I met Autumn in the fall of 2008 shortly after I moved to Ohio. I began photographing her immediately as I was quickly drawn to her story. We connected on the basic fact that we were both women, despite the differences in our ages and circumstances. I was able to understand her adolescent tribulations as I, like many young women, struggled to find my place in the world. Because of this connection and the bond we were able to form, Autumn gave me access to photograph her life.

My aim in this project was to touch on some of the common struggles women face growing up while also looking at the particular circumstances of her life. Autumn lives with her parent and two siblings. She is growing up in the cycle of generational poverty. She is coming of age in an environment that lacks financial and emotional resources. At this vulnerable point in her life, she is seeking love and support but sometimes has a difficult time finding the people who can provide her with the stability that she needs.

*names have been changed to protect her identity.