Help Portrait,a global movement of photographers using their time, gear and expertise to give back to those in need, was founded by celebrity photographer Jeremy Cowart in 2009.
Photographers are crowd sourced using the Help Portrait website. Help Portrait's mission is to GIVE the pictures, not take them. Portraits are not for the photographers portfolios, websites, or for sale. Money isn’t involved. It's a chance, during the holiday season, to give a family or individual something they may never have had before - a professionally produced portrait.This year, in Victoria, Alan Smith took the lead on organizing and recruiting an amazing team of photographers and volunteers. People involved included hairdressers, baristas, community members and coffee shop owners.On Saturday December 4th Relish Food and Coffee 920 Pandora gratiously offered the use of their space. The day started early, at 8am, with set up of stations - 3 photography, 3 printing, and 2 hairdressing.
By 9am everything was in place. People slowly trickled in, and were guided through the entire process by hosts who remained with them as they progressed from hair, to actual photo session, and then to printing. Participants were thrilled with the results. In all over 30 people volunteered their time for the community. A total of 148 individuals and/or groups had their portraits taken. Thanks to all involved.Help Portrait Victoria is already looking forward to next year. On their wish list is a larger space - 2000 to 4000 square feet - that would allow for additional photography, hair and even makeup stations. If you know a building owner with vacant space, please contact Alan.Makeup artists would be welcome too.People who want to get involved in 2011 can join the Help Victoria group. Planning will start late summer of 2011.Help Portrait 2011 is Saturday December 3rd.

