Volunteering and giving back has been a huge part of my life since I was little. It started with my Mom and serving in a soup kitchen when I was about 7. So, when the opportunity to give back can work hand in hand with my passion, sign me up!
In 2011 I heard about an organization called Help-Portrait. This organization hosts a worldwide event on the same day to not “take” someone’s portrait, but instead “give” it. I was unable to participate in 2011 due to scheduling conflicts, so I jumped on the chance to volunteer in 2012.
The event here in Las Vegas is held at the Shannon West Homeless Youth Center. We had the opportunity to photograph homeless youth, some that have never been told they are beautiful or even matter. There were professional make-up artists and hair stylists on hand to help provide a rock star experience.
The premise behind the event was to bless these youth, but in turn, we were the ones blessed. It was such an amazing experience to get to hear their stories and see how even out of all the “bad” that had happened in their lives, they have the perseverance to rise above it. I can’t wait until next year!
Here is the link to the video from the 2012 event if you are interested in watching it!
And if the day wasn’t awesome enough, I got to shoot alongside two dear friends and fabulous assistant (my dear hubby of almost 14 years)!
Lacey of Lacey Buchorn | Photographer, Mary of Mary Lynn Photography and Tammy of Inspired Images of Tammy.