My hope is to be a quiet observer—honoring my subjects in a way that they might see themselves—with dignity and kindness. I want you to know those in my work, not so much know me.

What began as strictly a documentary project turned into something else along the way. My life became intertwined with those in the communities I photograph. They became my friends, my family. Back in 2003, a photography publication wrote an article about me and included my statement that I was not an objective observer. That still holds true, especially here.

The Homeplace is comfort. The place you can go back to no matter how many years have passed. It will always hold something familiar, something safe, and will always welcome you back with open arms—no matter why, or how long you have been away.