“Always close to my heart”

"My Son is Always Close to My Heart"

I took this photograph last year. The man in the image is Barry, a complete stranger at the time. As we spoke, Barry began to share his story with striking openness. He told me about his son—who had tragically passed away at a young age—and showed me the tattoo he carries over his heart, a portrait etched into his skin as a permanent tribute.

As Barry lifted his shirt to reveal the tattoo, he said, "My son is always close to my heart." It was a deeply personal moment—raw, honest, and human. Despite his grief, Barry also spoke about his concerns for the city he lives in, and about life in general.

I felt humbled and privileged that he trusted me with this intimate glimpse into his life. This image is more than just a portrait of a tattoo; it’s a testament to a father’s enduring love, loss, and the quiet strength found in memory.