Last year when I went to meet a group of stranger's at a local Starbucks I had absolutely no idea that my life would forever be changed. I had heard about Help Portrait on Twitter of all places. Chase Jarvis posted about it and it caught my eye. I followed the trail to the HP community website where about 20 other photographers had gathered and a meeting was set. Uncertain of my skills and completely self conscious I offered to help. And that was the beginning.
Interacting with families and individuals who come in feeling uncomfortable and leave feeling better about themselves is what Help Portrait is all about. Giving hope to those who have lost it. Making them feel important and loved. I came home knowing that I wanted more. More of photography, more interaction with such talented, giving people, more opportunities to make people feel special and beautiful. I came home knowing that I wanted to be a professional photographer. And I came home feeling a little guilty, like I had gotten way more than I had given.
This year I took on a different role. Instead of acting as a photographer I organized the volunteers and made contact with the two organizations that we served. It was a much bigger experience for me. We expanded our group. Not only did we grow in volunteer numbers but we were able to add two more locations and reach more people.
All in all we had 54 volunteers taking portraits of 404 people! And next year we will reach more!
To see some of the behind the scenes photos from this year's event go to our Facebook page.
I would love to have you join us next year! Mark your calendar for Saturday, December 3, 2011. Like our Facebook page, follow us on Twitter and join the Help Portrait community site! Of course I will be posting info here on this blog as well!
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