It can feel so easy, joyous even, giving love to others. Loving yourself? That’s a different story.

While editing these I found myself thinking about D’Angelo. I won’t profess to be a major fan—his artistry and influence was undeniable—but I read an article a couple years ago that changed my whole perspective on him. In it, his manager discussed how after the success and overwhelming reaction to the “Untitled (How Does It Feel)” video, he came to believe that his listeners liked his body, his image, more than they liked his music. He felt like the reaction to his body eclipsed the work itself. The subsequent self doubt became crippling. A good reminder that it really doesn’t matter how we’re seen by others, the only thing that matters is how we see ourselves.

All that to say that I dedicate these photos to the memory of . An artist who will always remind me that the hardest love to hold is our own. May his beautiful soul rest in peace. 🕊️

SELF PORTRAITS. SHOT IN LOS ANGELES. OCTOBER 2025