The School Sessions - Liam's 1st Birthday
This family is one of my favourites, not only because I'm good friends with Jen (and she's a lovely human being) but because she was the first person to sign up after I posted about joining The School Sessions (she literally messaged me SECONDS after posting on Facebook). The School Sessions was started by a couple in Vancouver who had the dream that they could combine their talents to help others in need. The earthquake that happened in Haiti five years ago destroyed thousands of schools, one of them being the E.C.C.A school. However, the founders Mr. Duckenson and Mrs. Francois Laguerre continued to teach, as well as allow many kids to attend school for free.
And so The School Sessions was born. The idea was that photographers around the world would set aside one day to donate 100% of photography session fees to help rebuild a ten classroom school for over 200 kids in Haiti. Their goal was to raise $200,000 and hundreds of photographers from all over the world joined the cause.
I was so excited to join in this project - I loved the idea that using my talent and my work could help transform the lives of others. Jen was also so excited to join in the cause, and since Liam's 1st birthday was the following day, we decided to do a cake smash. I had never done one before, so I was excited to try something new, especially with a friend there to laugh with! As you can see, Liam had no problem being in front of the camera. The best part was when he would continually keep crawling over to me, biggest grin on his face, and simply sit beside me.
So far, the project has raised over $43,000, and so while we didn't quite reach our goal, the fundraising efforts will continue on. I know there are many organizations that are desperate for funding - even now that with the earthquake in Nepal. I encourage everyone who is able to consider supporting an organization that goes to helping those in need, especially in times of disaster.
Thanks to Jen, Brendan and little Liam for taking part in this cause! Hope you enjoy the photos!
