By Kaitlin Rogers
@kaitlinrogers8

Artist Note:

The idea for this collection grew out of the current refrain of my daughter’s days, “No help. BySELF.” The project became my playful attempt to capture the fierce desire for independence that is characteristic of age two.

While Noa was adamant that she most certainly did not want my help, I stood nearby and witnessed concentration and persistence. Her determination, “No help. No help. Noooo help,” taught me repeated lessons in patience. Her eventual resignation, “Okay. Help,” modeled humility. The triumph in her eyes upon completing a task—zipping the zipper, buckling the buckle, buttoning the button—reminded me how capable young children are.

Kaitlin is a writer and photographer living in her hometown with her husband and two children. She loves checking the mail, watering the flowers, and digging into the truth of the matter. Ordinary days are some of her favorite days. Photography and writing are Kaitlin's methods for studying and appreciating. You can see more of her photography on her website and read more of her writing on her Substack, Good Exposure.