This is Nico

This is Nico. He was the first person I approached in Vancouver. I had no idea what to expect because this was my first time photographing strangers in a new city.

I was in town for a week of portrait photography sessions. After my fifth shoot of the week, I was tired, 2 hours behind schedule, and ready to put my camera away for the day.

Instead I told myself, “Just one stranger, then we can go home.”

It’s always so nerve-racking when I start looking for someone to photograph. If you’ve ever asked someone out on a date, it’s a similar feeling.

I often get shy and chicken out with the first 3 or 4 people. Then eventually I build up enough courage to say hi to a stranger.

Even if it seems like I have it all together in the videos, honestly it’s an emotional roller coaster ride for me every time.

But here’s the thing…

All it takes is one yes—just one kind stranger to give you a few moments of their day—and all of the sudden everything shifts.

All the nervous energy instantly transmutes into excitement energy and then it’s GAME ON.

It’s as if I’m in a totally new body, with an upgraded brain.

Sometimes all it takes is a few seconds of bravery to change the course of your entire day, or even your entire life.

Thank you, Nico, for stopping and for taking a few moments to make art with a stranger.

Big love,

D

PS: If you want to see the behind the scenes video of me approaching Nico and taking these photos, check out my Instagram or my TikTok.