STREETS OF L.A. WITH SLAPP RADIO

Photographed at Earl’s in Crenshaw, L.A.

It was a warm afternoon, and Earl’s was buzzing with the aroma of hot dogs and the hum of conversation. Amidst it all, JC stood playing his flute, weaving melodies through the air as customers enjoyed their meals.

SLAPP Radio was interviewing Earl himself, right in front of the NYC original hot dog truck. James and I were there on a photojournalistic assignment, as usual—a blend of his relentless creative ideas and my lens to reflect the people, the culture. Working with James has always been a creative liberation for me. From Day 1, our styles have meshed seamlessly, amplifying each other’s visions. It’s in these moments that I feel the most free as an artist.

The project, PACIFIC PORTRAITS, was born out of our shared passion for storytelling. It’s about celebrating and empowering every individual and narrative we encounter. This particular day was no different. I came for the hot dogs and the portraits, but I left with so much more.

JC, the flutist, was the highlight of my Crenshaw visit. His kindness was as moving as his music. He called me “Miss Romania” with such genuine warmth that it stayed with me long after. If you listen closely to SLAPP Radio’s interview from that day, you might just hear the gentle notes of his flute in the background—a soundtrack to a moment I’ll never forget.