Cold Feet / Pies fríos, 2016
Fabiola López
Fabiola López (US, b. 2001). Cold Feet / Pies fríos, 2016. Digital print. 20 in. x 30 in. Courtesy of Las Fotos Project.
“Cold Feet is a phrase used to describe fearfulness or loss of confidence, which is something I’ve experienced again and again. I often find myself worrying about what people think of me, comparing myself to others, or even acting like someone I’m not in order to fit in. I’m slowly learning to be more confident in who I am, not who others want me to be.”
Fabiola Lopez, age 15
Highland Park
In Partnership with Arroyo Seco Library
“Cold Feet”
I struggle with having confidence in myself, sometimes to the point that I convince myself to not take part in something great, or even to take part in something not-so-great. I often find myself worrying about what people think of me, comparing myself to others, or even acting like someone I’m not in order to fit in. But in the midst of my mistakes, I’m learning new things and I’m picking myself up. I’ve learned through many of my experiences that I’m not alone, and that I’m capable of many things. I’m slowly learning to be more confident in who I am, not who others want me to be.
I’m in 10th grade and go to Woodrow Wilson High. I enjoy photography because it allows me to be creative and show people my perspective in the world. When I first started photography, I was in 7th grade and fell in love with it. I decided in 8th grade that I wanted photography to be my career when I grow up. My brother inspires me to keep reaching for this dream because he is also an artist. Although many people told him to give up and choose another career, he kept doing what he loved and now he an art teacher. He constantly reminds me to stay focused and to ignore those who say I can’t get there. Being part of Las Fotos Project is also very helpful because they teach us new skills and constantly encourage us to be confident in our work.
This is my second year of being part of Las Fotos Project and I still find the program very helpful and fun. Through Las Fotos Project, I have been able to make connections with new people. I have met amazing and talented girls my age, and I have met amazing professional photographers. I have been able to be a part of two exciting events: the #girlgaze show and a TEDTalk. Overall, I love being part of this program because it is the first program I felt comfortable and happy in, it allows me express myself freely and share with other people I connect with.