There’s one thing most veterans can agree on, and it’s the fact that war changes people in significant ways. Emotionally, psychologically, and even physically. It’s not entirely uncommon for veterans to have suffered from PTSD (Post Traumatic Stress Disorder) or brain injuries due to the effects of war.
Lalage Snow, a respected photojournalist, recently released an eye-opening series entitled “We Are Not Dead.” This series was designed specifically to document changes in the physical appearances of soldiers who had served in Afghanistan. She took a photo of each man before, during, and after the war and the effects of the sights they saw and things they must have done are plain on their faces.
The series is a strong testament to the fact that war is ruthless, and nobody is immune to its cruel consequences. Often times, soldiers will emotionally detach from their surroundings to help cope with war, but this often leads to alcoholism, depression, anxiety, and even suicide.
Through Snow’s series, her message is clear. Her goal is to bring the effects of war to the eyes of people who have never experienced it. Rather than showing people photographs of the war happening overseas, the viewer can get a glimpse of it through the eyes and faces of people who have already fought it. You’ll notice in the series that Snow doesn’t push any opinions or agendas; she’s merely interested in giving soldiers a unique voice.
