The Power of a Family Portrait
A family portrait is more than just an image; it’s a powerful tool for building and preserving a sense of identity and connection. For many, family photos are a given—a cherished record of milestones and everyday moments. Yet for families living at the margins, the cost of a professional photo session is often out of reach.
A portrait can be a source of pride, a legacy for future generations, and a reminder of a family’s strength and resilience.
About the Project
Our Portraits of Connection: I love your smile 2026 initiative provides a small but meaningful moment of joy and an enduring memento for families who might otherwise go without. Families will receive a professionally captured portrait of their loved ones during a free, outdoor, two-day community event.
This project is an investment in human dignity, family pride, and community well-being.
Each portrait is more than a photo—it is a celebration of identity, belonging, and shared history.
Help us reach more people! Download your flyer and share it far and wide. Download Your Flyer
How Your Support Makes a Difference
Your contribution directly covers cost for:
- Photographers’ time
- Printing supplies and packaging
- Event logistics and volunteer coordination
With your support, every family receives a beautiful portrait and a lasting memory to cherish.
Volunteer with Us
2026 Dates coming soon…
Be part of something meaningful—help families capture moments they’ll treasure forever! Many families can’t afford professional photos, and your time can give them a gift that lasts a lifetime.
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Photographers – Bring your DSLR or mirrorless camera and memory cards. Application open now, Scroll below for details.
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Photography Assistants – Support photographers by guiding families and helping communicate with the editing team. Your friendly presence keeps sessions smooth and organized. Bilingual encouraged to apply.
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Check-in Station– ensures a smooth and organized intake process for families. Responsibilities include reviewing registration forms to confirm all sections are completed, submitting paperwork to the Registration Tracker, and clearly guiding families on next steps — including confirming their assigned photographer and explaining that they will be called when their session is ready. Attention to detail and clear communication are key for this role. Bilingual encouraged.
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Registration Tracker – oversees the flow and organization of all family appointments. Responsibilities include organizing registration paperwork by time slot and assigned photographer, updating the CLIENT REGISTRATION sheet in real time, and ensuring the photography schedule stays on track. This role requires strong organizational skills and the ability to monitor details throughout the event.
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Registration Admin – The Registration Admin supports pre-event preparation. This volunteer calls families to confirm appointments, updates the CLIENT REGISTRATION system as needed, and ensures all information remains accurate and current. This role requires professionalism, strong communication skills, and comfort using a laptop and google sheets. Must be able to be in the office during business hours.
- Packaging Helpers – Organize and prepare printed portraits so families can take home their special memories. This role requires attention to detail and careful handling of printed portraits. Must be able to be in the office during business hours.
Meet Our Featured Portrait Artists
Our featured photographers donate their talent to create lasting memories for families in our community. In return, we proudly showcase their work and professional profiles here.
Are you a seasoned photographer interested in joining our featured team?
Submit your portfolio for consideration. Selection is based on portfolio strength, experience working efficiently with families, and alignment with our community-centered values. Please send your website or links to your portfolio to Genesis gvondergeest@sonomacan.org to be considered.
