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If you’ve been following my social media this year, you’ve witnessed my journey into the world of photography, and what a ride it has been. Hopefully, you have also seen my skill develop, hehe…

The catalyst for this newfound passion was an unexpected gift from my grandmother. After my birthday this spring, she approached me, saying, ‘Justin, I might die unexpectedly at some point soon, so here is some money. Buy yourself something that you would remember me by.’ Little did she know, this gift would lead me to explore the art of capturing moments with a camera.

Since acquiring the camera, I’ve delved into my Russian grandparents’ rangefinders, purchased my own film camera, and, most importantly, discovered my love for documenting the world and the lovely people around me.

10: The Boys

Let’s start with some easily digestible slop.

This photo found its way into print this year in the Documentary and Streetphotography publication DOCU magazine Vol4, Issue 7. Personally, While I find it amusing, there’s a personal sentiment that makes me question its selection for publication. I understand that it looks a bit funny, but maybe for me it is tinged too much with the fact that I would have chosen some other image of mine to be published instead.

9: Homebound

This image holds the honor of being my most-liked on Instagram this year.

Despite not personally choosing it as a favorite, the vibrant colors, simple framing, and the timeless aesthetic of an old train cart resonate with many.

I personally like this photo for a different reason. It is a reminder me of my homebound subway line in Stockholm. My parents live just a few stops from the Central station on the Blue Line, but the track itself stretches far into the Northern Stockholm. I think this is the most ethnically diverse subway like which I find very precious, it reminds me that no matter how gentrified Stockholm currently is, we can have beautiful cross-cultural space.to strive towards.

8: Punk Mouse

Warm feelings accompany this photo, which doubles as a self-portrait with my girlfriend.

Capturing moments with my loved ones has become a cherished aspect of my photography journey. This image, in particular, encapsulates both affection and the shared experiences of the past year. You will doubless see that most of the images down the list hold a special place in my heart because of the involvement of those I hold dear.

7: Närcon

This summer I had a very positive experience at Närcon. It is primarily a cosplaying convention where a bunch of nerds gather to celebrate art and culture they enjoy in a very direct and public way. This photo is one of my favourites from the occasion.

The play of darkness and symmetry, as well as the enveloping effect of Emelie’s sweater, adds depth to this image. It’s a testament to the beauty found in unconventional gatherings that celebrate art and culture. I look forward to visiting this convention in the upcoming year.

6: Behind the Scenes

Being a part of the theater world has its perks.

One of the first things I wrote for this webpage is ‘What is a SPEX?’. Well, I am still in it, enjoying my time being involved.

As a member of the audio-visual tech squad at SPEX, a theater organization, I’ve made precious memories. Documenting the original production based on Winnie the Pooh was a highlight, showcasing the behind-the-scenes magic that brings performances to life.

5: Tequila Sunset

A year of travel and transitions marked by a poignant image - a lone ship in open waters but surrounded by beauty.

Moving four times and living in three different countries, hopefully this photo signifies the end of a nomadic chapter.

At the time of posting this, I am receiving my first set of keys to an apartment I actually own. Acquiring keys to my own apartment brings relief and a sense of stability. It’s a reminder of the support network that has made these transitions less daunting. It has been especially nice to know that wherever I find myself, I always have some friends within reach.

4: Misty Forrest

When visiting my girlfriend’s family we went for a short walk around a misty lake near Gothenburg.

It made me realise how much I miss the rocky forrests of mid-to-northern Sweden. Funny enough, I just bought an apartment in Malmö - flattest part of Sweden, but hey, now I know it is not a permanent place for me. We will see where the winds take me.

3: Cigars with the Boys

There is a russian saying - ‘Don’t have 100 coinds, have 100 friends instead.’. I’ve heard this saying many times from my grandpa who was an incredible man, surrounded by a close gang of friends.

Now, four years after his death I find myself surrounded by amazing people. 2023 was a rather rough year. My chronic depression came back stronger than before, luckily I was quickly able to get help from the Swedish healthcare… helps to already be in the system. Anyhow, in the thick of my depression time there were many amazing humans there for me. You know who you are. BUT some very special thanks go to Einar, Elin, Elise and Ida. I love you guys. <3

This photo is from one of ‘Wine and Whine’ dinner I regularly have with my two friends Elise and Ida. It is very simple, but this photo, with its subtle glow and warm tones, encapsulates the camaraderie and support that helped navigate tough times.

2: Justin-ville Playground

This was me once.

I took this photograph by the playground right outside the first place I remember living. It is in a neighborhood called Justiniškės, which coarsely translates to Justin-ville. I, Justin, lived there as a small child I always found it corny, but funny.

I do not find this place fun anymore.

I changed, but Justiniškės never did. The neighborhood is still filled with mid-to-lower class inhabitants, a bunch of babushkas keeping an eye on the neighborhood, and kids playing in the post-soviet neighborhood. My feeling is that I’ve progressed in life - I’ve improved and done lots of good in the world in the process. My home neighborhood stayed the same. I wish for all of its inhabitants to live happier and healthier lives, the buildings get renovated, or at least the god damn pavement to be replaced so that all the shattered tile would be gone. The same shattered pavement is still there, if it isn’t more weathered.

My home neighborhood doesn’t fill me with hope for the future, but rather reminds me that income inequality in Lithuania has only increased since it was recorded in 1995. But that doesn’t paint the entire picture. In fact, the income distribution is one of the worst in EU. The ‘at-risk-of-poverty’ rate is well above the EU average, in fact, one in five lithuanians are at risk. It would be alright if it was the growing pains, but things are not improving.

1: Geneva Airport

This image calls to me. I keep coming back to look at it. Everytime I look, I feel like I see some other combination of details my mind did not group together last time. There are leading lines, repetition, framing, contrast, colour contrast, some people to ground the image, and most importantly for me, the colours bringing a sense of the romantisized air-travel of mid 1900s. There is some timeless quality to this image in my opinion. I like looking at it because I can not contain all of it in my brain, I just have to look again.

In a more personal way, I also like the feeling this image gives me. Sitting at the gate, waiting for lift-off. It is filled with anticipation. As I reflect on an eventful year filled with personal growth and achievement, this image stirs excitement for the future. Here’s to the adventures that await in 2024! <3

And hey, if you made it this far, join me on Instagram! Happy to hear from you.