After 19 years on the platform, this was my first time being featured in Explore. I go by Red Holga Man on Flickr, and for most of those years, I’ve quietly uploaded my work most of my photographs pass through the stream without a single comment or like. And that’s okay. I’ve never made photographs for the algorithm. I’ve made them for me.
As of this writing, this photograph has over 5,500 views, 115 faves, and 21 comments—far beyond my usual numbers. For someone whose average photo might get a few hundred views and little or no interaction this felt like a quiet validation. Not just visibility, but resonance.
This collage will have a place in the book I’m working on, Panoramas & Polaroids. It’s not just a photograph. It’s a turning point. A signal to keep going.
Thanks to everyone who’s followed along, commented, or simply looked, for those who didn’t, thanks for the quiet space to keep making.
