The way I wanted to celebrate my birthday this year was deeply unique to me. In the months leading up to it, I toyed with ideas—thinking I might go on an international trip or maybe just have a birthday dinner. But then, it clicked: I wanted something that truly reflected me and celebrated how far I’ve come with my photography.

That’s why I chose to do the gallery. I wanted to honor the people I’ve photographed and showcase my growth—from my viral Tumblr photos in 2014 to my most recent work, The Royal Painting series in 2022. Moving to Los Angeles has challenged my creative energy, with the constant pressure of meeting the living expenses in such an expensive city. So, this birthday was meaningful—a resurgence of my creativity and a celebration of my journey.

Friends embraced the dress code by wearing all black, while I stood out in a gorgeous pink dress from House of CB (though I didn’t get any pictures in it >_<). With the help of friends, the night turned out to be everything I could have imagined. Special thanks to Canvas Discounts for sponsoring all the canvases and completing the experience.

I’m looking forward to 2025, where I plan to host more intimate galleries and finish my upcoming series, The Greatest Love Story Ever Told.