If a picture is worth a thousand words, a photo at Christmas could fill volumes.
That's why a group of U of L alumni – headed by professional photographer Rod Leland (BFA '09) – teamed up in December to bring Help-Portrait to Lethbridge. The global movement calls upon professional photographers and other volunteers to work together to create portraits for families in need.
"It's really easy to focus on things like having food on your table and a roof over your head at Christmas, but I think the positive memories can be just as important," says Leland. "One of the ways we can create those memories for people is giving them the experience of a family photo."
The Dec. 3 event was held at the University's Dr. Foster James Penny Building in downtown Lethbridge. Nine photographers, four stylists and a dozen other volunteers, including U of L staff and alumni, were on hand to ensure 40 clients walked away with fantastic photos – and happy memories.
Reactions ran the gamut, says Leland. Some people were thrilled to have their hair and makeup done professionally, while others were ecstatic to have pictures of their kids. A few clients had never been photographed professionally.
"A lot of people were speechless – they just didn't know what to do or say, especially when they were handed their print," says Leland.
When words failed, hugs were happily given and received.