Speaking at Christian Academy's Chapel

I was asked to share about 1000 Words of Hope at Christian Academy's 4th and 5th grade chapel. My daughter Zoe tagged along, and as you can see, was more interested in being out on the floor with me than sitting on the sidelines like we talked.

It was a great opportunity to rephrase the mission and goals of 1000 Words of Hope in a way that a 10 year old could understand. This was more challenging than I thought, as I felt the hopelessness of prospects of being an AIDS orphan and never seeing your parents again was a little heavy for the crowd.

This made for a great opportunity to relate our giftedness as photographers to the different talents and abilities that they have. Hopefully seeing family portraits from across the world helps them think a little about the things they can do for others.

It was a fun way to start the morning for sure!

YOU'RE ALL INVITED!!

Come to our open house this Sunday for desserts and coffee, and to see pictures and handmade goods from Ghana!


This is a great opportunity to support the work of 1000 Words of Hope. Call or email me questions. We hope to see you all there!

Wedding Photography Helps African Families

Last week we shot a wedding on beautiful Grayton Beach in Florida. This was actually the beach that Elizabeth and I got married on 5 years ago, so it was cool to be back. The pictures turned out great and it was awesome to be able to share with people there the work that we are doing in Africa.

Along with weddings, we do family and children's portraits as well. The proceeds go to provide families in Africa with portraits. Email me (matt@1000wordsofhope.org) or call 502-819-8857 to book a shoot.

Letters Out and Looking Toward October Trip

Earlier this month we sent out letters for raising support for 1000 Words of Hope. This has been a longer and more intimidating process than I anticipated, so naturally I am happy that it is officially underway. If you have not received any information about this project by mail and would like to, click here to get on our mailing list.

There is much to be excited about these days are we are solidifying plans to travel back to Ghana in October. We will back in Tamale for about 10 days, photographing families and working with friends there. After 10 days in Ghana we will fly to Nairobi, Kenya to photograph families there. We are extremely excited about the opportunity to shoot on both sides of the African continent in one trip.

It is a real honor to be a part of work like this. Everyday I am reminded of the hugeness of what we are doing. Though it is daunting at times, I am trying to embrace my own limitations when it comes to being apart of something that is so much bigger than I am. I know that the work will get done and with this, more people will have the joy and hope that comes with having a family portrait.

I am very excited to share in happiness like this again in October.