Sorting the negatives
A little self introduction and story of passing a torch
Photography is the lifeblood of our family, passed down generation to generation- and I am grateful to be holding this torch alongside my wonderful family. It allows us to time travel, reviewing where we have come from, and empower us to document the ever changing present. Looking at old photos, I cry, laugh and cringe with memories that flood my mind surrounding those days.
Photography has changed my life, and shaped how I look at the world. I want to take a moment here to thank my family for encouraging me to make photos, observe the present, and learn the dynamics of freezing time. Whether I am in Chicago or on the occasional vacation, I always bring my camera with and practice. Growing up with professional photographers like my Mom or brother Colin has inspired me to follow a similar dream. The creativity we get to share with others gives me purpose, despite the chaos of adult life that can loom like a dark cloud overhead.
At 25 years old, I find myself daunted by what is going on in the world. I have always been a bleeding heart, and I cannot turn off empathy and ignore the suffering and pain. Photography allows me to be in the moment, and rebel by sharing the beauty of life in tangible form. Some days I just want to retreat, but resisting and making art gives me hope - hope that we can be peace, and live better together through art and empathy.
Photography has allowed me to connect with so many people, and expand my understanding of the world. I have made deep connections with people from all over, and have learned much about my city through photography.
This is my profession, purpose, and life force. I am going to share my experiences through this forum of passionate people, and create a dialogue of uplifting words. If you have gotten this far, stay curious and document the world around you- You are the only one that sees the world as you do! Please feel free to comment and share your experiences with photography here, and how it has left a lasting impact on your life.
And now, here are some photos highlighting moments along my journey so far.
A joyous beginning! My lovely Gram gifted me this camera (I forgot to take the lens cap off sorry, I still do this) and this is where the love began for photography.
Staying up late as a young teen with my brother Colin as we practiced star photography. I remember a lot of math required for the long exposures, and a lot of laughs.
Previewing the negatives is always like Christmas for me! It never gets old and is such a rewarding process to share. Thank you Mom for sharing the gift of photography with me.
A beautiful spring day to celebrate my friend Marc’s graduation- We are both photographers, and it was so special to make these portraits for him.
I am so lucky to have met this lovely couple here, and then 6 months later make their portraits. I am beyond grateful for artists supporting other artists, and have to say thanks again Tenayah and Robbie!
Daily life deserves to be documented! I am so grateful for my partner Olivia who shares this passion with me, and always finds adventure in everyday.
There will be more coming soon! Thank you for taking a moment to pause and reflect with me.