Free Sessions for Low-Income Families

[MHouser]

I need some help, advice, tips or any suggestions!

I have been trying to think of different ideas on how I can give back to my community as a photographer. I think I finally found the perfect idea!

I want to set up some free photo sessions for low-income families. I have most of the details sorted out. I just don't know how to approach the screening aspect.

Do I ask for proof of income?? I know local charities (like the Salvation Army) require a proof of income in order to be eligible for some of their services.

Any suggestions would be GREATLY appreciated! I want to be respectful, but I also don't want to be taken advantage of.

[CaptainNH]

Congratulations on your initiative, and thanks for your community spirited approach to photography.

Personally, I wouldn't be comfortable with asking someone for proof of income. I think that you might ensure that you attract the "right" demographic by a carefully directed info/marketing approach.

If you drop an ad on the interweb then you'll have less deserving people taking advantage, but if you approach it via a local support charity or perhaps a neighbourhood committee, then you would stand a better chance of helping those that really need it.

I also undertake similar shoots, though I do it through HELP Portrait and it's a bit more of an annual (read Christmas) event.

I'm also associated with the Now I Lay Me Down To Sleep foundation which does infant bereavement photography, though I stress that is a very confronting activity and not for everyone.

I also volunteer to shoot events for a number of my local charities.

There are a whole host of ways to give back to your community!

[MHouser]

I don't think I am comfortable asking for proof of income either.

I do plan on advertising this at places where low-income families visit. Local soup kitchen, shelter and an elementary school that is in the "low-income" side of town.

Hopefully that will help.

I think maybe I just need to assume that there will probably someone who will take advantage of this service - but the majority will (hopefully) benefit from it. I guess I just need to take the good, with the bad.

Thanks for your reply!

[SusanH1970]

Go to local places of worship and offer your services. They'll more than likely know of families in need and can contact them for you. Leave a few business cards and do up a flyer carefully wording what you're offering.

[qtox91]

im really interested in doing benefit photography like this and think that people doing things like this is just an absolutely awesome idea!!!!!