A camera takes image data from the sensor and saves it on the memory card. This uncompressed and unedited data is called a RAW image.

Because our photo shoots were cut short “out of an abundance of caution”—and now the safer-at-home quarantine—we didn’t get a chance to start editing our work in preparation for what would have been an April 17th Gallery Night.

Each intern, however, has chosen three representative photos from each photo shoot and is presenting them to you in their RAW unedited format. During this time when everyone feels vulnerable, the interns have agreed to be vulnerable as well: it’s not always easy sharing a piece of art work before it’s “done.” In these almost 80 photos, you might notice some underexposure or pesky shadows, a door open in the background or an assistant’s hand reaching into a corner. There’s a certain charm, though, in knowing that each of these images represents a wonderful potential—and are beautiful in their own right!

We’ll eventually open our exhibit at the LGBT Community Center, where the photos will find a permanent home, but for now, welcome to our process.

Part of our process was having Vaughan Larsen—a queer photographer—visit us and share their work and perspective . . . and then be our first model! During the shoots, Vaughan gave the interns advice and support that truly helped them build confidence over the next few weeks. Therefore, we begin with a special set of 12 photos from Vaughan’s shoots, which each of our four interns participating in.