A Journey Begins: JJ at Three Years Old
Photography, at its core, is the art of preserving time—of capturing the fleeting moments that define who we are, even as we change. Today marks the beginning of a deeply personal and meaningful journey: the first image in my long-term photography project documenting the growth and development of six children over the course of their childhood and adolescence.
Meet JJ.
JJ is a bright, quiet, and observant three-year-old boy who lives in Pampanga, Philippines, with his parents and sister. He is the youngest subject in this project, and today’s image is a small but powerful glimpse into the early stages of his life.
In this candid black-and-white photograph taken on February 27, 2025, JJ sits in the sand beside his toy garage, engrossed in play. His fingers gently cradle two toy cars, his eyes glancing up just briefly—capturing an expression that blends innocence, curiosity, and quiet contemplation. The moment is unposed and spontaneous, just as childhood tends to be. The textured shadows and muted tones enhance the sense of stillness and intimacy, inviting the viewer to pause and connect with the purity of this stage in JJ’s life.
This photograph is not merely an image—it is a cornerstone, the first in a long visual narrative that I will continue to build over the next fifteen years. From age three to eighteen, JJ’s life will be documented through candid photography sessions conducted once or twice a year, or more often during pivotal life events. Each photo will reflect his personality, interests, environment, and evolution—together forming a heartfelt visual archive of his journey toward adulthood.
Rather than formal portraits, this project focuses on everyday life—moments like these where children are fully immersed in their own worlds, unaware of the camera, simply being themselves. These unstaged moments allow the photographs to serve as authentic time capsules, preserving the real essence of childhood—its spontaneity, its wonder, and its subtle emotional depth.
JJ’s photo marks the start of this commitment to storytelling. Years from now, when he looks back at this image, I hope he sees more than just a photo—I hope he sees a window into who he once was, and how far he’s come. For his family, it will serve as a priceless reminder of the beautiful, fleeting days of early childhood.
This is only the beginning. I look forward to sharing JJ’s growth and the unfolding stories of the other children in this project. Each chapter will bring a new layer to this collective narrative, a growing mosaic of time, memory, and connection.
Stay tuned.
