Renowned Portrait Photographer Ryan Pfluger opens up about the unique struggles faced in his impressive career as a result of the "Queer Photographer" label placed on him, showing up as a true ally for all diverse artists in his field, and his continuing fight for the value of "the full spectrum of what I bring to the table".

Ryan is a born and raised New York photographer with an MFA in Photo, Video & Related Media from the School of Visual Arts. Captivated by nostalgia, their work often deals with recreating memories, memorializing objects and how sexuality and gender influences image making. Exploring what portraiture means presently in our culture, their photographs deal with the subtlety of body posture, the gaze and the role of self-portraiture. Most importantly, as an advocate, they allow their subjects to feel present and seen. An introvert at heart, but photography has allowed them to feel comfortable. Ryan currently resides in Los Angeles with their dog Sarah Connor.

Ryan's TEDx Talk - Photography As A Salve For Loneliness