My Gender Transition Journey: A Path to Becoming a Man

My name is Anthony, and I am two years on testosterone (T). I identify as a man, albeit one who so-happens to be transgender. Sharing my transition journey and photos is something I've hesitated to do, but I hope that it can help others who are going through a similar experience. Let’s dive in.

Early Years: Baby Photos and Early Awareness

I was born prematurely, just two months and ten days early. Due to my size, I had to wear dolls' clothes for a while before my body could accommodate normal clothing.

As a young child, there were certain photos that captured my essence, like one where I was playing the drums with a determination to be a rock star! Life felt straightforward and innocent during this early phase, but reality began to seep in during 6th grade when I started to feel unattractive and noticed how that could affect my superficial friendships.

6th Grade and Beyond: The Transition Begins

By the 6th grade, my parents were supportive enough to let me cut my hair, marking a significant change. While I still had moments where my hair was down, this photo shows a more definitive shift. Around this time, people in school started to ask invasive questions or make hurtful remarks. This period also saw me exploring my identity further, even coloring my hair to ridiculous colors—a habit I still indulge in today. I came out to most teachers and started therapy to help me figure myself out, and later, I was out to my parents.

Middle School and Beyond

Middle school was a tumultuous time. I knew I was transgender, but I was scared to come out. A close family friend, my step-brother, and a teacher were among the few who knew. However, my journey has been fraught with challenges, both personal and familial. There were times when family members who I cared about deeply were not as supportive as I hoped. My father back in Illinois was initially fearful but eventually came around. Some other family members lacked the empathy I desired, a lesson I’ve had to accept.

Transitioning: From Childhood to Adulthood

After coming out, I started to transition more openly. I positioned myself for photoshoots and social media, trying to model to a more masculine image. This journey has not been without its struggles, particularly with vocal troubles and the need for a more androgynous look to blend in.

I dropped a few photos to update my gender presentation, usually taken around the same time. These photos were a reflection of a struggle to pass, even if I was not entirely successful in the eyes of others. However, I was still happy just to be out for who I am.

Photographing the Transition

Some significant changes to note:

Before Testosterone: January of this year. A period where I still felt I had a long way to go to fully transition. Average Looking Photo: A more mature representation, taken a few months after starting T. Passing as a Guy: My most recent post transition photo taken on a specific date, showing the changes in expression and someone who appears more comfortable in their skin.

Here's my path to my current "smolder" definitively. Since then, I've been focusing on growing facial hair to get rid of what I considered to be a baby face and continue my journey of transitioning to a more masculine appearance.

For context, here are more photos:

Pre-T Transition

Post-T Transition

While still in the process of transitioning, I feel grateful for the progress I've made. I hope my journey and photos can encourage others on their own paths.

If you have any questions or would like more personal photos, feel free to reach out. I hope this helps in any way it can.

Thank you all for your support.

November 2022 Update:

Here's the picture from November 2022. It's a new milestone in my journey, another step forward.