06/03/2026
I was shocked to hear that my friend Candace died.
I met Candace on a film set. I was photographing behind-the-scenes images for a movie, and Candace was the lead actress. I remember her being incredibly focused and serious about the role. She was fully in character, and it was really cool to watch that environment unfold because I had never experienced anything like that before.
Later, during a lighter scene at a lake house, I got the chance to talk with her more. We hit it off right away. She lived in the Atlanta area and was getting more involved in film and creative projects.
I've always loved meeting people who aren't afraid to create, emote, and step into a character. So when Candace came to my studio for a photoshoot, we had an incredible time experimenting and building different worlds together. We ended up shooting together twice, the last time sometime around August or September of last year.
That final shoot was in a friend's warehouse. It was incredibly hot, but we spent the day moving through different areas of the space, creating as much variety as possible. We ended up with four completely different looks, and it was amazing to watch her transform into each one. One of my favorite setups involved an old MG convertible parked outside. We had so much fun creating a scene that felt like it belonged in another time and another world.
What I always appreciated about Candace was her willingness to play. Most people eventually get tired during a long creative shoot, but Candace was always ready to try another look, explore another idea, and keep creating. She brought so much openness and imagination to every session.
I always assumed we would do more shoots together.
I followed her acting journey online and loved seeing her take classes, land roles, and continue pursuing what she loved. It was inspiring to watch her put herself out there and chase her passion.
Then yesterday, I learned that she had passed away at the beginning of May.
I couldn't believe it.
She went from pursuing her dreams and living her life to facing a devastating diagnosis that progressed with heartbreaking speed. Within seven weeks, she was gone.
(Continued in comments)
