Personal statement: I first discovered photography the summer before my freshman year of high school, thanks to my oldest brother. He introduced me to the basics, and I soon found myself very interested. That summer, I spent hours watching YouTube videos, learning about different techniques, and practicing with his old Nikon D3100. I didn’t have much gear or experience, but I was excited to improve and explore the new hobby.

When school started that fall, I learned that Community High School had a well-known journalism program. I heard that students could take photos for the school’s publications, and I knew right away it was something I wanted to be a part of. As soon as I was able to, I joined the journalism program during the second semester of my freshman year.

Joining staff completely changed school for me. I met Daniel Ging, who was the photography editor at the time. He became a mentor and friend who helped me see how powerful photojournalism can be. That semester, I fully committed to learning and growing. I practiced constantly, experimenting with composition, lighting, and editing and started to understand how photos could tell meaningful stories that connect with people.

At the end of that year, I applied to become the next photography editor—and was chosen. Since then, I’ve had the chance to lead photography for our magazine, website, and yearbook. My role isn’t just about taking strong photos; it’s also about helping others. I teach students how to use cameras, give them feedback, and support them in taking photos for their own visual stories. Taking on this leadership role has helped me grow as both a leader and a photographer.

Outside of school, I’ve continued to push myself. I explored new styles like film, street, and sports photography. I even started a small business through Instagram, shooting sports and other events. In the process I have been able to develop a personal style. Whether I’m capturing the raw intensity of a basketball game, the quiet strength of someone preparing for a photoshoot, or the joy of a student cheering at a football game, I aim to create images that feel honest and alive.

This year, I helped lead the first edition of our magazine to a Best of Show award. I’ve also received individual recognition in both state and national competitions. Next year, I’ll take on a bigger leadership role as one of our publication’s print editors-in-chief. My goal has always been to make our journalism more engaging, not just with great stories and design, but with visuals that draw readers in and keep them connected.

I truly believe that a photo tells a thousand words. Whether I’m flipping through a magazine or scrolling on a website, the photos are always what I notice first. Great images bring stories to life. That’s what I aim to bring to every issue we publish—photos that don’t just fill space, but that make people pause and feel something.

Photojournalism matters to me because it captures moments; moments that are powerful and emotional . Whether it’s a student tugging with everything they’ve got in a school competition, or a young child gazing at a vice president with curiosity and hope, photos like these reveal something bigger than the frame itself. They tell the story of our school, our community, and sometimes, our future.

Photography started as a hobby for me, but journalism helped turn it into something more. It’s now a true passion and I’m excited to keep pursuing it.