Maxwell Poth

Maxwell Poth is queer photographer and photojournalist in Los Angeles. Hailing from Bountiful, Utah, Maxwell was raised in the LDS Church. As a member of the LGBTQ+ community, his struggle with the doctrines of his faith led to his departure from the religion.

After leaving the church, Maxwell began his advocacy to help queer youth with struggles similar to his. In 2018 Maxwell created Project Contrast—an LGBTQ+ nonprofit organization that amplifies the voices of LGBTQ+ youth through the power of storytelling. Through contrasting the experiences of queer youth in rural and urban America, Project Contrast celebrates queer youth through their educational efforts. Specifically, the charity aims to lower the rate of LGBTQ+ youth suicides.

Maxwell's portraits help the viewer gain a perspective of his subjects. His work evokes a sense of comfortability with each smile, laugh and pose. As Maxwell continues shining his light on others, his primary message remains, "You are loved.”