It’s funny how life works sometimes, how the simplest things can shape our journey in unexpected ways. For me, it all started innocently enough back in the days of MySpace, when self-portraiture wasn’t about creating the “perfect” image, but rather just capturing a moment, a feeling, or a side of myself I wanted to share with the world.

I remember experimenting with my camera, playing with different angles and lighting, and trying to convey my mood through the lens. Those early self-portraits weren’t anything spectacular, but they gave me the chance to express myself in ways I hadn’t before. Looking back, those photos were the first step in what would eventually turn into a deep love for portrait photography.

What started as a personal creative outlet quickly turned into a passion for capturing the essence of other people. The more I practiced self-portraiture, the more I began to realize the power a photo could hold. It could tell a story, evoke emotions, and create a connection between the viewer and the subject. That realization sparked something in me, and I found myself not just wanting to capture my own image, but others as well. I wanted to help people see themselves in a way they hadn’t before, to make them feel seen and heard, just like I had done through my self-portraits.

And so, my journey into portrait photography began. It wasn’t an immediate shift, it took time to find my style, my approach, and my confidence behind the camera. But those early days of experimenting with self-portraiture laid the foundation for everything I do now as a photographer. They taught me the importance of self-expression, the value of perspective, and how photography, at its core, is about connection.

So, for anyone starting out in photography or any creative endeavor, remember that sometimes the most unexpected paths lead to the most fulfilling destinations. What began as a way to capture my own self has led to me capturing others in ways I never imagined. And for that, I’m incredibly grateful.