Portraits with Purpose

I love being a photographer and I am thankful to have a gift that brings such joy. This job has given me the opportunity to develop very special relationships. It is a privilege to give back by using my photographing for a greater purpose. Portraits with Purpose is my philanthropic initiative to raise money and awareness for the significance of mental health. I am incredibly grateful that I may connect my photography to such a meaningful cause.

Portraits with Purpose will be offered twice a year. These sessions are open to any of my previous clients. These established relationships are so special to me and make these mini-sessions so much more meaningful. All the images will be in Black & White. The goal of the project is to represent the unique personality and value of each person while minimizing distractions. Prints or products are available to purchase.

My inspiration for Portraits with Purpose came from The Project Beauty, created by Thomas Nguyen. He offers mini sessions as a fundraiser for organizations that offer mental health services to teens. Thomas has given me his blessing to start my own version of this Project that will be open to any of clients.

100% of the session donation and the money paid for products will go to the designated beneficiaries.

Donations of $250 or more are tax deductible and paperwork will be provided from the beneficiaries.

What to Expect

Beneficiaries

Gallery

The Experience

I absolutely loved this shoot with Jo. I was really excited that she asked me to participate because I think that this is such an important topic that needs to be discussed more often. I loved being able to arrive without makeup and in casual clothing as I felt that the pictures were able to capture natural beauty which was so refreshing. I enjoyed talking to Jo and sharing my personal experiences in relation to this topic.

I appreciated being able to confide in such a trustworthy source. Walking away from the shoot, I felt even more confident in myself and grateful that I had this time with Jo.

Astrid

I expected to be more nervous during the shoot due to the instructions not to wear makeup. Perhaps I'd have been more nervous if it wasn’t Ms. Jo behind the camera. It’s a vulnerable feeling to know the details privy only to yourself are on display for the eyes of a camera; subtle scars and unruly eyebrows that have been left untouched for months. Whatever insecure thoughts I had were brushed away by the knowledge of the point of this project, and that you can always trust Ms. Jo to capture something you were never able to see in the mirror yourself.

Annie

This Project of being photographed in black and white is great! I personally relate it to the idea of understanding the light and dark in a person and understanding that both are okay. I thought the experience was amazing! The shoot was so fun and the conversation around mental health needs to be happen more often.

Madeleine

I had so so much fun today and I loved just getting to really talk with you. It was definitely a great break in my week and helped me get some confidence back! Thank you again so much Jo! Thank you for including me in this amazing Project!!

Laila

It was very interesting taking photos in such a raw form without makeup. It's really amazing to see a formal photo of yourself in that very natural state; something that should be shown more in photography. I always love taking pictures with you, especially when they are for something so meaningful.

Ellie

I felt honored to be asked to be a part of the Project because I love the message behind this campaign. I also trust Jo's vision and she always makes everyone feel very comfortable and confident. I realized the importance of recognizing the many sources of pressure in our lives and the effects they have on all of us. I also realized the importance of appreciating our natural selves and feeling confident even if it isn't always easy.

Mackenzie