A Trip Through History

As the weather gets warmer and Spring continues to develop. I hope to take full advantage of the history, culture and museums of the Washington DC area. Last week signaled somewhat of a start to this as we experienced the somewhat heartbreaking exhibits within the Smithsonian Museum of African History and Culture. As someone who became addicted to history at a very young age. I was always aware that our teachers and history books were lying to us, or at the very least, telling us less than half truths. We learned more in out two plus hours there than we were taught our entire life. I did my best ro be respectful and keep my piture taking to a minimum. I took the image on the right as we headed downstairs the the eventual exit. I tend to appreciate the images that fall on the dramatic side when it comes to shade and lighting.

Hiking the Appalachian Trail.

Our recent, first ever trip to West Virginia turned out to be a good one. Despite my wife being the only Asian the state had ever hosted. We enjoyed hiking and exploring the Appalachian Trail, Bridge, Shenandoah River and other historic activities. We stopped for baked goods at Bolivar Bread and completely knocked our self out. To be truthful, we enjoyed the day a lot more than we could ever hope. Granted, crossing bridges is my greatest phobia. But, the rapid heartbeat and anxiety were worth it. Though I didn’t spend a lot of time stopping for pictures. I was able to capture a few moments. If you have any thoughts to add. Please do so below.

Once Upon a Time in Hoboken.

As I continue to make room on my computer for future uploads. I’ve found myself examining sessions from as far back as 2002. Though my editing and ultimate deleting has created some much needed space. I’m not nearly as deep into my dive as I hope to be. Upon opening the particular session. I can’t help but note it as hybrid moment where I began to shoot with purpose and not with the fear of making mistakes or moving lights around while I let my subjects story unfold. Below is a slideshow of a Broolyn woman who modeled, worked as a stunt woman and was a martial art master who specialized in knife and sword combat. During our brief time together. I was lucky to capture many moods as well as levels of strength and beauty. Enjoy.

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My Awful Beginnings (Yoga)

As I continue to inspect and ultimately delete age old images from my laptop. I struggle to let go of hundreds, if not thousands of files that no longer serve me and are not doing me any good saving. After coming across this folder of a subject who was deeply into yoga and other means of consciousness I myself, was yet to embrace. I came across this particular session and edited to my liking. Below is a three image slide show that might help me as I look to become a certified yoga instructor .

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Making Room and Letting Go.

Over the last few weeks and most of last night. I’ve been deleting images and music files from the last twenty years or so. As a photographer whose studio sessions often lasted forty minutes to an hour and a admitted music nerd and senior editor at an online indie rock blog. My itunes contains over 6,500 albums. More than I can ever get around to listening to and more than my laptop can ever hold. So, with my computer sending me constant messages, my wife standing over me waving her finger and me wondering what I’m hangin on to. I’ve begun the task of deleting old files and making room for new ones. It’s a lot harder than originally imagined, but it must be done. I took the pictures below, many years ago when I was living in Hoboken, NJ and a member of downtown New York’s S.O.H.O. Photo Gallery. Though I don’t recall the model’s name. She was an absolute joy to be around. In the future, don’t be like me. Overpopulating your hard drive or the boxes in your closet with images you don’t love. When reviewing. Be vicious.

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Stories that Tell Themselves.

If there’s anything that represents American better than the diner let me know. In the meantime, here’s a image taken last week while in Washington DC.

The Empire Strikes a Chord.

After finishing a hefty brunch at Washington DC’s Union Market, we took a much-needed walk and explored the surrounding area. On the tail end of our journey, we found ourselves navigating a somewhat edgy alleyway that featured some exciting art and murals. I came across this Stormtrooper launching a mushroom into an awaiting group of teammates or an unsuspecting crown. Throughout my travels, I’ve encountered countless odes to Star Wars characters. However, my interest in the rapidly widening franchise has waned considerably. I still hold a special place in my heart for the original trilogy.

