Professional photographer Lisa Reid has captured images of families and households in her neighbourhood, showing solidarity on their front porches in the face of the coronavirus.
The project was a personal one for Reid, who didn’t do it for financial gain. She simply wanted to create a portfolio of happy pictures for others to enjoy.
What inspired you to start this project?
In a time dominated by negative news, I wanted to share some positivity. I believe that as photographers we have been given the gift of telling stories. We create images that are beautiful on the surface, but also give a glimpse into what lies beneath.
There are different family constellations: caretakers, couples, single parents with older kids, families with younger kids. Some families have their helpers living with them, and others, their grandparents.
I also wanted these pictures to remind my neighbours and friends not only about the difficult times, but also about the times when we were never closer to our family members at home. Now we have been gifted time. We are forced to slow down, spend time with our family. Despite the challenges it brings, use it wisely, because this too shall pass.
What were people’s reactions to the idea?
The feedback was overwhelmingly positive. Everyone felt it was such a wonderful idea to document these unique times and circumstances. They were also excited to have a memory of their family from these times.
Our community is usually very active, and everyone walks in the streets … kids playing, people chatting and walking dogs. Since the lockdown, we don’t see each other anymore. Seeing the final collage made me really happy.
How has the present situation affected your business?
We really are going through some crazy times. I went from being fully booked during March and April to zero bookings in just a few days. A lot of my business comes from visitors and I don’t think we will be seeing any of those anytime soon, so this is a great time to grow my local business.
If anyone is interested in a family, newborn or couples photoshoots, corporate portraits or bespoke projects, please reach out to me. I would be happy to get in touch as soon as the curfew has been relaxed and I am allowed to work again. In my line of work, social distancing is easy [smiles].
| For more info about Lisa Reid from Blank Canvas, visit
www.lisareidphotography.com.
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