So I’m an artist

I won an award. Nothing like an Oscar. But recognized in a New York Gallery, Soho Photo Gallery. And in that moment of winning something we are changed forever. There is validation that what I’m doing isn’t crazy town. It’s not just me yelling into a void (freelancer). Someone else with authority thinks I’m real as well.

Infinite

I’d like to thank first Katelyn for sitting in this field for me. I wanted to make images that felt real vs just pretty (I’m a fashion photographer). And in a world obsessed with making beauty I want to encourage anyone with access to a camera to stop right there. Make something that says something. Start with speaking to yourself. And move around from there.

Michael Foley for selecting me. You jump started a series of events that are rocking the safe boat already. Thank you.

APA New York for fostering this community and pushing for us to speak through our work to the world and ourselves.

All the photographers I’ve assisted. Both the good and the terribly mean. You’ve all taught me something.

My husband for absolutely letting me be myself. Both sad and happy. And for watching the kids for 5 days while I hit up and hustled around New York.

And lastly I have to thank myself. I did it! I took the photo, I submitted the photo for competition and I went to New York to build community and meet strangers (absolutely terrified) and walked the streets and introduced myself around. Nice work Sum.