Exploring the Psychological and Emotional Impact of Tattoos

As mentioned in a previous post, “Things to Come.” I hope to add some flavor to the blog by including contributing editorials and pieces that hopefully add spice to the recipe. The first offering came from James Phoenix, who offered an idea that struck a chord with me, as it was a subject close to my heart, as someone with my tattoo history and a family with its share of tattoo stories as artists and enthusiasts. Before posting, I’d like to thank James for his time, contribution, and remarkable enthusiasm. 

Exploring the Psychological and Emotional Impact of Tattoos

With tattoos gaining popularity in recent times, it’s no surprise that they’ve garnered significant attention among researchers and psychologists to understand their role in human lives.

Historically, tattoos were known to hold personal meaning, represent various cultural nuances, and be part of religious practices. However, what does it mean to get a tattoo in the modern world?

This article explores the connection between tattoos and the human mind and the positive impact this artistic expression has on multiple lives.

Body Modification And Mental Health

Artistic ways of self-expression have been intertwined with body modifications like tattoos and piercings for centuries. But did you know that they may also impact mental health?

The human psyche involves many woven stories of self-identity, personal experiences, and culture, and body modifications serve as a strong form of visually communicating the emotions and values specific to every individual. While the psychology behind getting tattoos and piercings is complex, they certainly hold symbolic meaning.

So, whether someone gets an intricate full-sleeve tattoo or adorns stretched earlobes with various ear weight styles, it can hold personal, spiritual, and emotional meaning to them.

Positive Impact Of Tattoos Mental Health

While there are so many types of body modifications, tattoos are among the most popular, especially in this modern era, especially because of their newfound recognition as a form of ink therapy that symbolizes the transformative process of getting tattooed.

These are the positive influences of this process:

1.   Expressing Oneself

Your inner thoughts, personal stories, and feelings need to be heard. There may be instances where someone struggles to communicate verbally their point of view, and that’s when tattoos become a unique way of expressing their emotions without using any words. Since it provides an indirect way to communicate your own narrative, it leads to a feeling of liberation and instills a sense of relief.

2.   Self Acceptance

Many of us struggle with accepting ourselves, and we use tattoos as a way to love ourselves and find peace within. Whether you get a tattoo that reflects personal growth, signifies a struggle you’ve overcome, or marks a major milestone in your life, it’s all part of your identity, and embracing it in the form of a tattoo is a constant reminder and a boost to your self-esteem.

3.   Mindfulness

Several individuals use the process of tattooing as a healing ritual to learn and push their spiritual boundaries. Getting tattooed requires a lot of patience and perseverance because it’s a lengthy process that involves enduring pain and nervousness. Being present in the moment and teaching your body tolerance is a form of practicing mindfulness, resilience, and strength.

4.   Connection To Community

Once you start getting tattoos, you innately become part of the tattoo community, which surprisingly is quite close-knit and has a strong sense of belonging. It’s an opportunity to build connections, speak your truth, and realize you’re not alone. This breaks down self-isolating habits that leave many feeling lonely as they continue with mental health struggles.

5.   Scar Transformation

People who have visible scars struggle with body image issues and self-confidence. Tattoos offer a way for these individuals to turn their flaws into beautiful works of art. Getting scars tattooed doesn’t just help their sense of self but also helps them heal emotionally as they positively redefine their relationship with these imperfections.

Parting Thoughts

While some get tattoos for aesthetic appeal, using the human body as a canvas has a more powerful meaning to others. It can be an excellent tool for self-expression and discovery that helps you unlock your healing journey so you can evolve and grow as a person.

James Phoenix (Author and Contributing Editor)

With a Little Help from my Friend.

Last week I shared several pictures taken while exploring a Baltimore beach. My wife took a liking to the picture on the left. Adding “I really like this one, but I think it would look better without the automobile.” With little to no experience in many Lightroom techniques. I handed it over to a good friend who can best be disguised as a “pro’s pro.” Personally, I’d consider my long time friend to be a magician of sorts. As he has blown my mind with his skills many times before. I posted a before and after just below. I’d love to get your feedback. Feel free to comment below. Thanks.

Finding Peace

While some find their peace blending into a crowd. I find mine in the few moments of solitude I’m able to steal. No questions, demands or expectations. Just me, my camera, and all the time I need to compose my thoughts and actions.