Photography has been a constant companion throughout my life. From an early age, I was immersed in the craft—developing negatives in chemical baths and reloading film cartridges in lightproof bags. Over the years, photography has documented the many stages of my journey, reflecting the shifting perspectives of youth, adulthood, and now, parenthood. I eagerly anticipate the moments it will continue to capture in the days and years ahead.

The photographs “These Hands Have” and “This Hand Has” were taken as part of a series focused on the often-overlooked struggles of Black farmers in America. They feature Mr. Paul Gaskin of Guinda, CA, and Mr. Will Scott Jr. of Fresno, CA—two men whose lives and labor tell a vital story. Their resilience and contributions deserve to be documented, honored, and passed down. The experiences of Black farmers represent just one thread in the broader tapestry of the Great Migration, yet their impact on the history and current landscape of American agriculture is profound and enduring.