My earliest influences in photography were Ernst Haas, Gordon Parks and Henri Cartier-Bresson. I consider each to be masters at capturing the fullness of a moment. As a visual artist I combine traditional photographic processes with digital technology to produce limited edition pigment ink prints. My images bear witness to the legacy of enriching influences of the African presence in daily life and custom throughout the Americas. I believe my work to be essential in that it records and celebrates the assimilation of African traditions with other western cultures in the Americas. My images have distinction, in great part, due to the two independent creative processes that occur. While my initial photographs document elements of cultural integration in the United States and places such as Cuba, Jamaica, Barbados and Trinidad; my application of the computer allows me to give the photographic image fuller creative expression. I use my art to inspire people, particularly young people who may come from challenging backgrounds or circumstances. Photography has provided me with a vehicle for my expression as well as the opportunity to influence others through my work.