When Calgary went into pandemic lockdown in March 2020, so many small business owners and artists got hit hard and fast. What started as an idea to make some money to support our collapsed photography company turned into a much more valuable project – we were suddenly providing joy during a time of uncertainty and great need.

As the weeks passed, the response was incredible, and I was booked solid – I visited over 650 families in all areas of Calgary, doing between 10-25 photoshoots each day. My porchraits project brought people a moment of relief and fun, giving each family something to look forward to beyond their day-to-day lockdown. The porchrait sessions highlighted what we were all recognizing during that time – that our strength comes from those we love. My goal for the porchrait sessions was to provide a 100% positive experience. I’d arrive and set up my camera on the sidewalk or a few metres from the home, and family members would arrange themselves. Between weather, pets, babies and other family dynamics, I experienced amazing highs and emotional lows alongside my porchraits families, and I will be grateful to all of them, forever. While we can’t fit all the porchraits on the wall, this show is a love letter back to each and every one of the families for supporting me in a great time of need! – Neil Zeller