Elizabeth Waterman

American photographer Elizabeth Waterman’s work is driven by a restless hunger to explore life on the margin of society – life, often played out in the dark, in places where a photographer would typically be viewed as unwelcome intrusion. Her interest is not in the sometimes exotic and sensational nature per se, but stems from a more holistic notion that society is defined as much by its margins as by the centre. Ultimately, her photos are always informed by humanist interest in portraying people – whatever  the circumstances in which they live their lives.

Moneygame

Moneygame explores the world of strip clubs. For four years Elizabeth Waterman spent most of her Saturday nights in strip clubs, photographing and building a rapport with the dancers who make their livelihoods there capturing the girls climbing the pole, giving lap dances in the VIP section, putting on glittery outfits, and counting their dollars at the end of a long night. It is a considerable achievement that notwithstanding – in fact, despite the locations Elizabeth Waterman avoids sexualised clichés. Her images always capture individual women, who for whatever reason earn a living in the clubs.
The hardcover photobook ‘Moneygame’ is available from Albumen Gallery. Follow moneygame to find out more

At the Bar
Cheetahs, Hollywood
Déja Vu
Lapdance on a slow night
Mike Diaz, Club W.
Nikita on stage
On Stage
Phoenix counting cash
The Mirror
Treasures, Las Vegas

Drag Queens

Aquaria in Red
Crimson Queen, NewYork City
Drag queen with flower hat, Bushwick
Empress Veruca, Brooklyn
Horrochata, Brooklyn
Maritime Hotel
Miss QueenSateen & Exquisite (Dylan Monroe & Jessica Love), NewYork City
Muffin Head
Sasha Velour, Bushwick, Brooklyn
Scarlett Envy
Severely Mame,  Bushwick,  Brooklyn
Three Drag Queens at Party
Three Drag Queens, NewYork
William & Matteus

Lady Boys

Bangkok Lady Boy