Who we are
1. Vision and Mission Statement
Vision: To create a safe, inspiring space for veterans where photography serves as a therapeutic outlet, enhancing mental well-being, fostering creativity, and building a supportive community.
Mission: Lens of Valor Studios aims to improve mental health outcomes for veterans through creative photography workshops, individual projects, and community events. We strive to make photography a means of healing, expression, and connection for those affected by PTSD and related mental health challenges.
2. Objectives
Therapeutic Engagement: Provide veterans with access to photography sessions and workshops that encourage emotional release and stress relief.
Skill Development: Teach practical photography skills that veterans can use to capture their emotions, tell their stories, and feel empowered.
Community and Support: Build a community of veterans and supportive individuals who share and encourage each other through creative projects and group activities.
Art Therapy Awareness: Advocate for the therapeutic power of photography in improving mental health, focusing on PTSD.
3. Services and Programs
Photography Workshops: Host beginner and advanced workshops specifically designed for veterans. Sessions will include:
Basic Camera Techniques: Understanding how to use photography equipment.
Mindful Photography: Using photography as a meditative exercise to help veterans be present and reflect on their surroundings.
Storytelling Through Photography: Teaching veterans how to create photo essays that narrate their personal stories or experiences.
Workshop Content:
Session 1: Introduction to Photography
Overview of the basics of photography, including camera types, settings (aperture, shutter speed, ISO), and how to use a DSLR camera.
Hands-on practice with different camera settings and understanding composition fundamentals.
Group activity: Veterans take turns capturing different angles of the same subject to see how perspective changes the outcome.
Session 2: Mindful Photography Techniques
Introduction to mindfulness and its importance in managing PTSD.
Guided exercise: Veterans are taken outdoors or to a calm setting and encouraged to take photographs that resonate with their current feelings. The emphasis is on observing details and being present in the moment.
Group discussion: Sharing photographs and reflecting on how the process helped them focus or calm their thoughts.
Session 3: Storytelling Through Photography
Understanding visual storytelling and how to create a narrative through images.
Individual project: Veterans create a small photo essay on a theme of their choice (e.g., "My Life After Service" or "Finding Beauty in Everyday Life").
Feedback session: Participants share their photo essays, and constructive feedback is provided by peers and facilitators.
Session 4: Portrait Photography and Self-Expression
Introduction to portraiture and capturing emotions.
Veterans practice taking portraits of each other, focusing on capturing expressions that convey specific emotions.
Reflection activity: Discussing how they felt while being photographed and what emotions the images convey.
Session 5: Nature Photography for Stress Relief
Guided nature walk: Veterans are taken to a nearby park or nature reserve and encouraged to photograph natural elements that evoke a sense of peace or comfort.
Emphasis on the therapeutic effects of being in nature and capturing its beauty.
Group exhibit: Compile the photographs into a small exhibition or slideshow to celebrate the participants' work.
Session 6: Editing and Enhancing Photographs
Introduction to basic photo editing using software like Adobe Lightroom or free alternatives.
Hands-on practice: Veterans edit their favorite photos from previous sessions to enhance their storytelling.
Final project preparation: Participants prepare their best photos for the upcoming exhibition.
Project-Based Healing Initiatives:
Veteran Photo Projects: Veterans are encouraged to complete individual or group projects based on themes like "Memories of Service," "The Beauty Around Us," or "Overcoming Darkness." The aim is to help veterans externalize their emotions and experiences.
Community Collaborations: Collaborate with local veterans’ organizations to showcase participants' work through exhibitions or gallery showings, helping to share their stories with a wider audience.
One-on-One Photography Sessions: Offer veterans personalized photography sessions as a form of art therapy. These sessions will focus on identifying themes that resonate with them—such as nature, portraits, or still life—to help process emotions.
Exhibition Opportunities:
Annual Exhibition: Host an annual exhibition featuring the work of veteran participants. This will give them a sense of accomplishment, boost self-esteem, and allow their stories to be seen and understood by the community.
Photo Walk Events: Organize monthly or quarterly photo walks for veterans, allowing them to experience different environments and find beauty in their surroundings. These walks can also help foster a sense of community.
Veteran Mentorship: Train interested veterans to become peer mentors within the studio. Those who find value in the programs can help guide new participants, fostering a supportive community dynamic.
4. Community Outreach and Partnership
Local Veteran Organizations: Partner with local VA clinics, veterans' groups, and non-profits to provide referrals and spread awareness about the studio’s programs.
Workshops for Spouses and Families: Offer sessions specifically for the spouses and families of veterans, allowing them to better understand PTSD and participate in healing activities.
Collaborate with Mental Health Professionals: Work with counselors or psychologists who understand PTSD to help facilitate workshops, providing insights into the therapeutic aspects of photography.
5. Funding and Resources
Grants and Donations: Seek grants for art therapy and mental health initiatives. Apply for local and national funding that supports veterans' mental health and well-being.
Equipment Donations: Reach out to camera companies and local businesses for donations of cameras, lenses, and other photography gear to provide veterans with the necessary tools.
Studio Revenue: While many programs will be offered for free or at a reduced cost to veterans, generate income through non-veteran clients, offering portrait sessions, events, and professional photography services.
6. Marketing and Awareness
Social Media Campaign: Share veterans’ stories and projects on social media platforms to raise awareness about PTSD, the studio’s mission, and how photography helps veterans heal.
Veteran Testimonies: Record testimonies from veterans who have benefited from the studio’s programs to inspire others to participate and increase community support.
Local Events: Participate in local veterans' events, fairs, and markets to spread awareness and promote the services offered.
7. Metrics for Success
Participant Feedback: Collect qualitative data through surveys and one-on-one discussions with veteran participants to assess their emotional well-being before and after involvement.
Community Growth: Track the growth of the veteran community engaging in Lens of Valor activities. Set goals for monthly participation and event attendance.
Artistic Output: Track the number of personal projects completed, photographs taken, and exhibitions held as an indicator of both creative engagement and project success.
8. Long-Term Goals
Expanded Reach: Open additional locations or form partnerships to bring Lens of Valor Studios to more veteran communities.
Mobile Unit: Develop a mobile photography unit to reach veterans who are unable to travel to the studio, providing on-site photography sessions and workshops.
Online Programs: Offer online courses for veterans nationwide, allowing them to benefit from workshops regardless of their physical location.
