"When we suffer through trauma, it's easy to hide away and conceal our faces. It's easy to avoid the world and even life itself. But in the shroud of darkness, seeds are sown. Then, eventually, the light shines once more, and we once again get to bloom."
This was a very personal project for me. Back in February I was the victim of a violent home invasion and vandalism. He aimed to harm us, but since no one was home, he settled for destroying the entire building, including my studio. It was a lot to handle, and because of that I've barely worked all year. I've shut myself in a hole, not interacting with people or doing anything I'd normally do. Recently I hosted the first photography event in my studio since the break-in, which was certainly cathartic. Darkness happens, but light always comes back. I was thrilled to have a few clients who selected this "shrouded" theme, and feel this image really speaks to me and is my way of communicating the fear and sadness I once felt, slowly being replaced by hope and joy once more.
Nikon D850
Composited with 4-5 images from the set.
TAMRON SP 24-70mm F/2.8 Di VC USD G2
ƒ/2.8
SS: 1/1000
ISO: 100
Godox AD600 in a small octa w/grid for key light, and another Godox AD600 with a gel positioned behind the backdrop, aimed directly at the subject.
Model: Michelle Gin Jenkins
Assistants: Lina Nguyen & Steven Bound