In 2006 I took a personal trip to Kyoto. My friend Michi said I would like it. At the time I was living in New York City and she said, “Don’t go to Tokyo. It’s a big city. You live in a big city. You’ll like Kyoto.”

Best Feature Photography for “Sushi Masters” and Best Recipe Photography for “Snow White Sweets”

Photographs of Portuguese markets and restaurants in the Fall River and Boston areas for Condé Nast Magazine.

You get your five minutes and you try to make every second count. She walked onto set as calm and cool as a spring breeze, a picture of humble and peaceful confidence. Honestly, it was impossible not to have a little crush on her. Luckily the people of Boston felt the same way and they now have the most “bussin’ fire” mayor in America. Wutrain ya’ll.

I took note of some interesting leads and then looked up Ilene’s contact info in the mast head. We had lunch a few days later and she asked me if I wanted to shoot for the magazine - just like that. And in the blink of an eye it’s been 18 years.

Community Servings is one of my favorite clients. Amazing organization, amazing mission, amazing people.