Photographer:Cheriss May
Continent: North America
Country: United States
Project Title: Cheriss May “Soul Reflection”
Project Continent: North America
Project Country: United States
Nominated By: John McDermott
Seconded By: Frank Meo,

“Soul Reflection” is my personal story of how I found my voice through the power of storytelling. It’s an introspective on visually representing humanity and a personal journey of self-discovery, depicted by the hiding and emergence of self. Flowers are used as a symbol of the growth we undergo as humans as we age — our natural evolution within our connection to nature.

Hydrangeas are my main source of inspiration. Their color is determined by the PH level of the soil it is surrounded by much like we are products of the “soil” that surrounds us as humans. We emerge differently depending on the people and voices we allow into our life.

“Soul Reflection” is told in three stages/moments in my life.

1. “Unseen”
I was extremely shy, afraid to speak in social settings. I felt unsure, unseen. It was a period of uncertainty, not sure of my life’s direction.

2. “Emerging”
I found photography as a way of expression. It positioned me to come out of my shyness and connect with people. I learned to speak up for myself. A period of forward movement, and growth, developing a love for photography, yet searching for my purpose.

3. “Ascending”
Through my passion for photography, I found my purpose for storytelling. I’m surer of
myself, and the power of my voice. I feel seen. This is the joy and beauty of realizing my purpose.



Soul Reflection - Unseen

I felt unsure, unseen.

Soul Reflection - Unseen

I was extremely shy, afraid to speak in social settings.

Soul Reflection - Unseen

I’m not sure of my life’s direction.

Soul Reflection - Emerging

A period of forward movement, and growth.

Soul Reflection - Emerging

I found photography as a way of expression.

Soul Reflection - Emerging

Growth, yet searching for my purpose.

Soul Reflection - Emerging

Photography brought me out of my shyness as I learned to connect with people, and speak up for myself.

Soul Reflection - Ascending

Through my passion for photography, I found my purpose for storytelling.

Soul Reflection - Ascending

I’m surer of myself, and the power of my voice. I feel seen.

Soul Reflection - Ascending

My journey has led me to this moment —The joy and beauty of realizing my purpose.