Yesterday, on Christmas morning, Pepito Valdes lugged his equipment on location for a portrait session. He set up his Hasselblad and lights. Fuji had furnished the film for free for this one. Reedy Photofinishers volunteered the development and printing. He was assisted by Brian Sweet, and photographers Daniel Perry and James Roel.
The subjects were homeless families at the Metropolitan Ministries shelter in Tampa, Florida. Mr. Valdes normally charges $2300 or more for a portrait, but yesterday it was a gift. "All I'm doing is keeping a record of the family", he said... "they're not homeless to me, they're just children". The photos will be framed and given to these families, many of which are the victims of domestic violence. It was hard to get some of his subjects to smile, but Mr. Valdes is a charming man.
Many lined up before the lens for the only photograph they would have of themselves this Christmas.
--- Luis
