What is project Beauty?

Project Beauty is a National Campaign started by Cincinnati High School Senior Photographer Thomas Nguyen. Project Beauty began with the goal of redefining what true beauty really is, and how beauty is portrayed on social media. As social media has become increasingly integrated into our daily lives, it's powerful tendency to create an unhealthy perception of what society perceives as beautiful is evident. Teens are inundated on a daily basis with scenes of filtered perfection. The constant comparisons, the feelings of not being "worthy" or "enough", and the pressure to live up to these unattainable and unrealistic beauty standards can cause a lot of harm in a young girls self-image, and self esteem. 

The Class of 2022 RGP Senior Team kick started "Project Beauty" here in Lancaster, PA, hosting the first photoshoot December 12th, 2021. We recognize the importance of bringing attention to the fact that teens do not need to look a certain way in order to be accepted by their peers. Our goal is to bring natural, true beauty to the forefront of everyone’s social media. For girls to embrace the meaning of inner beauty, to see beyond the surface, feel confident, celebrate who they are, and love their perfectly imperfect selves!

How it works?

Project Beauty is open to any high school student grades 9-12th. Our next studio photoshoot is scheduled for Sunday, November 12th, 2023 from 11am to 4pm. This is a no make up, no retouching, 10 minute individual photoshoot, but come with friends and get a few photos with them! We kindly ask for $25 donation fee and you will receive a digital download of your favorite image. 100% of the proceeds will be donated to Girls On The Run of Lancaster & Lebanon Counties. (To learn more about this wonderful organization follow link to their website).

Girls On The Run is a national non-profit organization that "helps strengthen young girls' (ages 8-13) social, emotional, physical and behavioral skills to successfully navigate life experiences. It inspires girls of all abilities to recognize and embrace their inner strength." We are beyond excited to be partnering with Girls on the Run of Lancaster & Lebanon Counties through this project. 

Want IN?

Want to step out of your comfort zone, be part of a larger purpose, and free yourself of the idea of perfection? Fill out the contact form and a take a moment to answer a few questions at the link below, and book a spot. Spots available will be first come, first served.

Once all the photoshoots are completed, we will host a gallery reveal of everyone's printed images and have a "Project Beauty" celebration (date to be determined) at the studio. Digital file of your favorite image will be provided soon after your photoshoot. A printed image will be available to take home with you after the event.

*Please note, you will need your parents permission to sign up and participate*

To be seen is to belong. And in a world of scripted, curated, and photoshopped content, to show up as you are is a revolutionary act. It’s also powerful when others see themselves reflected in you. So, we invite girls from all groups and backgrounds to participate in this project and help us demonstrate the kaleidoscope of beauty in our community.

Click on the logo
learn more about GOTR.

"I think this campaign is really important, especially now when we spend so much time on our phones and social media and constantly compare ourselves to others. Let's remind ourselves that what makes us unique is what makes us beautiful.
When I heard about the Project Beauty national campaign I was so excited to be a part of it. I participated in the Girls on the Run Program during Elementary school. It taught me important life lessons on how to treat others, and how to treat myself with respect."

What Does Ava think of Project Beauty?

"I think true beauty means that someone has a pretty heart. It is so much more important to be caring, nice, and respectful, rather than looks on the outside." Ava W.

"Beautiful" is not what people see when they look at you, but how they feel when you are around. A person that is filled with true beauty will always strive to make others around them feel respected, appreciated, and loved. Although it is fun to dress in an adorable outfit and feel pretty on the outside, there is always more that we can do to brighten someone's day. It is much more rewarding to be complimented on your character than your looks." Ava B.

"Beautiful to me is how sweet and wonderful someone genuinely is, looks go to waste when your heart is not beautiful. True beauty is who you are on inside." Evelyn D.

How would you Define true beauty?

Thank you to our Sponsors