A Coquitlam photographer is hoping the smiles she gets from her clients when she photographs them will put smiles on the faces of those enduring the B.C. wildfires.
Ann-Marie Ryan is offering her services as a portrait and family photographer for mini photo sessions Saturday and Sunday at Lafarge Lake in exchange for a minimum $5 donation that will go to help wildfire victims either through the Red Cross or the Coquitlam Fire and Rescue. Ryan will also have make-up artists and hair stylists from the Blanche Macdonald Centre on hand to offer primping and preening services (but no cuts) for an additional donation.
Ryan, who graduated from photography school two years ago and is in the process of establishing her own studio, said a personal connection moved her into action. She has friends and family in some of the areas affected by the fires and has fond memories of time she spent at the Flying U Ranch in 100 Mile House when she was a child.
“It hits home,” Ryan said. “It hurts.”
But as Ryan cast about for ways she could help, she kept coming back to her life’s passion.
“I love photography, it makes me feel right at home,” she said. “I love the smiles it brings out in people.”
Ryan said she’s doing the shots on location at Lafarge Lake because it’s her favourite place to shoot portraits.
“Lafarge Lake is gorgeous,” she said. “The light, the scenery, it’s just beautiful.”
Ryan’s portrait sessions run from 9 a.m. to 6 p.m. Saturday and Sunday. Look for her and her camera near the amphitheatre stage. Everyone who poses for a portrait will get one shot emailed to them. Pets are also welcome. For more information, go to www.facebook.com/events/325028841259945.
