“They prefer it when people refrain from making fun of these individuals,” Laita thought to herself.
The filmmaker photographed the Whittakers with the intention of include them in his book, “Created Equal,” which delves into the rich diversity of American culture.
Although she was at first refused permission to shoot the family, Laita was able to get it and even gave them some prints.
In 2020, he planned to go back to them and learn more about their lives, which were covered on Soft White Underbelly.
During an interview with the Koncrete KLIPS Podcast, Laita detailed his interactions with the Whittakers, characterizing one of them as “out of control.”
