While many workplaces closed during the COVID -19 pandemic, the research clinic where I work at as a medical photographer stayed open as an essential business. The employees had to quickly adapt and implement new clinical operating procedures as the pandemic accelerated. The clinic closed to non-employees for a short period in March and April to prepare for the re-opening and resume ongoing research studies.

I was called into work in early May after self-quarantining in my home since mid-March. My main work entails taking before-and-after photographs of panelists as part of the research. My job requires that I be in close proximity to panelists and I was hesitant about the risks of returning to work and interacting with the public. However, I was reassured that every precaution had been taken to ensure that everyone could complete their tasks safely. I was relieved and impressed by the adjustments made in the clinic. The clinicians did amazing work efficiently managing this unprecedented situation. I was happy to re-unite with my colleagues and see their faces (or their eyes at least!). Some were in desperate need of a haircut, but remained cheerful and true to themselves. Some panelists were understandably nervous as they arrived, while others were happy and chatting away. I left that first day back to work feeling confident that I would be able to stay safe while working during the pandemic.

Seeing the doctors and clinicians suited up in protective gear became the new norm. I decided to document this strange moment in time by taking portraits of my colleagues, including the clinic’s “Founding Father,” one of the most humble and beloved individuals in the office!

Each of these portraits were taken using my iPhone XS with its NOIR filter setting. The portraits show the clinicians and doctors working hard while maintaining their unique charm. On each of their masks I wrote a word that either described who they were, or something that they enjoyed.