Dominique (they/them) and Tom (he/him) Sacramento Delta 2020
Dominique (they/them)
I’ve lost count the amount of times I’ve been in front of the camera for Anastasia. What is very apparent each time is the intimate and authentic moment shared during this time. It feels so precious and I’m grateful each time. Then you take a look at the pictures Anastasia just took. She has this gift of capturing THE MOMENT, encapsulated in one frame. Our friendship grew throughout the years and I grow a little closer to myself each time we shoot. It sounds dramatic but it’s nothing far from the truth. When I see myself in her pictures I see my best self, I see the humanity in me. It’s rare i have these moments when i can actually see that part of myself in tangible form.
This time was a first time with another person, which was different, with similar feelings. The tone was casual, warm and based in trust. There was so much to take in, yet nothing at all. It was simple and complex in one. Being on that bus; on this farm, with just Anastasia and Tom; two people I love dearly. I grew again. I reconnected. It was a treat especially in this time of physical distance and safeness in one’s body.
Tom (he/him)
I’m no model and posing for a photo is uncomfortable for me, even when I’m dressed. When Anastasia asked if I’d pose with Dominique I certainly hesitated. Most of my hesitation had to do with openness about my sexuality. I was afraid of getting labelled bisexual or queer or gay by people who had assumed I’m straight. Even in 2021 it feels safer to let that incorrect assumption stand than communicate the more complex truth. I don’t need to be so public but decided to take Anastasia’s invitation as an opportunity to be more open about my life. I don’t always grok art but my fear seemed like a weak reason to not support Anastasia’s work.
Other than my normal discomfort posing, the shoot itself was easy. Anastasia encouraged us to relax, something that is easier for Dominique than me. In most of the photos I can see some concern about what is happening on my face but a few of them seem to capture a moment where I was focused on only Dominique.
Having these pictures taken has emboldened me to talk more openly about my sexuality, something I’m grateful for. I’m attracted to Dominique’s consistent empathy, honesty and passion for movement. I enjoy touching him and his embraces. I’m very tempted right now to reframe this connection within a larger story of my life but will attempt to let go of defining myself by the gender of my lover. Instead I hope viewers enjoy the snapshot of some genuine intimacy and encourage people who know me to not be shy and say hi.