With a background in photojournalism—and a lifelong love for people and their stories—I’ve always been drawn to nonprofits. I truly believe they keep hope alive, especially in times like these, when critical programs across the country are being defunded.
I’ve worked for nonprofits in the past and volunteer with one today. The work is not easy. Budgets are tight, roles are stretched, and you’re constantly balancing the desire to help others with the hard reality that money often drives what’s possible.
Since 2023, I’ve had the honor of freelancing for the Center, and this year marked my third time photographing their Building Bridges Gala. It’s one of the most thoughtfully produced and joyful events I’ve ever documented. The setting is stunning, the energy is contagious, and everywhere you look, people are smiling, connecting, and celebrating community. Every team member I’ve met is deeply committed to Detroit’s unhoused community—not just with care, but with real action. Their hearts are fully in the work, and that’s what makes them so successful.
At events like this, my goal is to stay unobtrusive. I often shoot from a distance with my Fujifilm 50–140mm 2.8 lens, which allows me to capture authentic, candid moments. If people don’t notice I’m there, I consider that a success. I strongly feel that quiet observation often leads to the most genuine images. I don’t want to influence anyone to act a certain way because my camera is pointed at them. I want to capture who they truly are, their natural smiles and reactions to being in company with one another.
Another thing I love about the 50–140mm is how well it captures the small details that help tie the story together and give viewers a glimpse of what it felt like to be there.
But my go-to, and honestly probably favorite lens in my kit is Fujifilm’s 35mm 1.4 (50mm equivalent on my cropped-sensor Fujifilm XT4 and XH2). It’s perfect for portraits and details—close enough to feel intimate without being intrusive.
I’ve also been learning to embrace my 16mm for wide shots. Composing wide frames used to be a challenge, but this lens has taught me to welcome the visual busy-ness and find beauty in the full scene.
Thank you again to the Pope Francis Center for inviting me to be a part of this important work. Documenting your mission and sharing the stories of this community is a true honor. I’ve learned so much about the challenges Detroit’s homeless population faces—and about the real, meaningful efforts it takes to create lasting change.