Sometimes a mental vacation is the move. Ride the wave of emotions, follow your intuition, and let it take you somewhere unexpected. After my last few photo essays were filled with themes and thoughtful plans, I needed to loosen up this time. Instead of elaborate concepts, I wanted to just have fun with it.

I reached out to my friend Heidi (who I’ve worked with a few times over the years) and Zig Zag Goods (who put together a few colorful ensembles for me to borrow). Arriving at Heidi's apartment with very little plans, I documented for a few hours on a Saturday. I set up a few backdrops, and we even took a leisurely wander around her neighborhood. I used one lens and flash, and kept everything as low key as possible, capturing a mix of real and staged moments. At times during our shoot we discussed the news and the evolving global landscape, but mostly? We just let a couple hours drift on by.

In the end, it was a welcome distraction from reality.