Free portraits

Southeast Missouri is blessed with many generous people. However, some members of our community especially shine during this Christmas season of giving -- and often in creative ways.

Several local photographers, stylists, a photography editor and a local salon donated their time, talent and resources to offer free portraits for those who cannot afford the luxury this Christmas.

The event, held at a portrait studio on Broadway in Cape Girardeau, was part of the national Help-Portrait event started last year by celebrity photographer Jeremy Cowart.

According to Sheri Grippo, a local Help-Portrait event organizer, there were no qualifying credentials to attend the event and no questions were asked about financial need.

Local photographers who donated their time and talent were Zane Riley, Sheena Faught, Natasha Ribble and Grippo. Kyle Dewitt of Print & Pixel donated his photo editing services. Elements salon sent several stylists, and Eden Spa donated products for the event.

This no-strings-attached act of kindness blessed many in our area. The volunteers and businesses who supported the event should be commended for providing the treasure of photography this Christmas season.