Chapter 1: Capturing Moments of Light

On Easter morning, I stepped into my backyard and was greeted by a stunning sun halo. Excited, I rushed inside to grab my camera. After taking several shots, I realized I needed reflectors to better manipulate the light. Unfortunately, no matter how I adjusted them, the sun's brilliance was too intense for a clear capture. As I mused, "If only I could block the sun this much," I pinched my fingers together and clicked the shutter with my right hand, resulting in the beautiful image shown above.

This photograph holds special meaning for me due to the effort it demanded. Each attempt pushed me to rethink my approach and ignited a sense of hope. Then, unexpectedly, I heard the voice of my close friend and mentor, Matt Herron, echoing in my mind as if he were right beside me. He would often say, “The images and stories reside within you; it’s your duty to share them.” The moment became overwhelming—Easter morning, the sun halo, and fond memories of Matt, who passed away on August 7, 2020, during a gliding accident at the age of 89.

I shed countless tears in the months following his loss and even paused my photography. Without Matt's support and insight, it felt impossible to continue. Yet, I realized that his expectations of me remained unchanged, regardless of his absence. This realization brought me peace and the strength to finally say goodbye. As I couldn't speak to him directly, I decided to write a letter.

Dearest Matt,

My feelings for you are rooted in gratitude. Thank you for your friendship, your photography lessons, and the untold stories. I believe you are aware of the sun halo and felt your spirit within its radiant light. To your family, and in your beloved photography, soaring through the sky was your passion, so it’s no surprise I found you among those halos.

I’ve pondered how you might respond to the halo photograph. You would likely comment on the blue light filtering through my hand or the way my neighbor’s trees seemed to reach for the sun. I'm sure you would ask to see the shots taken before and after, so I’ve included them below for your critique. They illustrate how I’ve grown with each click of the shutter, as we both know that time waits for no one.

Photo by Stacy Johnson (before)

I once inquired why you chose to mentor me among so many. I felt I had much to learn. You told me, “Keep shooting, Stacy, and you will understand.” I continue to capture images, Matt, and I am beginning to grasp why you selected me. More importantly, I accept it. It lives in every photograph I take and every word I write. Now, you are part of that journey too.

Saying I miss you profoundly is an understatement. Yet, I recognize it’s time to let go. Rest assured, you’ve equipped me well. I will heed your advice: “Go out there and make your own history, Stacy!”

Farewell, Matt, my cherished friend. I’ll see you in the skies.

Photo by Stacy Johnson (after)

Chapter 2: Embracing New Beginnings

The first video, Beyoncé - Halo, showcases a stunning performance that encapsulates themes of love and light, resonating with the emotions tied to the halo experience.

The second video, Halo The Series (2022) | Official Trailer | Paramount+, provides a glimpse into a narrative that intertwines themes of connection and transcendent experiences, much like the personal journey of reflecting on loss and legacy.