2024
For now, adios. See you all in 2025, and as always, thank you for being here.
I only have a few photos to wrap up 2024. I didn’t get out as much as I wanted to, but next year looks promising. I’ve shared these photos below on Instagram, but I’ve added some backstory and thoughts.
This gun store is located in Hopewell Junction, a quiet town about 72 miles north of NYC. This often surprises people when they see this photo. I think people equate buying guns as a Texan, down south type of thing. A few miles away, there’s a shooting range that gets just as busy as this shop.
This photo was taken about 8:30 a.m. I’ve always liked how the sun comes up in this area of town and hits this house. I don’t know who owns this house or its history.
All I can remember from this interaction is that it was brief, and he was comfortable being photographed. He was playing tennis with his friends.
This summer, this skating area was finally repaved. For the first time since living in this town, I saw this area of the park thriving with skateboarders. I later learned from this documentary videographer that the town didn’t pay for the upgrades. It was a group of skateboarders who came together to raise the money. Since the repaving, people from neighboring counties have come through to enjoy the park.
Gosh, I love this picture. These days, I can’t tell what makes a strong image. But I remember how they felt— just being, singing, dancing on a summer day by the Hudson River.
The hands of a carnival traveler. He was hesitant to be photographed, but eventually, he warmed up after some conversation. I decided to keep his identity private. He owns and fixes rides used for small-town carnivals. During these cold months, he works on his trailers and rides.
Javier.
This was probably the hottest day of 2024. He was sitting on a bench with his wife and beloved dog. They were waiting for dusk so they could return to their apartment. They didn’t have air conditioning. He was upset that it’s been so hard to get to his doctor’s appointments.
She said yes before I could say, "Can I take your picture?" She didn’t want her photo, and she didn’t want to see it, but she gave me permission to take more if I needed to.
I only took one photo.
What’s new in 2025?
I’m stepping away from paid photography work and returning to a regular job so I can enjoy photography again. From professional to hobbyist is the goal.
For now, adios. See you all in 2025, and as always, thank you for being here. If you’re on Instagram, this is where I will be: @RVPSKI