Harold Julian was the first photographer I was able to work with. It was for a testshoot with model, Momoko, and we basically shot a Summer story that harked back to the 70s (think wide-leg trousers and white applique cardigans). I had never worked with any other photographer before and I was really trying to impress him...kind of to say, "HEY. LOOK OVER HERE. I CAN DO THIS. I THINK." It was kind of a traumatizing experience because I felt I was fumbling. Here I am, a rookie completely drowning in front of more experienced people that have worked more, worked harder than I. I was scared.

Finally I caught a glimmer of light when Harold muttered, "It looks really expensive. It looks high end." What you said now? What?! I don't think he knows this, but I honestly just got lucky to work with him. Who wants to work with a new nobody anyway? Though...ever since that initial shoot, Harold and I worked consistently together for the next couple of years. Hallelujah.

In ways I feel forever indebted to him. He helped to train my eye to certain things, sharpened my skill as a stylist, and brought out the creative and spirited side of me. Up until Harold, I had no idea how to even navigate what to do with editorial, how to make something look powerful without being gimmicky, he basically trained me. No one else on the island could have been a better teacher or a better leader. I am the most grateful...the most humble to have collaborated with him for such a time. Harold if you're reading this...THANK YOU. You gave me my start so, thank you for taking a chance on me. I wish you ALL THE BEST in New York. Your artistry, your voice, your dialogue as a photographer exceeds anything positive I could say. I can't even begin to fathom how successful you'll be up there. Also, I just have a few more things to say...

1. You still have my black blazer.
2. I'll see you later in the year...