Basement Powwow

One of the most unforgettable shoots I’ve ever had took place in a setting most wouldn’t expect — the basement of a tall building tucked away in the heart of Downtown Phoenix, Arizona. The world was just beginning to find its balance again. COVID-19 restrictions had finally eased enough to allow Native and Indigenous people to gather — to reconnect, to celebrate, and to breathe life back into the culture we carry with us every day.

There were no frybread stands, no Navajo tacos sizzling nearby, and no mutton sandwiches to bring that familiar comfort we all know — but what the room lacked in scent, it made up for in spirit. The drumbeats echoed through the concrete walls, deep and grounding. The singers’ voices rose with strength and purpose, creating a sacred rhythm that stirred something ancient in all of us. It wasn’t just a gathering — it was a reclamation. A celebration of who we are, in a space not meant for ceremony but transformed by our presence. It felt like a powwow in the basement. And it was beautiful.

As a proud Navajo and Marine Corps veteran, moments like this are personal. I don’t just bring a camera — I bring a lifetime of connection to the people and the stories I document. This wasn’t just about taking portraits. It was about witnessing resilience. It was about showing, through every image, that our culture is alive, evolving, and unshakably strong. Each photo captured from that day speaks to the heart of our community — our laughter, our songs, our togetherness. Even underground, surrounded by concrete and fluorescent lights, joy and identity flourished. It wasn’t just a photoshoot. It was a moment of unity — a powerful statement of our shared identity as Indigenous people. Our stories, our songs, our drums, and our presence filled that space like a prayer. I’m endlessly thankful to have been there, camera in hand, heart full. To document that moment was a privilege, and it reminded me exactly why I do what I do. This experience has only deepened my commitment to telling our stories — capturing the spirit, strength, and beauty of our people through every frame. At Bitterwater Photography, that’s my mission: to ensure our culture is not only remembered but celebrated — now and for generations to come.