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Harry Connolly
Baltimore native Harry Connolly has been capturing stories in Sacred Places for over five years. He’s documented countless gatherings, charrette workshops, and everyday life across Baltimore and beyond. His passion for photography began at age six. Throughout his career, Harry published three books showcasing his work including his most recent, Design With Love. Introduced to Nature Sacred by his friend and Firesoul, Donald Quarles, he has documented the transformation of Kirby Lane Park, a project dear to his heart.
Kirby Lane Park Photo by Harry Connolly
For Harry, photography is more than an assignment; it’s about building relationships. “I don’t have ‘clients,’ I have connections that grow over time, especially with Nature Sacred. I visit Sacred Places and return saying, ‘Look at what I’ve found!’”
Kirby Lane Park Photo by Harry Connolly
Harry’s work highlights the resilience and beauty of people and communities often overlooked. “The work I do is never about me. I aim to celebrate those who do good work, often unrecognized, in communities that aspire to be better. Nature Sacred trusts me to help tell their stories.”
Ruby Ella
Ruby, a Washington, D.C.-based event and documentary photographer, began working with Nature Sacred in 2022, covering grand openings, seasonal celebrations, and our 2022 Firesoul Fest. Of all the Sacred Places Ruby has visited, the Marvin Gaye Greening Center holds special meaning for her. “I love that these spaces thrive through the dedication of volunteers who plant, grow food, and foster a sense of pride for the community.”
Crispus Attucks Park in Washington, D.C. Photo by Ruby Ella
Self-taught, Ruby began her photography career 14 years ago, initially photographing nature. “It’s a full-circle moment to now do this professionally,” she says. “Nature Sacred projects allow me to slow down, focus on the quiet beauty of these spaces, and capture their energy.”
For Ruby, photography is about preserving memories: “I love that my camera can hold a moment in time—a memory that will outlast those in the image.”
Maureen Porto
Based in Annapolis, MD, Maureen has been a professional photographer for 15 years, primarily focused on portraiture. Her passion for photography started at a young age: “I like to think I became a photographer at 10 when I found my father’s old Canon AE-1 and began documenting the world around me. We even built a darkroom in our basement so I could develop my own film.”
Naval Cemetery Landscape in Brooklyn, NY Photo by Maureen Porto
Maureen’s skills shine in the soulful Firesoul headshot series she captured for Nature Sacred, inspired by Martin Schoeller’s work, emphasizing the importance of trust and connection with her subjects. “Capturing an authentic portrait requires a level of connection and trust between photographer and subject. I’ve found that this often becomes a profound experience, with subjects sharing insights and stories that reveal the richness of our shared humanity.”
Firesoul Fred Smith Photo by Maureen Porto
She has traveled across the country, capturing the faces and stories of our Firesouls. Her portfolio includes coverage of events such as the grand opening of the Naval Cemetery Landscape in Brooklyn, a space she holds dear: “The cemetery, now a peaceful meadow, honors the land’s history while supporting a habitat for pollinators. Visitors walk on raised wooden walkways above the ground, offering a tranquil escape from the urban bustle.”
The work of Nature Sacred is brought to life not only through the spaces we help communities create, but also through the stories we tell. These stories—captured so beautifully by talented photographers like Maureen, Ruby, and Harry—reflect the heart and soul of the people and places that make our mission so meaningful. Through their lenses, we see the power of connection, the vibrancy of community, and the magic that Sacred Places inspire. Their work ensures that these moments, memories, and transformations are preserved and shared, spreading joy and inspiration far beyond the boundaries of each space.
Mullberry Gander Sacred Place Photo by Harry Connolly
We’re honored to collaborate with such gifted individuals who not only document these stories but also become part of them. Together, we celebrate the beauty of community, the resilience of nature, and the boundless possibilities of what we can create when we work together.
