So, a bunch of photographers around the country (and the world) have gotten into giving this holiday season with the … awesome and appropriately named, giving is awesome giveaway. There are now over 100 photographers offering services to families who couldn’t typically afford a professional portrait session. Since I’m always looking for a way to give back, I thought this was the perfect opportunity.

So here is the basic info on what I’m giving and to who:
We all know someone who is having a tough time making ends meet this holiday season. We know people who have suffered hardships this year and maybe are working multiple jobs just to pay the bills. We know people who are selfless and giving even as they are themselves in need. These people would absolutely cherish custom photos of their families, even if it’s nothing that they could ever dream of paying for right now.

So…I want you to let me know who they are, and I want to give them a portrait session and products worth $1000. AND, the person who nominates the winner receives a $200 print credit as well. Win, win.

Here are the rules:
-You can’t nominate yourself
-The person must be genuinely in need and unable to pay for a session with me on their own
-The nominated family has to live in PA or NJ

E-mail me the full story to katie@kmcmenamin.com and make sure you tell me as much as possible about what the family you’re nominating is experiencing and why they deserve this session. Also, please give me contact info for yourself and your nominee.

The winner will be selected on Christmas Eve…so nominate now! I can’t wait to read all of your entries!

Open your heart to someone this holiday season – and thanks for giving me the opportunity to open mine.

This past Saturday Lauri (of Lalee Photography) and I had the pleasure of photographing a very special little boy, Nicky. Nicky’s parents got in touch with me through the American Child Photographer’s Charity Guild, a volunteer based organization of photographers devoted to helping children in need and their families. I can’t really put into words how wonderful and inspirational Nicky and his parents are. They are just such warm, caring, genuine people.

Nicky was diagnosed with MLD when he was two years old. MLD is a rare genetic disorder that currently doesn’t have a cure. Even faced with this diagnosis, Nicky’s parents have continued to live their lives and to fill Nicky’s life with hope, happiness and positive spirits. They will tell you that even though Nicky cannot walk or talk, he is still a very special boy who is here to fulfill God’s purpose for him. There are no accidents and the gifts which Nicky can offer the world are unique and important.

Here are some of my favorite photos of Nicky and his family.

Doesn’t he look handsome in his sunglasses?

Nicky’s dad made his room which is incredible and filled with a race car theme…complete with a race car bed. Check out that checker board pattern on the wall!

Sitting on top of the fish tank in the living room was this frame, with the spanish words for “I love you very much.” I think this really captures the feeling in their home and lives. Thank you so much Nicky, Sandra and Carlos for welcoming us into your home. I hope you enjoy your photos.

Here are is a slideshow of a few more photos from Nicky’s session.

Please visit Nicky’s webpage to read more about this inspirational family and how you can help researchers to someday find a cure for MLD.