Image: The LA Times
In the last few months, tornados have ripped through much of midwest. The wreckage is crazy, many people have lost everything–some even their lives–and aide workers are doing their best to piece it all back together.
There a few photos of the storms themselves–which are huge and scary–but mostly, there are tons of photos of the aftermath…destroyed houses, overturned cars, ruined farms…which kind of fall into the category of “ruin porn” or “Detroitism,” but images of destruction like these always make me want to give back. This is how photographers can do more–take pictures of gritty shit, and expose everyone to it, and remind them that there are people who are in need. Click thru the image tabs above the photo to see what i mean.
Check out what’s going on out there–and, if you have a chance and the means, consider donating to the Red Cross or Salvation Army.
How do you get those graphics up there, looks so cool.
Chase – your involvement in helping communities is always a great inspiration.
Neil
A couple who lived near me lost their home and possessions to a devasting fire. They recovered a family album and the majority of images were destroyed. A few water damaged ones were recovered. I took over 2-3 images and spent a week painstaking work managed to recreate the photos. I did this for free cos it was the right thing to do.
I think there was a online charity set up in the wake of Katrina that does this. Not sure what it is called.
It doesnt have to be a big tragedy that you can help, all means take photos tell the world. But your first responsibility as a photographer is to engage with these people. Tell em what you are doing. Last thing they need is disaster tourists wandering around,
You might get some insight, make a friend and make a difference even by listening to some one.
Rich
Hi Chase, I have been following your blog for some time. You are really inspiring and your Seattle 100 project made me get off my backside and do something for our local community. We have published a novel book, showcasing our landscape, the way we live and what people eat in the volcanic zone of New Zealand. If you are interested look up http://www.volcanickitchens.co.nz. Thanks again, amongst other things you are a great motivator.
Here are some other images from the aftermath of the tornado that struck Branson on February 29, 2012. http://www.flickr.com/photos/jdstudios/sets/72157629121250850/