Monday starts Charity Fest, an experiment  to help spread the word about photographers who not only believe in giving back, but who can walk the talk!  In just the first 48 hours after making the request, thousands of photographers heard about the idea and better yet, a few already sent me submissions.

Remember, there is no such thing as a project too small.  In fact, the first couple submissions I received ranged from from a couple supporting their son’s school system to a state wide educational event.  The message is simple to understand…as a photographer you have a very unique skill set and the ability to give back to your community in so many different ways.  Your efforts, no matter what the cause, are helping to make the world a better place and if we have to do it one project or community at a time, who cares?

I’ve already received comments that reading what other people are doing in charitable causes is giving photographers new ideas on how they too can get involved and create their own charitable moments.  

Karen Sperling wrote on face book:

I saw your posts about photographers who give back. At the same time, I was getting feedback that not only were my tutorials helpful, but also that I was good at marketing…Your posts and this feedback gave me an idea: to put this “marketing”–or as I think of it, encouraging– to additional good use, and to donate 10% of all proceeds from the deluxe hardcover edition of Painting for Photographers to charity!

So, to those of you who have submitted your project descriptions so far and to those of you working to get me your information by December 8, THANK YOU!  Your inspiration is taking all of us to new heights and together we just might create a new level of awareness and appreciation for the professional photographic community!

Note:  Submissions need to be in my mailbox at skip@mei500.com by December 8. 2-400 words with images 3×4, 300 dpi