Ak's GraFix & Photo

08/08/2026

13/07/2026

Inspiring doesn’t even begin to scratch the surface and we couldn’t be prouder to be able to help Sass Magazine share their story. Photographing these power women who have overcome so much is such a privilege and an honor. 🫶

29/06/2026

27/06/2026

There are moments behind my camera that stay with me long after I put it away.

Last night's Frederick Pride Parade was one of those moments.

Every year, I find myself getting a little emotional watching our community show up for one another. It's in the cheers from the sidewalks, the embraces between friends, the overwhelming joy, and the simple reminder that every person deserves to be seen, celebrated, and loved for exactly who they are.

But if I'm being honest, it's the children that get me every time.

Watching little faces light up as they wave rainbow flags, dance alongside the parade, and see a community celebrating people for being exactly who they were created to be gives me so much hope. My hope is that this next generation grows up believing that kindness comes naturally, differences are something to celebrate, and that everyone deserves to belong.

Love is love.

You are enough.

The truest, most beautiful thing any of us can be is ourselves.

Thank you, Frederick, for continuing to show what community looks like. Thank you to everyone who marched, volunteered, organized, performed, and cheered from the sidelines. Your joy was contagious, and it was an honor to capture these moments.

I've shared the gallery below. Feel free to tag yourself, your family, your friends, or your organization. Happy Pride. ❤️🏳️‍🌈

27/06/2026

There are moments behind my camera that stay with me long after I put it away.

Last night's Frederick Pride Parade was one of those moments.

Every year, I find myself getting a little emotional watching our community show up for one another. It's in the cheers from the sidewalks, the embraces between friends, the overwhelming joy, and the simple reminder that every person deserves to be seen, celebrated, and loved for exactly who they are.

But if I'm being honest, it's the children that get me every time.

Watching little faces light up as they wave rainbow flags, dance alongside the parade, and see a community celebrating people for being exactly who they were created to be gives me so much hope. My hope is that this next generation grows up believing that kindness comes naturally, differences are something to celebrate, and that everyone deserves to belong.

Love is love.

You are enough.

The truest, most beautiful thing any of us can be is ourselves.

Thank you, Frederick, for continuing to show what community looks like. Thank you to everyone who marched, volunteered, organized, performed, and cheered from the sidelines. Your joy was contagious, and it was an honor to capture these moments.

Find the full gallery here:

https://acaciabowens.smugmug.com/Events/Pride2026

Happy Pride. ❤️🏳️‍🌈

This gallery hosted by SmugMug; your photos look better here.

27/06/2026

12/06/2026

12/06/2026

Ever wonder where those gorgeous Lion’s Mane and Oyster mushrooms come from? Meet the artists-turned-farmers behind Mama Quilla Mushrooms!

In 1990, they traded city life for a stunning farm at the base of Maryland Heights, right where the Shenandoah and Potomac rivers meet. Today, they grow their incredible Shiitakes on natural logs nestled right between a peaceful pond and a fast-moving creek.

Why the name? Mama Quilla is the Inca goddess of the moon. They love to think of their mushrooms being gently nourished by her moonlight as they grow through the night.

Let's show them some love this weekend! 🍄‍🟫🍄

Field Fresh Farmers Market
🍄 Located at The Frederick Fairgrounds - Lot A: Patrick & Franklin intersection
797 E. Patrick St. Frederick MD 21701

🍄‍🟫 Saturdays: 9 AM - 1 PM

https://www.mamaquillamushrooms.com/
Photo credit: Ak's GraFix & Photo