During the pandemic, photographer Mary Rafferty and her friend Mariah Karson began a plunging ritual in Lake Michigan to shake off long days of stress, fears, and anxiety. For them, it created a space to connect and laugh. When Karson relocated to the stunning Azores Islands, the friends reconnected with each other and their plunging ritual. They decided to collaborate on a new series of photos, allowing their beautiful surroundings to inspire them. These images show glimpses of their trust, respect, and friendship. Even in paradise there is a lot of emotion and uncertainty to navigate.
To see more of Mary’s work, visit her portfolio.
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Portrait of Mariah on Sao Jorge Island, Azores, Portugal