As a parent who lost his child too early in life, I realized the importance of being there for every moment. I'll always remember the night my wife and two boys came by my work around 9 pm, so excited, “Dad, guess what - we won!” As much as I wanted to rejoice, I knew that I missed it...I failed to capture one of the biggest wins of my son's senior year football season. Even though the game led them to regionals and I ended up being there to watch, I’ll always remember the one game that I missed.
When I was on my high school basketball team, we won state championships. We had photos taken with the trophy, the net and all my team members. I can look at that photo to this day and see my teammates, coach, and several team members who aren’t around anymore. But that photo really helps me remember the special feeling I shared on that day, with each and every guy on my team. The camaraderie, the excitement, the pride of our achievement—all encapsulated in that single image.
When my son passed away, I was so devastated that I couldn't just look back at the one game that he was so proud of, when he was in his prime, winning with his team. That moment, that memory, was forever lost to me because I wasn't there to witness it, to capture it, to cherish it. As a parent and a photographer, I have a heartfelt determination to never miss the memorable moments in the lives of our young adults. Every game, every celebration, every victory, and even the defeats are precious.
I understand now, more than ever, the fleeting nature of time. The importance of being present, of living in the moment, and of capturing those moments for eternity. Each photograph is a testament to a life lived, to experiences shared, and to the love that binds us. I want to ensure that no parent has to feel the regret I felt, that no child’s accomplishments go unnoticed or uncelebrated.
Every time I pick up my camera, I am reminded of my son. His spirit lives on in every shutter click, in every captured smile, and in every shared moment. I strive to honor his memory by being there for others, by preserving their precious moments, and by ensuring that they have tangible memories to hold onto when words and memories fail.
Through photography, I capture the essence of a moment, freeze it in time, and share it with you to keep close to your heart forever. That's my dedication and that is my promise.
- Charles Moss