I am Patricia Fortlage, a documentary and fine art photographer, with a little writing and motivational speaking thrown in. For over 17 years, I have used my lens to advocate for women and girls, both abroad and here in the U.S. I believe deeply in the power of visual storytelling to raise awareness, inspire action, and affirm that investing in women transforms entire communities. Much of my work
has focused on global partnerships with nonprofits addressing poverty, disease, and inequality—efforts that align closely with my own values. Even my fine art photography is rooted in narrative and purpose. I strive to create images that move people emotionally, spark conversation, and invite change. Projects like Wonder, girl!—a portrait series breaking down stereotypes for girls and young women—and Life Sentence, which explores the long-term effects of sexual assault, have been defining moments in my career. When women tell me that my images helped them feel seen, validated, or empowered to seek help, I know I am doing the work I was meant to do. My current series, Lemonade, is a deeply personal love letter to women with chronic illness. Through fine art and conceptual photography, I am shedding light on the daily realities of gaslighting, dismissal, and resilience. There is struggle, yes—but also humor, strength, and undeniable beauty. We attempt to make lemonade out of lemons each and every day and I aim to shine a special focus on that duality. My style is rooted in realism with a dream-like edge. My hope is for the viewer to have an immediate emotional reaction to my images, as opposed to an intellectual reaction, one that will move them and inspire them in how they themselves move in the world. My work has been published nationally and exhibited widely across the U.S.—but the real impact, for me, lives in the conversations, the connections, and the change each image helps create.
