Portfolio
Known as the coffee capital of Australia and celebrated for its vibrant street art and graffiti-filled laneways, Melbourne immediately drew me in as both a coffee lover and an artist. I wanted to be surrounded by creativity, and the city offered exactly that. The blend of art and culture throughout Melbourne carries a unique rhythm and energy that feels distinctly different from other major cities in the country, making it an inspiring place to explore, create, and simply exist in a truly artistic space.
My son’s first big trip was one I’ll always treasure. I told him he could choose anywhere he wanted to go, and without hesitation, he chose Maine—so that’s exactly where we went. What followed was an unforgettable adventure for both of us. From lobster diving and sailing along the coast to wandering charming cobblestone streets, every moment felt like a new cultural experience we were discovering together.
Of course, I couldn’t resist capturing a few photographs along the way—especially at one of the most photographed lighthouses in the world. The trip became more than just a vacation; it was a shared memory filled with exploration, learning, and the simple joy of seeing the world through each other’s eyes.
Philadelphia — The birthplace of my mother. Philadelphia was a major battleground of the Civil Rights Era during the 1950s-1970s. I wanted to honor this rich history and capture every part of this historical city. The “City of Brotherly Love” -and “Philadelphia” means just that. Known for cheesesteaks, water ice, warm soft pretzels, Chinatown, and the Gallery (now the Fashion District). You can always find food trucks lining Center City serving everything from classic sausages to late-night favorites. I could go on and on about this city—my city, well; my mom’s city first.
For a photographer, it’s a dream canvas. The culture, nightlife, and landscape feel as authentic as they come, each neighborhood telling its own story through architecture, street scenes, and the people who bring it to life. No matter where I travel, there’s always a sense of pride and comfort when I touch down and see the skyline rising in the distance. I’m proud of where my mom is from, and where I’m from and honored that I get to capture all of Philly.
The birthplace of my father—Kinston—holds a special place in my heart. I’ve always cherished the stories he shares about how and where he grew up, and capturing images there feels like a quiet tribute to his journey. These are the memories I’m proud to preserve and pass down to my son, keeping our family history alive through photographs and storytelling.
Over time, North Carolina itself has transformed in ways he once never imagined. From its peaceful, quiet pockets to the thriving cultural energy found in cities like Raleigh and Charlotte, the state continues to evolve while still holding onto its roots. I look forward to photographing every corner of it—honoring the past, celebrating the present, and documenting the growth for future generations.
Not only did I enjoy the nine-hour drive from San Antonio into New Mexico, but arriving in Santa Fe felt like stepping into a quiet, artsy retreat. The town carried a calm, creative energy that made it easy to slow down and truly take everything in. I was especially fascinated by the doors of the clay adobe homes—each one unique in color, carving, and character, almost like individual works of art welcoming you inside.
Although I wasn’t able to visit the reservations during that trip, I still appreciated the surrounding views and the deep sense of culture present throughout the city. The art, architecture, and traditions shared so openly created an atmosphere of respect and celebration, making the experience both inspiring and meaningful.
A relaxed island culture was exactly what I was searching for when I visited the Bahamas, and it delivered in every way. The blend of African and Caribbean influences could be felt in the music, the food, and the everyday rhythm of life. Meals took time to prepare, but that patience felt natural there—nothing was rushed, and everything was made with care. You quickly realize you’re moving on island time, a gentle pace that feels worlds away from the urgency of city life.
One of my favorite memories was the fish soup—rich, comforting, and full of flavor. It wasn’t just a meal; it was an experience that reflected the warmth and authenticity of the culture itself. The entire trip reminded me how refreshing it can be to slow down, appreciate the moment, and truly immerse yourself in a place rather than simply pass through it.
I promised myself that the day I left Costa Rica, this would be my retirement home. I rented a car and drove through the lush mountains, spent time with locals, and savored incredible food along the way. I was eager to bring back the moments I captured—snapshots of a culture so rich and vibrant, yet quietly tucked away from the usual tourist path.
One of the simple joys was wandering into local grocery stores and trying all the snacks. I never imagined anything could top the classic American potato chip—but in Costa Rica, it happened! Every bite felt like a little discovery, a taste of daily life and tradition. I can’t wait to return, camera in hand, to capture more of the everyday moments in this serene, beautiful paradise.
Another cherished part of my upbringing was traveling to the orchards—picking strawberries, peaches, blackberries, and apples straight from the trees and vines. Fall in Pennsylvania is truly picture-perfect, a season filled with warm colors and crisp air that any photographer dreams of capturing. The landscapes alone feel like living postcards.
I was always drawn to the culture of the Amish community. Although photography isn’t always customary or welcomed, I occasionally managed to capture respectful glimpses of their way of life from a distance. Many of our trips led us to Lancaster County for freshly picked collard greens and homegrown vegetables, where the simplicity and authenticity of the experience left a lasting impression. Some of my fondest memories were shaped during those visits—moments of learning, appreciation, and quiet connection to a culture rooted in tradition and community.
The Crab Traps
Every summer, my family and I would wake up at 4 a.m. to catch the high tide in Atlantic City—about two hours from Philadelphia. It’s a tradition that began when I was five years old and quickly became one of the memories that shaped my childhood, and my brother’s childhood. Some mornings we’d return with nearly a full bushel, and my mom would already be excited to cook them as soon as we walked through the door.
Learning how to crab wasn’t just a seasonal activity for us—it became a way of life, filled with patience, laughter, and early-morning sunrises over the water. Today, I’m grateful to pass that same tradition down to my son, sharing not only the skill itself but the sense of family, heritage, and togetherness that comes with it.
