People underestimate what teenagers are capable of. They mistake energy for carelessness, passion for impulsiveness. Environmental photographs of teenagers in their element often tell a different story. The real one.

I have had the honor and privilege of being asked to photograph people’s kids as they participate in the activities that are true representations of themselves at their best, most real, and most powerful.

This collection is of high school students involved in the performing arts program. A drum major leading the band on the field. A cellist’s fingers finding each note with calm precision. A rock band that makes an auditorium full of people move as one. Passion and talent are here, but also the steady presence of teachers who understand that excellence is a habit, not an event. All these kids are creatives, who care about mastering their craft.

These images are of character revealed—young people discovering who they are, what they can do, and what it means to commit to something larger than themselves. They are finding their voice. They are finding their people. They are expressing who they are, and who they are becoming.