There are so many ways to give back to your community; either through time or talent, it doesn’t cost a thing, and the return is pretty awesome. Some of the ways I have been able to give back using my photographic skills is by delivering images of people I have captured on the streets via a text or a Facebook message, volunteering photographing holiday portraits for local supper programs and most recently my husband and I are providing family portraits for the Heart Gallery. The Heart Gallery is a traveling photographic and audio exhibit created to find forever families for children in foster care. Through Children Awaiting Parents, volunteer photographers capture images of children and their newly adopted families, helping to raise an awareness of children needing homes….And my very favorite thing to do is to help raise awareness!
For photographers starting out or looking to hone their skills, volunteering is the perfect way to do just that. There can be a lot of stress photographing that paid gig, where perfection matters, volunteering offers you the flexibility to get creative while developing your talent. There are many opportunities such as, city schools, homeless shelters, not-for-profits and more, the benefits are mutually rewarding.