Honoring Friendship Through Personal Photography: A Tribute to Josh

December 6, 2009

Personal photography projects have a way of capturing the emotions and memories we hold closest, and sometimes, they become a means of paying tribute to someone unforgettable. While shooting a series of water photos, the lyrics of the Grateful Dead’s Ripple ran through my mind: “Ripple in still water, when there is no pebble tossed, nor wind to blow.” These words felt especially poignant as I reflected on my dear friend Josh, whose cousin sang this song at his funeral. The images became more than just a creative project—they became a way to process grief and celebrate the remarkable person Josh was.

Josh was someone you couldn’t help but admire. Although we only knew him for a few months before his untimely passing in August while hiking in the Sierra Nevada Mountains, his impact was profound. His kindness, generosity, and unassuming nature left an impression that time hasn’t faded.

I first got to know Josh during the Fat Tire Mountain Bike Festival in Eureka Springs. For those of us involved, the festival is a whirlwind of hard work and joyful chaos, but Josh jumped in like he had always been part of the team. He brought laughter, camaraderie, and an energy that made the weekend unforgettable.

One memory stands out above the rest: the race to Lake Leatherwood, a 14-mile mountain bike ride through challenging terrain. The plan was for the three of us to stick together, but I struggled to keep up. Still, every time I lagged behind, Josh was there—waiting by the trail with his crooked smile. It’s such a small act, but it spoke volumes about the kind of person he was: thoughtful, patient, and genuinely kind.

Josh wasn’t just a friend; he was an incredible human being. During his year in Fayetteville, he started a postdoctoral fellowship in hydrology at the University of Arkansas, volunteered every Saturday for Spay and Neuter Arkansas, and somehow still found time to introduce us to the joys of grilled okra and endless laughter.

These water photos are my tribute to Josh. They reflect the stillness and depth he brought into our lives and the ripple effect of his friendship that continues even in his absence. Through photography, I hope to honor his memory and share the impact he had on everyone lucky enough to know him.

Rest in Peace, Josher

On a lighter note, here are a few photos I shot of the frost flowers the other morning. In case you’re curious…