Matt Nicolosi Photographic Art

marcia Hi Matt, thanks for responding. For some reason it wasn't clear to me that the nominees wouldn't know they were being nominated. That of course is the kindest way. I was concerned about adding insult to injury. Again, its beautiful what you and all the other photographers across the country and overseas are doing. God Bless you all. Dec 9, 2008 ~ 6:40pm

Adrienne One of my nominations were someone who has lost all of their possessions in a house fire. If they are my winner, just imagine what this portrait gift will mean to them when their home is rebuilt. Like someone else said here, nominees do not know that they have been nominted. Dec 9, 2008 ~ 1:52pm

Matt Nicolosi Hi, Marcia. Thanks for your comment. I have thought considerably about how difficult it's going to be to select a single person/family when there are so many heroic/heartbreaking/inspiring stories of people that are more than deserving. In the end, though, the question I - and many other photographers - had to ask was do I do nothing so that no one feels disappointed they didn't receive this gift or do I - and others - try to give back a little of what we've been given and make this season just a little bit brighter for someone? That question was an easy one to answer as I'd rather someone receive cherished images they'll treasure for a lifetime than no one at all. And the great thing is that although there's no way we can possibly reach everyone that's deserving, it's been amazing how Kristen's original idea is growing tremendously to where more than 90+ photographers across the country and in other countries (with more each day) are giving a similar gift. I would encourage all of us to look for ways to give back to and/or serve others rather than worry about not being able to give enough. If we all do our part, think of the number of people we can reach. Have a great holiday. Dec 9, 2008 ~ 12:47pm

Charlene Chavez Marcia, you're cup is half empty and you're the one who are calling them "Losers"! Please find it in your small mind and small heart that people like to do "Good & Great Things" for others. Don't rain on our parade! Try being nice to someone and it may bring a smile to your face and make you feel good too! I really wish you a Happy Day! Dec 9, 2008 ~ 12:03pm

Kristen Wow, Marcia, that's possibly the most cynical thing I've ever read. The 'losers' don't know they've been nominated, in most cases, and all of us photographers are lamenting how we'll ever choose between the heartbreaking stories we're receiving. Many of us are trying to figure out how to give away *multiple* photography sessions this holiday season. Dec 9, 2008 ~ 11:21am

marcia Matt, this is a beautiful gift to a deserving family in each of the photographer's towns you listed. Just wondering how the "losers" are notified and how they will then feel on top of all the other hardships they faced over the year. Somehow, winning a contest based on how much one has suffered doesn't seem worth winning. I know your hearts are in the right place even if the results aren't happy for all... Dec 9, 2008 ~ 1:06am

Shelley Rankin I think this is wonderful you are doing this. I do something similar and have a program called "small blessings" which people can nominate someone. this year it is for a very loving mother facing cancer. I think we are given gifts and talents in life and it is up to us to ensure we use them for good and find ways to bless others in life. Bless you for doing this. Giving is so much fun! Dec 4, 2008 ~ 10:18am