The Louisiana Tech University Photo Club and Art 173 classes in participation with the National campaign “Help Portrait” recently photographed our residents of the Ruston campus. Help Portrait is a project in which photographers give of their skills and resources to photograph those who would not normally be able to afford portraits of their own.

On December 12, 2009 photographers worldwide united using their time, skills, and equipment to give back to their communities. This is a movement of both professional and amateur photographers from all backgrounds hoping to make a difference during the holiday season.

Help-Portrait was formed by celebrity photographer Jeremy Cowart. “December 12th is about helping people who never imagined having their portrait made. Kids who don’t have their own families, those in need at children’s hospitals here and abroad, single moms, the elderly, the homeless or even your own neighbor. This is about giving pictures, not taking them. It’s about building relationships in your own community and giving hope,” shares Cowart.

So, in the spirit of giving, the group from Louisiana Tech came to our campus on Saturday, December 12th, and spent the day photographing our 106 residents. The pictures will be printed and returned to each participant for them to keep and have as their own.

We at Louisiana Methodist Children’s Home are grateful to all of the photographers and assistants who made this very special day happen.