On Beauty

Award-winning fashion photographer Rick Guidotti left the fashion industry to found Positive Exposure, a nonprofit outfit that seeks to counter the emotional pain and social hurdles of living with genetic and physical differences by changing public perceptions of beauty. On Beauty profiles Guidotti and features two of his subjects: Sarah, a young woman with Sturge-Weber syndrome (leaving a birthmark on her face), and Jayne, a Kenyan with albinism. Both were ostracized as children, but their experiences transcend loneliness and humiliation (Jayne speaks of witch doctors in neighboring Tanzania seeking albino body parts to use in rituals, which has led to the kidnapping and murder of albinos, who are perceived as less than human). Guidotti describes the genesis of his project: a chance meeting with an albino woman that led him to research the subject and begin photographing people like her. Discovering horrific medical photographs of children that focused on abnormalities, Guidotti expanded his scope to include individuals of all ages and types, and soon parents sought him out for his ability to portray their kids simply as loveable children. Guidotti's work not only punctures social norms, it also allows his subjects to see themselves as beautiful. The film captures Guidotti's compassion and enthusiasm, following him on visits with Sarah and Jayne and their families, while also taking viewers into the studio for his fun (and glamorous) photo shoots. Upbeat and inspiring, this is highly recommended. Aud: C, P. (M. Puffer-Rothenberg)