Now that the busy holiday season has passed, I would like to take a moment and share a very rewarding experience with you…..
In late November, I served as a volunteer photographer for Flashes of Hope, a national nonprofit organization of photographers who provide children suffering with cancer the gift of photography. Through the help of volunteer make-up artists, children and their families comfortably pose for pictures that preserve their beauty and grace, while facing tremendous health challenges.
I set-up my “studio” in the teen room of the Levine Children's Hospital.
Shooting for four hours, I was able to meet and interact with thirteen children, ranging from newborns to teenagers, and their families. I photographed each child individually and with their family members, hospital staff member, or a special item (teddy bear, blanket). Some of the children were visibly ill, while others were winning their battle with cancer.
This was a challenging, yet rewarding, experience. I was creatively challenged capturing the best of these ill subjects, while divulging a bit of their personality. One particularly challenging subject was in the neonatal intensive care unit (NICU) and the infant could not be removed from her machines.
It was such an honor to capture photographically for families, a few minutes when their child’s eyes sparkled, their lips formed a smile, and their illness, pain, struggle, and ongoing challenges were forgotten. Each family was provided, free of charge, framed photographs, proofs, and a CD of images that preserve forever their child’s beauty, grace, and personality.
I am sure that many of you have also had an experience that makes you stop, reflect, and be thankful for what you have; making all your problems and challenges seem so insignificant. I had to admire the strength that these children and their families exhibited in the face of adversity. Having this photo session during the holiday season, I am sure made this even more of a touching experience.
I look forward to my next opportunity to photograph another group of young children battling cancer and provide them with a “flash of hope.”
