By Max Bowen-max.bowen@northstarreporter.com
Just because it’s a pandemic doesn’t mean you can’t get your family photo.
Photographers across the country—like so many other local business owners—have seen their work come to a halt amidst the lockdowns ordered to slow the spread of COVID-19. But many are still able connect with their friends and neighbors and support others through the Front Porch Project, including Deb Bettencourt, owner of Deb Bettencourt Photography in North Attleborough. When the pandemic canceled all her work for the spring, she opted to join the movement and help local businesses.
“It’s nice to get dressed up and pack my bag and head out the door,” she said.
Those who take part assemble on their porch and are given one digital file, in exchange for a promise to support a local business and share on social media with #frontporchproject, a “pay it forward” approach. This can include buying a gift card, purchasing a takeout meal, or promising to help those who are closed down for the time being.
“The more people see other people support the local economy, the more likely they are doing it,” she said.
Bettencourt put the word out and on Thursday photographed four families, the first of which was the Slobogans, who own The Preservation Framer and host a variety of events in the store. Since then she’s arranged more photo shoots with her neighbors, friends, and the people she sees at the gym.
“It’s kind of cool that as we keep distance, there’s such unity,” said Bettencourt. “The photos are one of those things. Here’s what we made of it. we took a picture here’s who we were hunkered down with.”
To arrange your Front Porch Photo, contact Deb at deb@debbettencourtphotography.com or visit her site, https://bit.ly/2UFPGiV.
