Working with infants and children as a nanny watching them day to day, I was hit with the realization that these wonderful days filled with giggles and struggle would not be something the child would remember. I became a witness to their stories and took on the role of documenter. In my role I have intimate access to everyday life that appears as mundane moments, but in fact are the beginning stories that help to define a life.

My work as a nanny and also as a fine-art photographer photographing children has been influenced by the child-development pioneer Magda Gerber, an early childhood educator. Gerber is known for teaching parents and caregivers how to understand babies and interact with them respectfully from birth. Her ideas in a nutshell are to allow babies/children to explore their environment, giving them free movement and uninterrupted play. This freedom allows them the opportunity to develop confidence and self-esteem.

I also take my photographic cues from Gerber's approach, one where I am photographing as a fly on the wall.