The 10 Year Project
Photo Session with Sherese
Above: Sherese Photo Session 2026
A Decade in Photographs
One of the things I love most about photography is that it allows me to study people.
People have always fascinated me. I am captivated by the uniqueness of every individual, by beauty in all its forms, and by the world that surrounds us. Photography has taught me to slow down and notice the details that might otherwise pass unnoticed.
I first met Sherese several years ago during a photo shoot for a local clothing shop. The photographs were intended to promote the shop’s clothing, but something else happened that day. We immediately connected. It was clear that we shared a love for creativity and the arts.
Sherese has a genuine appreciation for photography. She has a wonderful eye for capturing the places she visits, and even her sense of fashion reflects her artistic personality. She has a style that is uniquely her own.
Over time, we came up with an idea that excited both of us. We would meet once every year for ten years and create a new photo session together. The goal was simple: to document the passing of time.
In a way, I am documenting Sherese’s life.
Over the years I have photographed her graduation, moments with her family, and portraits that simply capture who she is at that particular stage of her life. Looking back through the collection, I have noticed one feature that has remained remarkably constant. Her peaceful smile. To me, it reflects the gentle and kind person she has always been.
This project has also reminded me of something that affects every one of us.
We all change.
If I am honest, change has never been easy for me. I sometimes find it difficult when people I care about grow in different directions or when friendships naturally become less close. Yet life continually reminds us that change is inevitable. Our personalities develop, our priorities shift, and our relationships evolve.
Our appearance changes too.
If you were to visit our home, you would find a photograph of my wife and me taken many years ago. Looking at it today, the first thing most people would probably notice is my hair. Or rather, the lack of it! As my son likes to joke, I now look more like Mr Clean than the person in that photograph.
Time quietly leaves its mark on all of us.
Perhaps that is why I find this project so meaningful.
Although Sherese and I only meet once a year for these sessions, there has always been a sense of ease and friendship between us. I like to think that this is reflected in the photographs we create together. They are not simply portraits. They are small chapters in a much longer story.
We still have a few more years before our ten-year project comes to an end.
And who knows?
Perhaps, when we reach that final session, we will decide to begin another decade all over again.
Reflection Questions
If you could document one person in your life through a photograph every year for the next ten years, who would you choose, and why?
When you look back at photographs taken several years ago, what changes do you notice most: your appearance, your circumstances, or the person you have become?
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About the Author
Sergio Morana is a photographer, writer, and educator based in Malta. Through photography and writing, he explores life’s meaningful moments, personal growth, and the stories that connect us.
📷 Photography: Holy Communions • Confirmations • Portraits • Family Sessions • Events