I have decided to to benefit a very appealing charity by participating in Family Portrait Month, a national promotion during the month of October that allows photographers and families to raise money for children in need of smiles.  And, even though this is titled “Family Portrait Month,” I am not limiting portraits to just families.  All portraits will qualify for this promotion during the month of October - engagement sessions, individual portraits, boudoir sessions, modeling sessions, etc.

In 2005, PPA Charities Trustees invited Operation Smile to become its Charitable Partner. As such, Operation Smile, a highly respected worldwide organization, became the recipient of all contributions (made by PPA-member studios throughout the country) during PPA Charities’ annual Family Portrait Month charitable marketing promotion.

Every donation to Operation Smile makes it possible for another surgery to be performed by Operation Smile’s volunteers.

To date, PPA Charities’ donations to Operation Smile have totaled nearly $115,000. That translates into hundreds of operations made possible because photographers did what they do best: create images for families to treasure.

Think of all the smiles these portraits made possible—in your hometown and throughout the world—and you’ll know how important your efforts are!

During Family Portrait Month — October 2008 — we’ll donate $50 of your session fee (50%) to PPA Charities to benefit Operation Smile, which treats children around the world who suffer with cleft lips, cleft palates and other facial deformities. Celebrate your family by helping a child! Call now. Appointments limited! Family Portrait Month is sponsored by PPA Charities.

In addition, we are offering YOU your choice of special ofer for this promotion.  You can choose one of the following:

1. FREE 8×10 portrait
2. A free gift-size portrait for each child in the portrait — with a single wall portrait purchase.
3. 2 free gift-size portraits (great for grandparents!) with the purchase of a single wall portrait!
4. 12 free holiday cards — featuring your family portrait — with the purchase of a single wall portrait or
   gift-portrait collection!
5. $50 credit toward product purchase

You can read more about Operation Smile by clicking on the thumbnail below.

Min and Matt just arrived back in the United States after living in England for the last several years.  They were getting married here in Jacksonville before they moved to Massachusetts to teach at the University.  Their ceremony was held at Ribault Monument and we did some additional photos at Fort Caroline National Memorial.  The view at Ribault Monument is extraordinary - but Min’s dress was what caught my eye!