Project Beauty: Redefining Senior Portraits

As an OKC senior photographer, I have the privilege of capturing some of the most exciting and transformative moments in a teen’s life. This year, I finally made a long-time dream come true by hosting my very first Project Beauty session. I’ve always admired this initiative and wanted to bring it to my senior clients, and I’m so thrilled I was able to make it happen. Project Beauty is a powerful initiative designed to redefine how beauty is portrayed on social media and in senior photography. In a world saturated with filters, airbrushing, and unattainable standards, Project Beauty offers a refreshing perspective: true beauty is authentic, unedited, and uniquely yours.

The Mission Behind Project Beauty

The heart of Project Beauty lies in empowering high school seniors to embrace their natural selves. The mission is simple yet profound: photograph seniors with no makeup and no retouching. The result? Stunning black-and-white images that celebrate individuality and confidence. These sessions are a reminder that beauty is not about perfection but about being comfortable in your own skin.

In today’s world, where social media often presents an unrealistic portrayal of beauty, teens are bombarded with messages that they need to look a certain way to be valued. Project Beauty pushes back against these messages. It’s a space for seniors to show up just as they are and discover the confidence that comes from embracing their natural beauty.

What Makes Project Beauty Special

Unlike traditional senior photography sessions, Project Beauty strips away the extras. There are no professional hair and makeup artists, no elaborate outfits, and no heavy retouching. Instead, we focus on each individual. It’s amazing to see how these teens’ personalities shine through in such a raw and real way.

During the session, we keep the atmosphere light, fun, and supportive. These sessions are about more than just pictures; they’re about creating an experience that leaves these young women feeling confident and proud of who they are.

The Power of Black-and-White Photography

For this session, I chose to present the images in black and white. There’s something timeless and powerful about monochrome photography. Without the distraction of color, the focus shifts entirely to the subject—their expressions, their strength, and their natural beauty. Black and white allows us to highlight every detail, such as a genuine smile.

These images aren’t about meeting a standard of beauty; they’re about celebrating authenticity. Each photo tells a story, showcasing what makes each teen unique. Whether it’s a bold laugh, a thoughtful gaze, or a quiet moment, these raw portraits remind us all that true beauty comes from within.

Why Project Beauty Matters

As an Oklahoma photographer, I’ve seen firsthand the pressures that high school seniors face. From social media trends to peer comparisons, it’s easy to feel like you’re not enough. Project Beauty aims to change that narrative. By stepping in front of the camera without makeup or retouching, these teens are making a powerful statement: they are enough, just as they are. It’s incredibly rewarding to know that this initiative is making a difference not just in how these teens see themselves, but in how they carry themselves in the world.

An Invitation to Join the Movement

To my fellow high school seniors in OKC and beyond: I invite you to be part of this empowering experience. Whether you’re used to being in front of the camera or this is your first time, Project Beauty is for everyone. It’s a chance to celebrate your unique story, your natural beauty, and your inner strength.

And to the parents: this is more than a photo session. It’s an opportunity to show your teen that they don’t need to change a single thing about themselves to be worthy, valued, and beautiful.

Calling All Current Juniors!

Are you ready to join something truly special? Applications to be part of the BPP Senior Team will open soon, and we’d love to have you! Don’t miss out on the chance to be a part of this exciting experience next year. Join the VIP list today by sending me a DM on Instagram with the word “VIP,” and you’ll be the first to know when applications go live. Let’s have fun together!

Take a look at some of the other fun sessions we have done this year!

“Senior Team + Mini Highland Cows”

“Senior Team Session at a Wildflower Field”

“Fall Senior Event”

“Christmas Fun!”

“New Year’s Session”

*Project Beauty was started by Cincinnati based senior photographer Thomas Nguyen.