"Real," Transylvania, Louisiana 1999

"Real," a 1999 photograph by Deborah Luster, is part of a larger series of images that explore the lives of young people living in Transylvania, Louisiana. This intimate portrait, reminiscent of a vintage tintype, captures the subject from behind, showcasing a tattoo that reads "REAL" in bold, stylized lettering. The image raises questions about identity, self-expression, and the complexities of growing up in a rural community. Luster's work often confronts social issues and personal narratives through a unique blend of photographic styles.