More Than Meets the Eye

Photos and Writing by Matthew King

My idea for my “More Than Meets the Eye” project is to make my essay about my sister. She has a very unique story and has a great story that could help some people in similar situations. Not only has she been diagnosed with depression, but she also is openly gay. Growing up in our very conservative hometown, she dealt with many problems but has persevered to get into college and chase her dreams. She has to go through a lot of behind the scenes work to get prepared for her life and these preparations usually go unseen but I look forward to showcasing them in this project. I will photograph key places in her life such as where she came out to her family and people that have helped her on her path. I also will photograph things that help her through tough times like her dog and places she goes to when she is having a tough time. I want viewers to feel and see how tough my sister really is. I want them to understand the fighter spirit that she has. I also hope that if other people are going through similar situations, they can see that things do get better and find ways to cope with the stress and other issues they deal with. I am really looking forward to this project.

My sister and cousin. She said family really helped her through this time.

This is the spot where she realized that she was gay.

Her mission trip group which helped her feel comfortable with her faith.

Katie spent a lot of time researching animals and decided to go to school for zoology.

This is the tattoo she got. She showed no fear in people knowing about her.

These are the friends that stuck with Katie through this difficult time and helped her.

Katie credits God and basketball with gtting her through her depression.

My sister fell in love with WSU and decided this is where she would spend her future.

This is the place she told us, her family, that she was gay after a basketball game.

The biggest influence and supporter for Katie through this horrible time, her dog Sadie.