Shelley Calton's photo series Concealed reveals a personal perspective into the lives of women who choose to arm themselves according to Texas state laws.
Shelley Calton
Shelley writes, "Growing up in Houston was synonymous with an induction into gun culture. My father always kept a pistol in his nightstand for protection."
Shelley Calton
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"He taught me and my two sisters to shoot at an early age."
Shelley Calton
Shelley Calton
Shelley Calton
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She goes on, "I remember going out to the country to shoot tin can targets. This was a regular part of growing up in my household."
Shelley Calton
Shelley Calton
Shelley's personal relationship to gun culture inspired the photographer to a capture a sympathetic perspective into the lives of women who exercise their right to bear arms.
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Shelley Calton
Shelley Calton
Most of these women have chosen to arm themselves to protect both their family's lives and property.
Shelley Calton
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Some conceal their weapons on their bodies, while others keep them hidden within their vehicles or bedside tables.
Shelley Calton
Shelley Calton
Shelley says that while owning or carrying a gun is not always kept secret, these women seldom boast about it.
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Their concealments are generally unassuming and sometimes very unexpected.
Shelley Calton
Shelley Calton
Shelley ends her series with a thought-provoking question:
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"Are these women really prepared to kill someone to protect themselves, their loved ones or their property?"
Shelley Calton
"The answer from the women in this collection of portraits is a resounding yes."
Shelley Calton
