Photography for Change: Aid Joe's Mission

Saving My Sanity: A 4-Year Nomad Photography Journey – Finding beauty in the world while escaping the chaos.

Hey everyone,

I’m reaching out because I need your help to embark on something big—something that’s both about preserving my own sanity and capturing beauty in the world.

I’ve just returned from an awe-inspiring journey across Italy, Croatia, Montenegro, Turkey, and Bosnia Herzegovina. It was a transformative experience, and I’ve seen firsthand how people from different cultures share so much in common despite their differences. The connections I witnessed were deeply moving, and I’m more determined than ever to capture that beauty and humanity through my photography.

The world around us feels chaotic, and I’ve made the decision to create a safe space over the next few years traveling, photographing the world, and documenting the beauty that often goes unnoticed amidst the madness. I want to showcase the universal connections between people across cultures, to remind us that the world is still full of light.

Rather than stay put and watch everything unravel, I’m aiming to escape the chaos, connect with local communities, and use my photography to highlight the humanity that binds us all. Along the way, I plan to give back in meaningful ways—donating a portion of the funds I raise to local organizations and charities in the places I visit, and also supporting causes like The Trevor Project and Human Rights.

A good friend recommended I start this campaign. Honestly, it’s probably a good idea since I’d much rather spend the next few years creating art than having to resort to starting an OnlyFans to fund my next meal (trust me, I don't want to start a nude modeling career at almost 60. Kidding, not kidding.)

In addition to capturing the essence of each place I visit, I’m hoping to work with a travel magazine as a photographer, sharing my journey and experiences through their platform. This isn’t just about me traveling—it’s about bringing attention to stories that often go untold and showcasing the world through my lens.

If you’d like to support this journey, your donations will help me with:

Photography gear and editing tools needed to capture stunning images

Travel expenses as I explore new places and communities

Creating and sharing photo stories, books, and prints that I can share with the world

Additionally, if you’re interested in supporting my work directly, you can check out the two photo books I’ve already created, which focus on universal human connections. A portion of the proceeds from each book goes to The Trevor Project and other causes I support.

Every donation helps me move closer to making this journey possible. By supporting this project, you’re not only helping me escape the madness but also enabling me to share the beauty I find and give back to those who need it most.

I’ll also be posting regular updates throughout the journey—sharing new photography, travel stories, and the amazing people I meet along the way.

Thank you for being part of this mission, whether through donations, shares, or just kind words. Let’s create something meaningful together.

With gratitude,

Joe Burns

P.S. This campaign will remain open as I continue to travel to capture humanity and our very similar needs and wants in life.

I will also at a later time will be dropping in some of the travel dates and locations.

I am very excited about bringing this project to life with your help, love and support.

Thank you again from the bottom of my heart.