THE FRONT STEPS PROJECT:
Lynchburg, Virginia
“With so many feeling isolated or disconnected from friends, family and the rest of the world these days, something as simple as a happy photograph can help keep us going.”
— CNN'S RECENT ARTICLE ON #THEFRONTSTEPSPROJECT
Welcome! I am a documentary photographer, which means I spend a lot of time making images of families that are all about real life—the joys and the struggles, the laughter and the tears. I know you’re probably feeling stressed right now, but I would love to be able to provide a few minutes of cheer and a record of this piece of history we are living while still practicing social distancing.
Beginning Friday, March 27, I will be offering “Front Steps Portraits” of Lynchburg and Forest residents. I will organize participants by neighborhood and drive around town and capture super quick images of local families on their front steps. I will be posting these photos on Facebook and Instagram using #thefrontstepsproject. You may not be able to see your friends and neighbors at the grocery store or the gym or the school pickup line, but I hope you will find some familiar faces virtually.
My goal is to spread some cheer and remind everyone that we are all in this together even when we feel so isolated.
Participating in this project is also an opportunity to step up to help those who need it most right now in Lynchburg. After your quick session, I will email you the digital file of your portrait. (Christmas card? Done!) In exchange, I ask you to make a good faith donation to Miriam’s House through this GoFundMe campaign.
This is not a typical get-dressed-up-and-pose-for-the-photographer session! No one needs extra stress about finding matching outfits or convincing Dad to wear a nice shirt. Y’all want to stand outside in your pajamas and slippers? Go for it. Kids in mismatched clothes but you’re thrilled they got dressed? Sounds like my house.
Just be you.
Special thanks to fellow photographer Cara Soulia for kickstarting this project! Follow @thefrontstepsproject to see families from all over the country on their own front steps.
How It Works
You will know when I am coming. You can step outside, where I will be standing near your driveway or street, at least 10 feet away. I will take a couple quick shots and leave. I will physically interact with no one and touch nothing during these sessions.
After your quick session, I will email you the digital file of your portrait and a print release so that you may share, print, and frame as you wish!