Front Porch Project Family portraits from afar to raise money for those in need.

This past weekend, fifteen gracious Bozeman families participated in the Bozeman Front Porch Project family portraits from afar. They wanted to celebrate their loved ones, be a part of a community art project, and raise money to support the Greater Gallatin United Way during this unsettling time in our community and country.

Over the last few weeks, the COVID-19 virus spread across the world and finally reach our Montana doorstep, social distancing commenced. Quite quickly our vibrant, social, outdoorsy Bozeman community suddenly felt like a ghost town.

As a self-employed photography business owner navigating the uncertainty of the COVID-19 virus, I wanted to support and create a project to uplift the mood while our community maintains safety with social distancing.

While our normal lives have been turned into a holding pattern it’s important to remember that – Love is not cancelled. Friendships are not canceled. Emotional support is not canceled.

I wanted to create a reminder of all the good things these families have to celebrate in their lives right now.

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These precious moments of togetherness with our families, loved ones, and pets – our relationships, are what will help us all get through these times of difficulty and struggle.

Through our shared, sheltered experience, we can still foster connections and our combined community’s resilience.

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The enthusiasm and outpouring of support for the Bozeman Front Porch Project, has been profound.

I am so grateful to everyone who supported this and helped me spread the word on social media. Thank you!

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Right from the start, the health and safety of every one were at the forefront of importance for me. As the week went on, this serious national health emergency continued to drastically change and escalate.

With the announcement of stay-at-home directives (starting this weekend for Montana) by Montana Gov. Steve Bullock, suddenly, I was debating whether I should put the project on hold.

In the end, under my already stringent safety measures, I decided to continue forward. By photographing everyone from afar with my telephoto lens (on average at least 20 feet), we created some really genuine fun family portraits.

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There was no charge to participate in the Bozeman Front Porch Project Family portraits. However, I’m happy to announce that donations raised $1,015.00 that will be given to the Greater Gallatin United Way!

I am so thankful for all of the generous donations to this good cause. It makes me proud to be a part of our Bozeman community. I’m looking forward to a time when we can put this challenge in our rearview mirrors.

Thank you, Bozeman!

Stay safe, stay healthy, and soak up this time with your loved ones.

When this storm passes, I’ll be here to help you and your family showcase everything you love about your relationships during your own family photographic experience.

Together, we are all going to get through this. -Mike Greener

P.S. As a candid, creative photographer, I can’t help but capture a moment if it’s happening in front of me. Here are a few bonus photos that I liked from my weekend of giving back.

And lastly, thanks to my labrador retriever and photo assistant Tippet for accompanying me on the Bozeman Front Porch Project. -M