Mother & Child: Uganda, Crater Lakes in 2017
This portrait of a young mother and child was captured in 2017 as our safari guide took us on a village walk in Crater lake, Uganda, near Queen Elizabeth National Park.
It’s a beautiful reflection on the power of human connection. It’s remarkable how a single encounter with a stranger can evoke such deep emotions and thoughts about the nature of connection in our world today. This portrait encapsulates that essence perfectly, serving as a reminder of our shared humanity amidst a backdrop of extraordinary wildlife and poverty.
My long-term project, “ONCE,” is particularly poignant in today’s society, where disconnection often prevails.
The contrast between our societal teachings to fear strangers and the enriching moments that can arise from brief interactions speaks to the heart of what it means to be human. Those fleeting encounters—whether they lead to profound conversations or remain just a shared glance—carry the potential to leave lasting impressions on both the photographer and the subject.
Photography provides a magical way to capture and preserve these moments, allowing for a connection that transcends time. It’s these “once in a lifetime” experiences that remind us of the beauty of embracing the unknown and the joy that can come from opening ourselves up to others.
This project is a gentle reminder to all of us to be open to the world around us. It encourages a sense of curiosity and warmth, urging us to engage more fully with the people we encounter, even if just for a moment.
Details: 1/125 sec at f4.0. Fuji XT2. XF 18-55 mm lens