For many transgender individuals, the journey to live authentically begins in childhood and is often marked by an ongoing struggle to reconcile their true gender identity with the sex they were assigned at birth.
This series of photographs portrays people from diverse gender communities, highlighting their personal experiences and challenges. Each portrait is accompanied by a quote from our conversations, offering insight into the realities they face, their courage, and the profound significance of the steps they take in their pursuit of living as their true selves. To protect these people from the risks of potential persecution in Russia, their names have been intentionally omitted. The omission, however, does not diminish their presence or impact. Rather, it invites the viewer to look beyond identity markers and consider the universal aspects of their journey — the desire to be seen, understood, and accepted for who they are.
2013
Her father accepted her as his daughter only after her first operation and supported her throughout the subsequent transition.
"I endured humiliation and insults from family and friends, but it didn't break me. In the end, I earned their respect and a love stronger than before. They realized that, no matter who their child is, the worst thing would be to lose him.
Now, I'm happy. I love them, and I love life. Waking up each day with peace in my heart, a smile, and a deep breath is the best feeling in the world."
Works as an office manager, lives in a civil marriage with a transgender woman.
"From childhood I remember only pain, loneliness and hopelessness. The most vivid moment of my transition was probably after the surgery, it was spring and I finally liked my reflection. I even danced in front of the mirror."
Production Coordinator. Passionate about cycling. Lives in a civil marriage with a transgender man.
When she was 36 years old she got an operation and changed her documents.
"Now, I'm free. I don't have to hide my quirks anymore. I'm not ashamed of myself: I'm a woman!"
Came to Moscow from southern Russia, works as a courier but aspires to be a singer.
In his hometown, he had to completely hide his appearance out of fear of being harmed or even killed.
Working in IT as a programmer. She moved from northern Russia to Saint Petersburg because her family and friends neither understood nor accepted her. She still has male documents.
"I finally found myself and gained the freedom to express who I truly am. When you accept yourself, everything in life changes. You gain purpose and discover inner harmony. A huge burden of worries and internal conflicts is lifted, along with the rigid self-control imposed for the sake of others.
Life isn't just about the past-new friends and people will come along, and they'll see you in a completely different light. A person shapes their own future."
Started hormone therapy one year ago without any specialist support. His roommate reported the hormone shots stored in his personal closet to the administration, and he was forced to move to the women's room.
"The most remarkable part of my transition was the first shot! I did it so awkwardly that it ached for a week - I was really scared. To be honest, I'm fed up with constant explanations and secrets. It's driving me crazy. I'm losing heart, but I have to see this through to the end."
Editor, consultant.
"The transition process took about five years. It could have been done faster, but I wanted everything to be by the rules. You should never give up, even when the prospects are unclear and the horizon is hidden behind the forest.
Gender transition isn't an attempt to shock people or draw attention. It's a strong desire to be oneself. You can't stop someone from trying to survive."
Started hormone therapy at 20.
"I sometimes wish I had started earlier, during my teenage years, as it might have led to different results.
I cook delicious food, program, and sometimes watch Chinese animated porn. Occasionally, I buy gadgets or clothes, and they're not always perfect. I often discover flaws, try to understand the issue, and, if possible, fix or improve the item. Some people don't even consider that things can be improved-they just accept them as they are. Let's just say, I'm not afraid of 'voiding the warranty.' It wasn't always like that, but now I'm not afraid to change. I believe a lot can be changed."
He became a drag queen to earn a living. While he tries not to let his stage persona affect his everyday life, he has noticed that his habits, gestures, and mannerisms have become more feminine.
Previously worked as a train driver.
"A few years ago, I realized that it's impossible to run away from yourself. I already have two grown children (a 19-year-old son and a 10-year-old daughter), so I decided to quit the job I hated and finally live the life I'd dreamed of for so long."
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