by Seth Cochran

Can you remember the first time you saw a photograph of yourself?  I certainly can’t.  It must have been sometime before I could speak...Photos are such an established element of our culture that it is actually difficult to understand the thrill of seeing yourself in a picture for the first time.  I got a small glimpse of this exciting event yesterday when I first handed out photos of the Kitovu ladies that I had printed at a photoshop in Masaka. 

It never before occurred to me how much the ladies would love the photos.  I thought it only a courtesy to have a few shots printed up in return for their continued patience with my unceasing camera work.  But as soon as I started handing out photos, a mob formed around me with giggling women and girls reaching for the photos as I recognized them as the subjects.  Despite having virtually no ability to speak English, each woman at some point shook my hand and beamed a proud, “Thank you, sir.” 

Shortly after handing out my prints, I had a line of women stepping up before me to pose for individual portraits.  No one wanted to miss their chance at a photo opportunity and many of the women rushed back to the hostel to put on their fanciest clothes or bring props.  The impromptu photo-shoot moved locations frantically as dusk set, but everyone eventually had their chance to model.  By the close of our session, I had nearly 100 pictures to print.  Though each was relatively pricey at $0.50 per print, their real value was incalculable. 

I handed out pictures again this morning and the pride with which each woman took her photo from my hands made me feel like every picture printed had an invaluable preciousness.  I think the product of these photo-sessions will hang in homes across Uganda for many years to come. 

You can surely understand how little things like pictures make a huge difference in the lives of people around the world.  It may not end poverty, but a $0.50 picture can add a bit of sweetness to even the most bitter life. 

Give $10 today and fund a photo shoot for 20 women who forgot what its like to feel pretty.