Growing up in a family of photographers, it was no surprise that I eventually picked up a camera myself. However, as a child, I failed to appreciate the art of photography and viewed it as something ordinary because my dad and grandpa were already doing it. Consequently, I distanced myself from it.

But during the Covid-19 quarantine, I took the opportunity to explore and experiment, and in doing so, I discovered the breathtaking work of film photographers like Mike Brodie and Vivian Maier. I was captivated by their art form, and from that moment on, I became hooked.

So, to motivate myself to leave the house and explore Columbus more, I asked my asked my father for a film camera, to my surprise, he gave me his first camera and taught me the basics. Since then, I have biked over 6,000 miles on my bike, capturing thousands of photographs throughout Columbus. As a result, I make it a point to carry my camera with me every time I embark on a new adventure or explore a new destination.

It has become my constant companion, enabling me to document the beauty and essence of every place I visit. And because I shoot exclusively using film and analog photography, I am forced to slow down and compose each and every shot carefully on a 24 or 36 frame roll of film.

Through my photography, I try to document the hidden beauty in the remains of the rustbelt which surrounds all of us. Whether that is a freight train, a sunset off of a long abandoned apartment building, or some balloons discarded in a dumpster, I strive to provide a sense of exploration and adventure in each of my photographs.

Recently I was awarded for my photography from the Scholastic High School Art and Writing Awards. Of the five photos I entered into the contest, two received Silver Key awards which is the second-highest award a piece of art can receive. I am very proud of this accomplishment. It is always fun to be recognized for what you are passionate about.