Danielle Joy Photography

This photo from my recent session with really speaks to me, and sparks the creative piece in me. I challenge you to not only give Ben a follow and learn more about his story but to also THINK ABOUT THINGS DIFFERENTLY. What a simple message we can utilize more in life!

Ben was incarcerated for 18 years for a crime he did not commit. Since his release he has obtained his Bachelors Degree from UCLA, is graduating with his Masters of Fine Arts Degree from San Diego State this spring, and will be pursuing his Doctorate degree. Along with that, Ben has also started a nonprofit that provides creative arts education to those still incarcerated, and has multiple public speaking engagements as well as a book soon to be published. It was truly a special experience to work with him for some headshots while I was on vacation in San Diego. He’s tagged in the photos, go give him a follow and check out his journey!

One of my longtime family friends got married a couple years ago and I forgot to post the blog about it 🤷🏼‍♀️ featuring my cousin in the last photo in the post 👀 but check out https://daniellejoyphoto.com/2026/03/sonoma-county-photographer-travels-to-the-east-bay/