The Project was
to create portraits of and collect stories from the class of 2020 who graduated at home!

Artist's Statement

I simply felt called to do this project.  What a privilege to be invited to people’s homes (into their yards at least) to interview and photograph the Graduate and hear about their experience.  One of the ways we process major events is to speak about our journey through them and hear ourselves - affirming meaning and honoring what we went through.  It was an honor to serve in this way and this experience touched me deeply.  I hope you enjoy their stories and the images I have created.

Lori Sortino, Philosographer  (recording events from a particular philosophical viewpoint)

Each participant's interview transcript can be viewed by clicking on their name below.

Q:
Were students or families asked to pay for these photo sessions?
A:
Students and families are participating voluntarily. They were not being paid and they are not paying to take part.  Some have purchased some of their digital images.  Three families received all images as a gift from the photographer because of financial hits as a result of COVID-19.  One young woman was gifted a canvas print for her family who she has not been able to see because of the COVID-19 travel restrictions.  Each participant received at least one free digital file download as a thank you.

Q:
Who is paying for this project?
A:
Essence Captured Photography is providing the creative aspect and the GraduatingAtHome GoFundMe Account will cover expenses related to production, print and projected media exhibits. This is a community service project.

Q:
Is there a way to donate to this project to help cover costs?
A:
Yes, you can donate through the GoFundMe page or send money with Venmo to @LoriSortino.

Q:
What are all the ways this photo series will be available for viewing?
A:
There is no known limit, as long as it is shared tastefully and respectfully. I will be open to invitations from the media and the community for exhibiting the series. We will have to sense into what is appropriate based on where people are able to go, in public, and hopefully get these up in print in public spaces. Billboards? Whatever the GoFundMe funds will allow.

Q:
Are you sharing updates on the project?
A:
Yes!  Follow my Essence Captured Facebook Page or my personal Facebook page or Instagram Account!

Q:
Have Photo Releases been signed by the participating graduates?
A:
Yes, they have signed acknowledgement that they will not receive any compensation for the use of their likeness/image. I will maintain the copyrights to all images, and the images are created for the purpose of chronicling this historic time.