The Kids is a series of double portraits depicting teenagers between the ages of 12-18. I am interested in photographing this age group as there is a continual dynamic change occurring, as they experience different aspects of their growing adult identity. There is a conflict and tension between their still child-like nature and its inherent vulnerability, and the adult world which they encounter and experience. My intent is simply to present these teenagers in a way which is compelling, in order that the viewer engages with the portrait and considers the complex experience of growing up; which is a universal and enigmatic rite of passage. The style is purposefully minimalist. I have chosen to eliminate those elements such as settings and props, which are often used to create a narrative in portraiture. These portraits have a quiet nuanced poignancy because the subjects’ innocence is tangible, yet they are unaware of it, as we all were at that age. The use of diptych makes explicit the dialogue that is occurring whilst these images are being created. There is an exchange which occurs as these teenagers respond to the photographer viewing them. Because of their age they have a natural curiosity, however the exchange that is occurring is an unusual one for them, which produces powerful imagery. The act of photographing these teenagers reveals the central theme of this body of work; they are experiencing a time of key change; both their perception, and the perception of them is shifting.