Portraits to Benefit RED BEANS PARADE during Quarantine
As we all know times are strange- people are isolated, out of work, and confused about the trajectory of our world and economy. As New Orleanians, it is especially difficult because we are a culture that comes together in times of crisis. We gather on the street for second lines, parades, at a festival, or in our favorite music venue listening to our favorite band.
I am personally struggling because as a photographer, my business depends on the city’s events and the clients I photograph. It isn’t just a question of how long this lock down will last, it is a question of how long it will take for the city to re-book conferences, conventions, and return to normal. At one press conference, Mayor Cantrell mentioned New Orleans will feel the effects of Covid19 long past the rest of the country. Rebuilding the tourism economy could take 1-2 years, but all of that is contingent on how we deal with the crisis now.
So with no work in sight, and exhausting all of my Netflix options, I thought it was time to do something. I saw a family Photographer out of Massachusetts was coordinating with some of her clients to document quarantine life. She was taking front step portraits in quick, 5 minute sessions- HOW BRILLIANT!
I immediately knew New Orleans needed this so I decided to start PORCH PORTRAIT NOLA. Abiding by all CDC health guidelines, I am venturing out every day to document New Orleanians on their porches and stoops. I bring a long lens and stay either across the street or on the side walk; they come out and we spend a few minutes together. I am not asking for any compensation, just that they donate $5 or $10 to the Krewe of Red Beans. They are coordinating meal delivery to medical workers on the front line all while supporting local restaurant business and hospitality workers. My payment has been seeing their smiling faces and helping this great cause.
Please take a look at what we’ve done so far. These people are the heart beat of New Orleans and I hope they bring you as much joy as they’ve brought me.
Side note: if you would like to sign up for your Porch Portrait, please send me a text at 504-319-5935 or a direct message via Instagram: @adriennebattistella. Include your first/last name, address, and email.
As of right now, I am limiting my route to Orleans Parish, Algiers, and Gretna. If you don’t want a portrait or live out of the area, I encourage you to donate what you can to RED BEANS PARADE. Help feed the frontline.
