Headed Down South

Eid Al - Adha [The Feast of Sacrifice]

USA | Monday, November 24, 2014 | 5 photos

It all began when I chose to sneak into my brother’s room looking for a dirty magazine I had seen him uncover. But instead I found something that would stimulate my senses to an even greater degree. I pulled out a small bag containing a Nikon Film Camera, scratched into the side were the words, “Los Angeles Times.” My uncle had given the obsolete gear when my brother had expressed interest in a darkroom course he was going to take, but as the semester ended my brother found passion elsewhere. Having no background in capturing images, I aimlessly put film into the back, and clicked away, learning from each print developed, and the feelings evoked from the image. I chased light, shadows, people, nature, and found a way out of my adolescent struggles, and a way into being fully immersed in the present when searching for the perfect moment. I put myself through film school, and grew to appreciate the art of storytelling. But at the end of day I realized the stories that hit deep were of real individuals & communities. I have high hopes to win this contest, so I can continue evolving my passion & sharing the stories to those who will listen, and lend their hearts. Peace.