I’ve always loved taking pictures—but for me, it’s never just been about the images. It’s about holding onto something that would otherwise slip away. My dad was the one who gave me that gift. He shared his love of photography with me and my older brother, teaching us not just how to use a camera, but how to see—to notice the moments that matter.

I’ve always believed there’s real value in capturing life, whether it’s family, friends, or the culture and events around us. Not everyone sees it the same way I do, but when moments like this come along, people understand. They’re grateful those memories were preserved.

Because photographs do more than just show a scene—they freeze a moment in time. They hold people’s journeys, their emotions, their stories, so that years later, we can return to them and feel it all over again.

This weekend, Cristina took a photo that means more to me than I can properly put into words. She doesn’t call herself a photographer—she’s just learning—but she didn’t need anything more than her instinct. Even on her phone, she got everything right: the composition, the framing… and somehow, the feeling. The sun came out at just the right time, and in that moment, she captured something truly special.

It’s a photo I will carry with me forever. One that I’ll look back on in difficult times, and it will take me straight back—to my dad, to that moment, to everything I felt but couldn’t say. I never thought I’d face a day like this, but here it is… and somehow, this image helps me hold onto him.

To my mum—thank you, from the bottom of my heart, for making this day so meaningful. I love you more than words can say, and I’m so grateful for everything you did.

To all our family who came to share such a deeply personal moment—thank you. Your presence meant everything.

And to my dad… thank you. For everything. And I’m sorry.

I love you always.
Your son.