For as long as I can remember, you’ve always been the person I could count on.
You were strict; you kept us all on the straight and narrow, but above all, you were loving and generous.
Dad, I started working for you when I was about 11 years old. At the time, it was the best way I could find to spend time with you. You photographed sporting events, and I sold the photos. Even back then, we made such a great team. We spent our weekends at the arenas, enjoying each other’s company.
And then, you gave me my big break. You decided to pass on all your knowledge of photography to me. Even though I moved far away from you, that didn’t stop you from doing everything you could to help me continue to grow in this field. Without even meaning to, you passed on your passion to me, Dad.
You gave me my first professional camera—and then my second! You equipped me so I could have my own studio at home. You guided me every step of the way as I learned. We shared the same passion, despite our very different styles!
And one day, you told me you were starting to drift away from photography. I know it’s completely selfish, but that day, Dad, I felt my heart break.
I was scared, Dad… I was scared that with the distance between us and the fact that you no longer share that passion that united us—the one you passed on to me—we’d lose touch.
I was afraid of losing you. That’s why, when I landed my first wedding photography gig on my own, I chose to do it with you. I wanted our work and our passion to bring us together once again.
Shortly after that event, you said these words to me: “Thanks to you, I’m rediscovering my love for photography!”
That day, Dad, I’ll never forget it. And even if you decide to stop and focus on your other projects, that passion will continue to live on inside me. I’m not afraid anymore, because I know that all it will take is a photo shoot with me for that passion to rise from the ashes. Thank you for everything, Dad!