vedhead Photography

Three years ago vedhead Photography did not exist. After college, I worked Corporate America for almost twenty years. I had become a creative who only enjoyed art as a spectator, attended gallery openings for breathtaking exhibits, and shot photos for personal use. When one of my best friends committed suicide unexpectedly and lost nine more people in the span of seven months - I lost everything.

I coped with the unexpected losses of friends and family by diving into photography. After losing my job, relationship, and  immersed in the grieving process, I sought solace in writing and photography.

Over the past two years, I've hit several milestones with my art. In 2017, I became the Senior Art Contributor at LIB Magazine . The gig has gotten me interviews at the most extraordinary spots in NYC and face-to-face with inspirational artists, directors, and fellow creatives. However, I do not get paid or compensated for my work with them. It's strictly on a volunteer basis. I pay all my costs.

In 2018, two galleries accepted my works for exhibits! I have also had the honor to have my work accepted at a local cafe in the neighborhood my family is from and I grew up.

It's exhilarating and an honor to have my works seen by other artists and enthusiasts. Nothing is more rewarding then overhearing people compliment my photos at galleries and listening to their interpretations of the images.

The reasons I am asking for help today is because the life of a creative is a challenge. Over the last two and a half years, I've paid out of pocket for everything: materials, equipment, memberships, transportation, submissions, printing, etc.

I am asking for your generosity, support, and empowerment in taking my photography to another level. The smallest amount will be taken a very long way (anyone who knows me knows I'm extremely frugal and great with tight budgets, especially living in NYC)! Anything donated will go to the following:

- Promotional business cards and/or postcards, frames, mat boards, pens, hooks, printing paper, printer ink, printer costs (I work with a professional for the gallery shows - home printer is no way good enough for that level of quality!) Adobe Photoshop is a monthly fee of $22 and I'd love to add Lightroom to the subscription (I currently can't afford the additional $10/mo, so I don't have it).

- Memberships & Submissions: Often times galleries and organizations encourage or require a membership before being able to submit. Additionally, there are often costs to submit and then installment fees if accepted. Lastly, I'd like to renew my APA NY and PDN memberships this fall. Perhaps even join one or two more organizations or galleries.

- Transportation: With the rising costs of MTA, this helps me get to interviews or events, such as portfolio reviews and organization meetings. I have a bike that requires some maintenance and with the roads being torn up, it's quite common for me to have flats or need other repairs.

- Equipment (this would be the last of what I'd get): I've got my eye on two more lenses to help with portraits and action scenes. Possibly a Go-Pro (older model) for the hi-action scenes. Also needed: light bulbs, light-box, filters.  I have no proper storage for my camera, right now it's in a craft box to avoid dust. I need a bag or trunk for the equipment I currently own.

I'm not asking for a hand-out, I've worked extremely hard to get here and will continue to work diligently on my artistic journey. I have many receipts which would back up my claim of need.

My gratitude for all those who have helped me on this journey and to get here today is overwhelmingly beautiful. My gratitude for any help moving forward would be so greatly appreciated, without words, and love to think I took the most tragic events and turned them into something very positive.

I'd be absolutely delighted to work something out for those who are looking for a photographer-for-hire.

THANK  YOU for your consideration, support, inspiration, and empowerment!