Yesterday I had the true honor of assisting my incredibly talented friend and fellow photographer John Urban as he shot sessions for the amazing and inspirational program Flashes of Hope. The children we met were bright, silly, beautiful and courageous…but also very sick. The experience with these kids and their families was a difficult and emotional one for me, but would do again without a moment’s hesitation. Love, spirit and bravery were thick in the air as John temporarily froze time, celebrating the unbelievable strength of these glorious children. I thank them all deeply for including me in this extraordinary day. My heart will never be the same.
Inspired in part by this experience and also by my own gratitude for the blessings in my life, I have chosen a brilliant project called Giving is Awesome as a way to give back to families suffering in some way. The premise is pretty simple: photographers (547 of them, to be exact) across the country are banding together to offer custom photography to people who deserve it, but cannot afford it. So far, the total amount donated is $567,249 and is growing daily! I am beyond thrilled to be a part of it. But I need your help to make it happen.
You know someone. You know someone who’s experienced a tragedy, is struggling to stay afloat, is raising kids while holding down more than one job, or is volunteering selflessly despite extenuating personal circumstances. You know someone who can’t afford custom photography, but who would cherish it for a lifetime. You know someone who deserves a forever reminder of their family’s spirit, love, and beauty.
You know someone. I guarantee it. We all do.
And I want to know who they are. I want to give them the chance to experience complimentary custom photography – $750 worth, to be exact. Whether it’s canvas or albums, prints for grandparents or family far away, it’s in your power to give them the artwork they deserve.
Oh, and the best part? The person who nominates the winner receives a $100 print credit. What better reason to show some love could there possibly be, people?
The rules:
* You cannot nominate yourself, and the person nominated must sincerely be incapable of purchasing my services.
* The nominee must reside in the greater Madison area (I will travel up to 60 minutes outside of the city) . Tell me who you know, what they’re experiencing, and why they deserve my artwork. Please include a way to contact both your nominee and yourself, as well.
* You must e-mail me the full story (please put GIVING IS AWESOME in the subject line) : tara@tarakuhlow.com
I will be accepting nominations until midnight on May 11, 2009.
The winner will be announced on May 15, 2009…so get nominating! And please spread the word! I can’t wait to read all of your entries.
Open your heart to someone this spring…and thanks for giving me the opportunity to open mine.
♥ t.
