There has been a lot of negative backlash from The Olivia Act (see original post here). I must say, I'm astonished. For people to make hateful comments to those participating and accuse us of doing this out of self-promotion is disgusting.
Let's be honest, I do use Facebook for self-promotion. Actually, that is my only form of advertising. However, that is not my reasoning for agreeing to donate a session to a local family FREE of charge. I wanted to participate to show support for those involved in the Sandy Hook tragedy and show support of a fellow photographer who I know sees the images of that little girl every time she closes her eyes.
His name is Tynan and he gained his angel wings in July of this year. I photographed Tynan several times during his long battle with leukemia and became close with his family. After his passing, his mom sent me a note that said, in part, "You will never understand the gift that you gave us." Her words resonated with me.
Since then, we have talked several times and I agreed to shoot other families going through similar situations. Why? Because I wanted to further my business? Because I think I'm going to make money off of these families? No.
It's because that's what I have.
I can't help them with a cure for cancer.
I can't comfort their pain.
I can't donate thousands of dollars to help with medical bill.
However, I CAN give them photographs of their child that they can cherish and hold on to forever.
This little man inspired me to do more, be more and give back in the same way that Olivia inspired the photographer who started The Olivia Project. Photography is what we have to give.
Do we think that we are making a dint in the Sandy Hook tragedy by offering a free photography session? No. There is no way for us to make things better or right what has happened.
But, if we can make even a small difference in one family's life, than that is SOMETHING.
What are you doing?
Let's be honest, I do use Facebook for self-promotion. Actually, that is my only form of advertising. However, that is not my reasoning for agreeing to donate a session to a local family FREE of charge. I wanted to participate to show support for those involved in the Sandy Hook tragedy and show support of a fellow photographer who I know sees the images of that little girl every time she closes her eyes.
I know because I've been there. Please meet my "Olivia." I was honored to meet this little cowboy last year.
His name is Tynan and he gained his angel wings in July of this year. I photographed Tynan several times during his long battle with leukemia and became close with his family. After his passing, his mom sent me a note that said, in part, "You will never understand the gift that you gave us." Her words resonated with me.
Since then, we have talked several times and I agreed to shoot other families going through similar situations. Why? Because I wanted to further my business? Because I think I'm going to make money off of these families? No.
It's because that's what I have.
I can't help them with a cure for cancer.
I can't comfort their pain.
I can't donate thousands of dollars to help with medical bill.
However, I CAN give them photographs of their child that they can cherish and hold on to forever.
This little man inspired me to do more, be more and give back in the same way that Olivia inspired the photographer who started The Olivia Project. Photography is what we have to give.
Do we think that we are making a dint in the Sandy Hook tragedy by offering a free photography session? No. There is no way for us to make things better or right what has happened.
But, if we can make even a small difference in one family's life, than that is SOMETHING.
What are you doing?
What are you doing to make a difference?
Reviewed by Maggie
on
December 19, 2012
Rating:
Reviewed by Maggie
on
December 19, 2012
Rating:
