In a world where photo doctoring technology allows us to create perfect and flawless stereotypes, Steve Dean Mendes decided to do the opposite. Steve decided not to retouch his images or use makeup. He only used his studio’s natural light, creating a safe and stripped-back environment for his protagonists. He tries to facilitate an experience of self-discovery and acceptance. He aims to capture raw emotions and present multidimensional stories of love, joy, pain, suffering and abandonment. Inspired by the great Flemish Old masters and the Pre-Raphaelite movement, Mendes intends to show the real human beings behind the artistic subject, bringing to light their souls’ natural fragility and beauty.