Sara Messinger

b. 1998 US 

Based in New York (United States of America) 

Growing up, I always felt this pressure to conform and act like those around me. I lacked the confidence to be myself, and I was too full of fear to pave my own way. We are all on our own path just trying to find out what it means to be ourselves and where we fit into this complex world. I hope my work can inspire others to explore their own individuality, and to be more accepting of others who may be different from themselves.  

I have spent countless weekends shadowing this group of Gen Z teenagers, documenting their lives and the dynamic world they inhabit. In a world increasingly defined by rigid gender binaries, the youth of today are breaking these constraints and redefining identity on their own terms. Through their stories, I witness a radical shift: these teenagers are not bound by conventional definitions of girlhood or boyhood. They approach identity with a fluidity that challenges the binary expectations often imposed on them. Their willingness to express themselves authentically resonates deeply with my own quest for acceptance in a landscape that frequently favours conformity.

saramessinger.com
@instagram.com/sara.messinger

Image: Sara Messinger, Untitled, 2022. © Sara Messinger 

Bringing together 66 artists from across the world, Photo Elysée recently celebrated emerging talent with the exhibition Gen Z: Shaping a New Gaze, 19 November 2025 – 1 February 2026. As media partner, 1000 Words is featuring the work and accompanying texts of all participating artists in our weekly column dedicated to new voices in contemporary photography.