April 4, 2020
NEWS PHOTO MO CRANKER
Local photographer Bradley East stands with his camera Saturday. East is travelling around the city every day, taking photos of families on their porches. East is donating money raised to the Medicine Hat and District Health Foundation.
mcranker@medicinehatnews.com@MHNmocranker
Hatter Bradley East is using his passion for photography to make a difference during these tough times.
East has started Porch Portrait Sessions around Medicine Hat and Redcliff, where he photographs families outside of their homes, then donates any funds raised to the Medicine Hat and District Health Foundation.
“I set up times with different families and take their photos on their porch,” he said. “I stand on the sidewalk or at least six feet away, and let them do the photo however they want.
“Some of the photos are just nice family photos, while others are showing support to medical workers.
“They can be funny, serious – whatever people want.”
East can be contacted through Facebook or by email (bradleyeastphotography@gmail.com) to set up a time for a family photo. He has taken 20 photos and has a couple dozen more lined up.
“It’s been busy, but the response has been great,” he said. “It’s been a lot of fun working with all of these families.
“It’s fun to see the creativity in their photos.”
East says he is not asking for a donation, but will donate every penny he receives.
“I know it’s tough for everyone right now, so I’m not expecting anything,” he said. “Once it’s done, I can send it through Facebook, text or email.
“People get two photos – a plain one and then one with #healthcareherofund on it to help promote the donation part of this.”
East says the health foundation is a cause that sits near and dear to his heart.
“I picked them because last summer I lost my older sister to cancer,” he said. “My mom was also diagnosed with terminal cancer, thankfully she is still with us.
“My sister was a very giving person and was always involved with fundraising, I saw this as a good time to carry on with that.
“Health care heroes have done so much for my family and deserve the support.”
East says money raised will be split between health care workers and hospital patients. Workers will have gift cards purchased for them, so they can buy lunch at the hospital. Patients will have things like flowers, newspapers, crosswords and disposable cellphones so patients can FaceTime family members.
