​But the other night, while sifting through some old photos, I decided to experiment a bit. I started playing with black and white filters, something I hadn't done in a long time. As the familiar shades of gray began to emerge, I felt a pang of nostalgia. Black and white photography was my first love, a medium through which I initially discovered my passion for capturing the world.
​
I had forgotten how powerful black and white images could be, how they strip away the distractions of color and bring out the raw, emotional essence of a scene. The contrast, the shadows, the highlights – all of them come together to tell a story in its purest form.

As I converted my recent photos to black and white, I was reminded of the timeless elegance this medium offers. The dark tones seemed to perfectly capture the depth of the green landscapes, while the bright areas highlighted the delicate details of the environment. The textures of the trees, the subtle play of light and shadow, and the intricate patterns of the moss were all brought to life in a new, yet familiar, way.

​One thing that stood out to me was how the camera reads green in black and white. The deep, dark tones of the foliage created a dramatic backdrop, making any bright elements in the scene – such as a vibrant dress or a sunlit leaf – stand out even more. The contrast was striking and added a new dimension to my photographs.

​Living in the PNW, it’s easy to be enchanted by the lush, green world that surrounds us. However, rediscovering black and white photography has reminded me of the beauty of simplicity and contrast. It's a testament to the versatility of this art form that it can transform the same scene into something entirely different, yet equally compelling.
As I continue my journey here in the PNW, I plan to embrace both the vibrant colors and the timeless elegance of black and white photography. Each has its own unique charm and offers a different perspective on the world around us. I’m excited to explore this duality and see how it enriches my creative expression.

​Photography is an ever-evolving journey. Sometimes, revisiting an old love can reignite a passion and open up new avenues of creativity. For me, black and white photography is not just a nostalgic nod to the past, but a dynamic way to capture the present and future.
​
So here’s to the endless green of the PNW and the timeless grace of black and white. Both hold a special place in my heart, and I look forward to blending these perspectives in my work, capturing the essence of this beautiful region in all its forms.

​As the ride commenced, participants embarked on a scenic and educational tour of downtown Portland. The route was thoughtfully designed to highlight key historical and cultural landmarks, each with its own story of the city’s rich and diverse history. Riders had the opportunity to learn about Portland’s LGBTQ+ history, significant moments in the fight for equality, and the city’s vibrant community.
​
The PDX Pride Ride was more than just a bike ride; it was an enlightening journey that connected participants with the heart and soul of Portland. From iconic landmarks to hidden gems, the tour showcased the city’s spirit of inclusivity and pride.

The ride concluded at the Cart Blocks on Burnside, a lively hub known for its array of food carts offering diverse culinary delights. The end of the ride was met with cheers and applause, celebrating not only the successful completion of the tour but also the sense of community and togetherness that the event fostered.
​
At the Cart Blocks, riders enjoyed delicious food, live music, and performances that kept the festive spirit alive. Poison Waters took to the stage once more, entertaining the crowd with her dazzling presence and heartfelt messages of love and acceptance. The atmosphere was electric, filled with laughter, joy, and a shared sense of accomplishment.