In today's digital age, it's incredible how technology can bring people together. In March, I embarked on a delightful photoshoot in Jacksonville, Florida with a newfound friend named Sawyer, whom I was blessed to meet through an LGBT Facebook group. The beautiful setting near Riverside Park, combined with the sunny afternoon, created the perfect backdrop for our shoot.

Jacksonville, known as the "River City by the Sea," is a coastal city brimming with Southern charm and natural beauty. The photoshoot took place near Riverside Park, a picturesque location renowned for its lush greenery. The park's tranquil atmosphere provided an array of captivating backdrops, making it an ideal choice for our creative vision.

Thanks to the power of social media, I crossed paths with Sawyer, who hadn’t had a proper photoshoot since his transition. After exchanging messages it became clear he would be a great person to collaborate with.

On the day of our shoot, the sun graced us with a beautiful golden glow over the park. The weather was simply perfect. We met half a block from the park at Birdies, a local gay bar and institution well-known to Jacksonville LGBTQ folks. From the moment we met, Sawyer and I instantly clicked. It felt more like a casual hangout than a formal photoshoot.

As I look back at the images from that sunny afternoon, I am reminded not only of the beauty of the location but also how the most important part of a portrait session is connection.

Hope you enjoy these pics. May you be safe and well <3