‘No Mud, No Lotus:’ Photographer Jordan Somers Reflects on the 2026 Converge Class Photos
From left to right, Deaunte Damper, Trae Holiday, Erik Kalligraphy, Jordan Somers, Takiyah Ward, and Besa Gordon pose in the Black Media Matters Studio.
After photographer Jordan Somers recently photographed the Converge family in all their glory, he left the Black Media Matters Studio with resounding reflections in classic Jordan style. His profound observations both behind the camera and as a deep thinker are reasons why he plays a critical role in the Converge Media family.
From candid shots to portraits, Jordan shared that the photoshoot felt natural, attributing his flow state in the studio to the comfort and familial understanding he has with the entire team.
"Everyone I consider family now. That's what it's all about. Feeling that depth, connection and acknowledgement and appreciation, seeing each other, knowing each other,” he said.
Jordan noted how essential it was for the whole crew to reunite in the studio and feed into the family’s collective energy, particularly in light of “the depth and heaviness” of 2025. But through life’s jolting ups and downs, the shoot was, in his eyes, a moment of palpable positivity that was more important than ever to not just capture on camera, but hold onto in 2026.
"It's what Thích Nhất Hạnh, that Buddhist monk said: no mud, no lotus,” he said. “It's finding gifts in the seemingly unfavorable.”
Through Jordan’s lens, we are reminded of the journey we share, our insatiable need to push through setbacks with confidence, and the importance of taking on new experiences that energize us to progress as one. While capturing the Converge family’s united existence, Jordan sees our light beam bright. And in turn, we get to see his.
Check out Jordan’s work at jordansomers.com.
