Giving Back/ Portland Child Photographer

I wanted to mention three wonderful organizations that I'm part of that allow photographers to give a little back to the community and people going through difficult times in their lives. There are quite a few organizations out there, but I think these three are particularly important. If you know of anyone who could benefit, please pass on this information or send them my way.

Now I Lay Me Down to Sleep is an amazing organization that provides private, beautiful portrait session for families whose babies have been born still, or will never leave the hospital. The work that photographers and volunteers do is beyond priceless and is near and dear to my heart. For families dealing with the grief and pain of losing a child, photographs can be an important part of the healing process, providing them a way to honor, cherish, and share the spirit of their babies. Portland is lucky in that it has a great network of hospitals and photographers who support the program, but there is always the need for more help. Even if you're not a photographer there are still ways to help including opportunities to volunteer as assistants (hint, hint).

The Littlest Heroes Project provides free photo sessions to children with serious illnesses or life altering disabilities. When families are dealing with the challenges of handling a difficult diagnosis, photographs are often understandably not at the top of their list of priorities. But when the battle is over, photographs are an important reminder of the journey each family has faced. I'm really looking forward to doing these "day in the life" type of session that capture the everyday moments that are so easily forgotten.

Think Pink Photography is a network of photographers who have come together to celebrate life and support the cause of fighting women and men who have been diagnosed with breast cancer. Photographers provide complimentary portrait sessions to individuals and families before, during, or after treatment.

All of these organizations provide an incredible service to families and the community. Please help spread the word, and they can always use donations.