In Plain Sight

In a culture obsessed with perfection, these portraits ask, “What happens when nothing is hidden and being seen becomes an act of courage?”
Photographed at close range with no makeup, no retouching, and no distance between subject and viewer, these portraits explore vulnerability, presence, and the strength found in being seen exactly as we are.

Ongoing series; 2017 to present

Tanvi M _ Toronto Based Commercial Photographer_ NoMakeup00001
Tanvi M _ Toronto Based Commercial Photographer_ NoMakeup00002
Tanvi M _ Toronto Based Commercial Photographer_ NoMakeup00003
Tanvi M _ Toronto Based Commercial Photographer_ NoMakeup00004
Tanvi M _ Toronto Based Commercial Photographer_ NoMakeup00006
Tanvi M _ Toronto Based Commercial Photographer_ NoMakeup00007
Tanvi M _ Toronto Based Commercial Photographer_ NoMakeup00008
Tanvi M _ Toronto Based Commercial Photographer_ NoMakeup00005

The Support Series

The Support Series is a portrait project centered around a simple question: What support would make a difference in your life?
Created in partnership with Lift: The Bra Project and sponsored by High Road Human Capital, the project features women from organizations across Toronto, including Elizabeth Fry Toronto, Jessie’s Centre, and The 519. The project creates space for participants to share their experiences of giving, receiving, and seeking support. Their answers speak to the importance of community, opportunity, stability, and care.

Maria Clara

I'm from Brazil, where I worked as a social worker supporting the LGBT community and advocating for human rights. From the moment I arrived in Canada, people helped me find my way and start over. Canada has given me the freedom to be who I am, and I'm grateful every day to be here. My goal is to become a social worker again so I can give back and support others the way I was supported.

Lori Murray

I struggled with addiction for 30 years. Seven years ago, I found support through Elizabeth Fry and began attending therapy groups. There, I met people who listened without judgment and helped me start believing in myself again. Today, I'm nearly seven years clean and give back as a peer leader, supporting others by sharing my own experiences. Recovery is one thing, but healing relationships takes time. I'm proud of how far I've come, and I hold onto the belief that tomorrow can always be better. If my story helps someone feel less alone, it's worth sharing.

Elonia Munro

Living with Lupus and the side effects of treatment had a profound impact on my mental health. When I struggled, many people around me didn't understand what I was going through, but Elizabeth Fry listened and helped me find the support I needed. Today, I share my story to let others know they are not alone. Through speaking engagements and community work, I hope to reduce stigma around mental health and encourage people to keep asking for help. Recovery is easier when we feel seen, supported, and connected to others who understand.

Ziva Gorani

I am a Syrian trans woman, a survivor of war and sexual violence, and someone living with depression as a result of trauma. Despite everything, I believe in the strength and resilience of our communities. One of the greatest lessons I've learned is the importance of support and belonging. As I continue to heal, I hope to help others do the same. The support that would make the biggest difference now is finding meaningful work that recognizes my skills, experience, and potential.

Lexi Leblanc

There needs to be more funding for mental health awareness and education. Mental health shouldn't be part of the conversation just one day a year—it should be discussed openly and regularly. There's still a stigma around mental health, and many people don't understand what others may be going through. I believe mental health education should be taught in schools, just like sex education, so people can recognize the signs, support one another, and know when to seek help.

Monalisa

I came to Canada eight months ago to build a new future. The 519 welcomed me and gave me an opportunity to work, which helped me feel at home. My dream is to become a model and inspire others. The support that would make the biggest difference is guidance—someone to help me understand the steps to get where I want to go.