This is a self-portrait...that wasn't shot by me, but rather some awesome photographers. Or as we'd call each other #badass #fotoninjaz. This project was for my black & white film photography class. I'm quite certain thousands of hours went into that darkroom for this one, but it was well worth it to just stare in awe at the fotoninjaz' work. I love each and every one of you guys and am so blessed to be surrounded by so much creativity!

Photo by Erin Hull

Photo by Spencer Bakalar

Photo by Daniel M. N. Turner

Photo by Daniel M.N. Turner

Photo by Ariana van den Akker

Photo by Allison Russell

Photo by Julia Wall

Photo by Nivi Umasankar

Photo by Stephen Mitchell

Photo by Spencer Bakalar

Photo by Daniel M. N. Turner

Photo by Ariana van den Akker

Photo by Stephen Mitchell

Photo by Allison Russell

Photo by Stephen Mitchell

Photo by Ariana van den Akker

Thank you all so much! It was one of the best projects I've done because it allowed me to experience the scrutiny of the lens, learn to relax, and learn to trust others more!

My final project. And I mean, my FINAL project. Whoa, I can't believe that was my last photojournalism class. It took a whole lot to get to this point and I'm very happy with how it turned out.

[vimeo http://vimeo.com/33447719]

The idea of my project came from my Grandpa. An inspiring man who strongly believes in never forgetting your roots. He is strongly rooted in his heritage and as a result of him, his children, grandchildren, and even his great-grandchild are proud of their culture.

I worked with three dance groups, Ballet Folklorico, Bhangra, and Native American, and documented how dance has preserved their culture. Here are some shots I took of Bhangra Elite and Ballet Folklorico Espiritu Latino, to go with the video! I'm so thankful these dance groups accepted me into their groups. They are so dedicated to dancing and proud of their culture. It was very inspiring to work with each group.