EVLCN

I'm a visual artist. Everything posted was created by me. Please do not alter or use my photos. If you would like to share, please give credit.

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I'm currently working on a very important social documentary photography series. This is a photo from the series titled, "Invisible". The photo essay explores the relationship between the homeless people of downtown San Francisco, their environment and the people around them. There will be much more to come.

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I saw that the camera could be a weapon against poverty, against racism, against all sorts of social wrongs. I knew at that point I had to have a camera.

Gordon Parks

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Happy Transgender Day of Visibility!

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Rebirth: 1st Day on T

I got my first Testosterone injection today. To be honest it’s been a little hectic. I’ve been having one of the worse migraines today, but I’m starting to feel a little better. Thanks to Rise Protein Bars, Kuli Kuli Moringa Superfood Bar and Water I’m getting some energy back. Now I just need some local honey to help me out with my allergies.

It’s been interesting starting my transition with the VA. I expected the VA to be much more difficult than it’s been. Unfortunately, I had to see a Psychiatrist, but she was actually very nice and it was really quick and harmless appointment. Now I did have to wait three months after getting the recommendation from the psychiatrist for endocrinology. I finally had my appointment yesterday, which went great. I had to have some labs done first before starting, which was pretty quick. As soon as I got on the train headed home (to Oakland from San Francisco) I got a missed call from the doctor saying I could start my injections. (Unfortunately, I only had 1% phone battery and my phone died) I then spent over two hours calling the VA, trying to get in touch with the doctor. (That was unsuccessful)

So today I just went back to the VA. Thankfully, the women in the Endocrine clinic were very helpful. I was able to get my package (T, needles, tubes, and alcohol pads) for free. The nurse gave me a demonstration on how to give myself the injections and also the direct line to the clinic if I had any questions.

When I got the injection, I could feel the Testosterone being injected and slowly moving/spreading throughout my body. (It was injecting in my thigh) It’s an odd feeling, and I definitely feel a little stiff. I plan to stretch and use a foam roll to help that out. I need to make an acupuncture appointment also.

As for me, right now I feel as if I’ve just started a new life. Something definitely is ending and it’s making way for a new beginning. My dysphoria has been so intense lately. I realize that I deal with quite a bit of anxiety, but mostly in private. I’m going to make time to meditate everyday and exercise. I realize that exercising plays such a vital part in my happiness. I haven’t been exercising lately and I’m feeling every bit of it. I have to be active: Either by cycling or MMA. It helps me clear my mind and keep myself centered. I’m buying a new road bike next week so I can get back on track.

I’m also going to start a new photography series. It’s going to be a self-portrait series following my transition. Of course, it will be ongoing for years to show my evolution. So here’s my first photo in the series. They’ll be many more to come.

Peace.  

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Ray Transylvania, LA. The ever so wise Ray. He's seen so much and the beautiful thing about him is that he's always willing to share. I believe that the best thing you can do in life is to share. Pass on knowledge. Lend a helping hand. We can't ignore those who are less fortunate. But anyway that's a quality that I admire in Ray. I could do a whole documentary on him alone. He's always seem to have this kind of melancholy vibe about him. It was even more noticeable while I was down there. Which isn't surprising because his sister had just died. Still, I learn something from every conversation I have with him. The church that he goes to (which is very old) was originally used as a place for slaves to go and teach other slaves how to read. A learning center under the disguise of a small church behind the Cotten Gin which is still being operated today. Photos of the church and cotton gin coming soon...

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Lester

Transylvania, Louisiana

While taking these photos I could sense that he didn't want to be bothered. This was the day before he buried his mother. The only reason why he'd moved to Transylvania was to be with her (and the need for a change). There was a very strong sense of emptiness in him the whole weekend. Almost as if he'd lost his purpose in life....

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Kaleb Transylvania, LA. I recently travelled to Transylvania, Louisiana for a funeral. Of course I documented the whole thing. This is my cousin's son, he was so fascinated by my camera. I couldn't help but take a photo every time he jumped in front of my camera. Kids... They are the future...