Sam Elliott-Olechnowicz
“I’ve always had a nervous fear of going to the barber, especially when getting my beard sorted. Most times I go with my husband, and he’ll be referred to as “your mate.” When I correct them it’s usually fine, but there’s often that uneasy look of “oh!” Luckily, I have a barber now who is open and actually asks questions.
The football kit has two meanings for me. First, my position is goalkeeper. Second, I’m a strong advocate for equality in football, especially at the club I support, Sheffield Wednesday. Rainbow Owls launched only two years ago, and we’re already one of the fastest growing LGBTQIA+ supporters’ groups in the modern game. Being on the committee means a lot to me – it gives me the chance to help people in the community feel safe watching the team they love.
I’ve loved looking back at the pictures from the shoot. Body image has always been a major barrier for me, having been overweight for most of my life. To look at these photos and actually love them is huge for me on a personal level, and a real testament to Chris’ talent and passion.”
Sam Elliott-Olechnowicz (he/him/they)
Sam (he/him/they) is someone who refuses to be defined by labels, even though many are part of his life: gay, dyslexic, epileptic, ADHD, nurse, educator. He sees himself first and foremost as Sam, with passions that stretch across football, music, running, and finding joy in everyday living. Football has always been central, whether playing, supporting, or pushing for LGBTQIA+ advocacy within the sport. More recently, running has become a big part of his life, something he never thought possible a year ago.
He describes himself as lucky to love his careers in both nursing and education, where he gets to make a difference every single day. For him, it is a privilege to be trusted with people’s health, wellbeing, and learning, and that makes the 5am starts worth it. Being queer means living without apology and standing up for those who cannot, while recognising the freedom he has compared to so many others around the world.
Sam feels fortunate to be seen daily by his husband, friends, and colleagues, but he treasures the moments when visibility takes on a bigger meaning—like the joy his outfit brought at Pride this year. Style for him is about comfort and confidence, something he’s learned to prioritise after years of struggling with body image. Rainbows often feature in what he wears, not only as a mark of pride but also as a signal to others who may not yet feel safe to be themselves, letting them know they’re not alone.
His message to his younger self and to queer kids growing up is clear: just be you. The people who matter will love and accept you for exactly who you are, and anyone who doesn’t is irrelevant. Opinions are easy to give, but that doesn’t make them right.
This is UNCUT — a raw, striking portrait series by award-winning photographer Chris Jepson capturing the power and pride of Queer Joy, shot in a barber’s chair. No filters, no retouching, no compromise. Just bold, beautiful people taking up space exactly as they are.