The Christmas I received my little point and shoot 35 mm, I was in heaven. It never left my hand; I took pictures of everything and I went through film like you would not believe… Looking back now, you could probably say that I wasted a lot of film. But when I look at those pictures, I see a common theme of a love for people and a desire to capture moments and emotions. In high school there was a turning point when I knew this wasn’t just an interest, but my passion, when I learned my grandfather also shared my love, and I had the chance to develop negatives of my mom as a newborn. Being able to see what my grandfather portrayed showed me how powerful an image can be as fleeting moments are captured through a photograph. The power of an image is it’s ability to communicate silently. My love for people led me to a degree in psychology and a deep desire to serve others: in overseas missions, in helping a bride on her special day and making a mother-to-be feel stunning with the life growing inside her. Photography allows me the privilege to meet wonderful people and communicate more than just memories; but to share the story behind the emotions.

05.22.2009

Family Reunion | Allentown, PA

Being Ukrainian, my family grew up on lots of pierogies, long “Ukrainian goodbyes,” and decorating pysanky each Easter. I am very proud of our heritage and the life that my Great Grandmother, “Baba,” provided for my grandfather, his two sisters, and his brother. We recently met up in Allentown, PA, for a surprise reunion — known to all except my Great Aunt, Mary, who just turned 90 years old. Family traveled from all over (as evidenced by the cake), and Mary was very shocked to see everyone, particularly her brother (my Grandpops). It had been almost 13 years since the last reunion of this size, so it was wonderful to see all the family again! Below are photos from the reunion as well as my Baba’s Ukrainian church and the house she used to live in…