Kids - Accra

My work in this gallery concentrates on the positive nature of young people. I believe that while there is still great suffering and evil rampant in the world, there is also abundant evidence of strength, courage, joy and hope. These qualities have not been adequately celebrated, especially in regards to children of color.

While an army of photographers documents the world's tragedies, few are documenting the positive attributes of humanity. This is the side of life I want to show through these images.

Photographing children has always been a fundamental part of my photographic career, from the Capital Children's Museum, where I worked for fifteen years as photographer-in-residence and directed youth photography programs, to my position as photographer for the District of Columbia Public Schools.

I've found that children have a natural innocence that I try to capture through my work. They love the camera, and do not have the apprehensions adults have about getting their picture taken. Therefore, I feel they make more honest images.

In my travels through Cuba and Ghana, I've noticed that children are basically the same as those in the United States. They all love to play, sing, study, work, dance and enjoy life. As you view this gallery, I hope that you come away with that same view.

Click on images for larger versions.
Forever Young: 1 | 2 | 3 | 4

Vicente	Cultural Dance
Bracelet	Camera Kids
Drummers	Nija