Portraits on the Streets of Chicago

I wasn’t planning to take portraits around Chicago. I’ve never been that kind of brave. The kind of person who just says, “Hey, can I take your photo?,” but something changed while I was there. I felt bolder, more inspired. I just asked. No one said no. It was so great. I wrote this while I was in Chicago:

“I’ve made a connection. A connection with a stranger. I can feel their trust all of a sudden enter the conversation. They’ve leaned into the experience. They have sensed a genuine curiosity- perhaps an honest dedication to know them.

Stories follow. The ones that take my breath away, or make me laugh so hard I feel it’s important to reach out and grip their shoulder as I bend over huffing. There are the stories that makes me tear up - their voice sharing the emotion of a story combined with the honor of listening - it overwhelms me. Time flies by - I was going to catch that bus…the grumbling in my stomach stopped…it too decided this person was far more important than a snack. I sometimes fear breaking eye contact with my new friend, not wanting to lose this moment - this moment that encapsulates the human experience. Why we have eyes, voices, and wrinkles. Why we feel it’s odd to leave a shop without saying “Have a nice day” or ask waiters “What’s your favorite?” These are all reminders that we live to live among others - even strangers. I’m just so thankful for each person who let me ask more than “How are you?” It’s powerful to feel heard. For another to listen, one hears “What you are saying is important. Important to me.” I often walk away quiet. Sobered by how special the person I just met was - how amazing it is that God put us in each other’s paths that day. I’ve made a connection. I’ve met a friend.“