Romain Baro photographs the cheerleaders of suburban France

Photographer Romain Baro has spent two years photographing the cheerleading squads of France for his series L’Americaine. The project was conceived when Romain was commissioned by Le Monde to write an article about a French American football team. “At that time I met another group of athletes: cheerleaders. I was very intrigued by these teenagers. And I started doing some research about their sport,” explains the photographer. “I found that a French cheerleading scene was growing up since around 2000 with clubs like Tigers, Duchess, Dogs or Phoenix. Each team has its own identity – colours, uniforms, anthems and choreographies.”

Romain travelled across France to visit training sessions, shows, competitions and the cheerleaders’ homes. “For me it was a way to discover their world and who they really were. I met a lot of girls from different social backgrounds and few boys too. I asked them: what did you find in cheerleading? I’ve been captivated by their unique enthusiasm,” he says. 

Now the project is completed, Romain feels that he was able to challenge some of his ideas about youth culture in France. “In my opinion the camera is a mediator which allows you to understand your subject and to learn about yourself. There is no pleasure in taking pictures that were on your mind before you go out,” he explains. “In this case that was particularly relevant because like other people I had some pre-conceived thoughts about these teenagers. So, I spent my weekends and some holidays travelling through France and meeting families.”