing to a shift in public perception of vitiligo by portraying the illness in a good manner. This change in thinking is significant because it fosters a more welcoming and inclusive definition of beauty, which benefits people with the illness as well as society at large.

The photographer challenges social conventions and advocates for positive change via art, and this has been characterized as activism in her work. The photographer is giving voice to individuals who are frequently disregarded or misunderstood by concentrating on a minority population. This initiative is a potent illustration of how art can spur societal change.

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