On December 9, 2021, I took a leap—one that would change everything.

Through my lens, I saw a blonde-haired surfer standing on the rim of her glass, perfectly framed. I froze. I couldn’t take the shot. I looked up at Elle, stunned. You’re not going to believe this. When I finally pressed the shutter, the surfer dove into the waves and disappeared.

But what shook me to my core? I saw my brother.

Driving home, I was overwhelmed. I started crying, recording my thoughts for Elle—the only person who truly understood this feeling of finding yourself I knew. I felt my dad with me, his presence so strong, reassuring me: You’re on the right path. Just do what makes you happy.

I was so lost in the moment, I missed my turn home—only to end up at a breath test checkpoint. The poor officer must have wondered what was up with this woman, tears streaming, yet somehow at peace. That night, December 9th, 2021, I knew. I had found my purpose. My passion. My calling to capture priceless, timeless legacies through photography. And I’ve never looked back.

I had been searching for something more, something where I could create from start to finish without handing my vision off to someone else. Late one night, on a whim, I found myself drawn to a camera online. Before I knew it, I had ordered a camera, lenses, and was thinking, What’s next?

I threw myself into learning—both online and in-person. And then, again on impulse, I put it out there: I’m hosting a mini session at Taylors Mistake in Christchurch. I love the beach, and another photographer I admired had shot there before, so why not?

People booked. And then there was one spot left. I reached out to Elle, my lifestyle coach and mentor, someone I hadn’t seen in years. I had no idea she hated driving the hills, but her son brought her there anyway (bless him).

The session felt magical—a creative zone I had never entered before. Elle was bold, free-spirited, wearing a black trench coat and nothing else, holding a wine glass, embracing the moment. And then, something unreal happened.