Jay

An intimate portrait series exploring the daily life, personal struggles, and quiet moments of Jay. The images seek to transcend typical documentary portraiture by focusing on subtle gestures, light play, and environment.

This project started naturally, without a plan. While living together, I found myself documenting Jay’s transition and growth over two years, capturing his journey into adulthood. Jay moved into our shared flat in mid-2021. At the time, he was 19, fresh out of high school, and had just left South Africa to start a new chapter in Hungary. I was the first person he came out to as transgender since moving to Budapest. From that moment, I found myself witnessing and capturing his transition over the next two years, a process that became the focus of an unexpected photography project.

Jay’s willingness to bare his soul in front of the camera allowed me to forge a deep connection with the project, and I was particularly drawn to capturing his vulnerability. His presence in my life has brought new insights, especially regarding the fluidity and resilience of self-expression. For me, Jay epitomizes the concept that “trans joy is resistance,” boldly defying societal norms in a country known for its conservatism.