all smiles in the garden w. @blueomari

by the valley oaks w. @_diannalopez for @ourearthcalling ʕ ᵔᴥᵔ ʔ last fall

Clerodendrum Paniculatum — the pagoda flower. This species is within the mint family, native to Southeast Asia and India, introduced to Europe in the 17th century. Its cultivation in Thailand, Malaysia, and Indonesia began centuries ago, easy to grow in humid climates to produce year-round blooms. The pagoda is known to grow up to 6 ft tall. Their clusters of flowers make them a pollinator favorite — soft red petals that bloom simultaneously. In Malaysia, the plant can be infused and drunk as a purgative and can be applied externally to the stomach. The roots have been used as a treatment for typhoid, an oral disease caused by Salmonella, where the leaves would treat external wounds and liver complaints. Several Ayurveda practices state that the plant pacifies inflammation and skin diseases, and there have been several antiviral effects discovered.

bts for @dizzyfae live performances 🧡

the most marvelous time with @ourearthcalling + @consciousmusiccircle + @feelxtrip ♡♡♡

for @blackoakcollective fashion show ﾟ.*･｡ﾟ

TIMELESS • • • • • going to be sharing some portraits I captured from @blackoakcollective fashion show during @marketplaceofthefuture last month  (*ﾟ▽ﾟ*)

so easy (to fall in love) • • • • • This is a Tiger Longwing Butterfly (Heliconius hecale) — found from southern Mexico to Ecuador. Their name follows the coloring of a tiger, a mix of bold orange and black patterns with white spots. Most species of Heliconius lay their eggs on passion flower vines. As the larvae develop, they munch on the passion flower leaves, allowing the species to become un-palatable to other creatures. But how?! The poisonous products of the plant are called cyanogenic glycosides, which serve as a defense against herbivores. Several species of insects, like the Tiger Longwing, have developed a tolerance to this molecule, allowing them to absorb its qualities so they, too, can become undesirable to predators. 🌱🦋 #butterfly #insectphotography #canon #naturephotography #butterflyphotography #butterflyphoto #darkroomapp #natureeducation

where to go • • • • • #canon #photography #blurmotion #beachphotos #pinterest #fashionphotography #art

it’s just us • • • • • Had the most marvelous time in Washington D.C. last week! So many spring blooms. Enjoyed the lovely @usbotanicgarden and was amazed by their collection of florals from around the globe. I was particularly impressed by their orchid specimens — such lovely fragrances and blooms. I’ve spent a lot of time thinking about love lately. Listening to the new Kali Uchis album, “Sincerely,”, has been making me feel so lighthearted. It’s not often an artist creates a body of work entirely driven by such tender passion and butterfly-like feelings. Beautiful album and highly recommend a listen! • • • • • #orchids #nature #naturephotography #flowerphotography #spring #springphotography #plantlife #florals #botanicalgardens #washingtondc #canon #inspiration #lightroom #kaliuchis #sincerely #springblooms #roses #flora

lovers&friends • • • • • Had the most wonderful experience capturing moments at @threadsofchange_official last week ✨🌻 It was so lovely to be among such incredible individuals and changemakers! Swipe to see photos from dinner & the red carpet. Thank you @fortodaystomorrow @with_blackpearl for organizing, and @1hotel.weho for hosting! Your commitment to sustainability and community is truly admirable. Special thanks to @iam_samata for the invite and trust! 📸 • • • • • #photography #fashion #sustainability #threadsofchange #ecofashion #changemakers

VANESSA VIRGINIENSIS • • • • • Would love to share this beautiful American Painted Lady (Vanessa virginiensis) I captured earlier this year! Like the *regular* Painted Lady butterfly, this species travels thousands of miles during its lifecycle. They primarily feed on marigold, wormweed, goldenrod, and ironweed. Although they are not endangered, the American Painted Lady — along with several other insect species — face threats like habitat loss, chemical pollution, and fluctuating temperatures from climate change. Butterflies are ectothermic (cold-blooded) and rely on external sources of heat to maintain body temperature needed to fly. Elevated temperatures may lead to dehydration and heat stress, reducing the lifespan of butterflies. 🌼🦋 Butterflies are critical pollinators — we can support them and other insects by planting native plants, avoiding pesticides, and participating in local conservation efforts restoring biodiversity. • • • • • #nature #natural #buglife #canonphotography #insects #florals #butterflyphotography #spring #paintedlady #naturalist #conservation #pollinator