Island Spotlight: Randi Baird, Faces From the Front Lines

Island Spotlight: Randi Baird and Faces from the Front Lines

HOW DID YOU DISCOVER YOUR LOVE FOR PHOTOGRAPHY?

From a very early age, I was attracted to the arts. I loved arts and crafts, 2D, 3D, pottery, drawing, painting as well as piano playing. When it was time to think about high school, my parents suggested I apply to a special art high school in New York City – Art & Design on East 56 Street. I applied and was accepted, and photography became my favorite class to attend. I then went on to study Photography at Syracuse University and graduated with a Bachelor of Fine Arts in photography ’87.

DO YOU HAVE A FAVORITE SPOT OR TWO ON THE VINEYARD THAT CAPTURES THE ESSENCE OF THE ISLAND EACH SEASON?

I’ve lived on Martha’s Vineyard for the last 24 years, and it continues to offer me new locations and hidden gems that I can share with my family portrait clients. I especially love the South Shore and South Beach for its expansive views, interesting dunes, and lush seagrass. For those that want more of a nautical feel with boats, docks and beach plums, the Edgartown Lighthouse is another one of my favorite locations for photography sessions. You can read about some more of my favorite spots here.

ANY TIPS FOR TAKING PHOTOS OF KIDS OR FAMILY PORTRAITS?

If you’re taking photos of your kids, kneel down so the camera is at their height at eye level. It doesn’t distort the photograph, and it’s a fun perspective of your kids. It can be a challenge to capture your entire family in one shot, but if you want to give it a try, get a tripod, an extended shutter release, and tickle your kids while you keep clicking the release button.

WE HEARD YOU WERE DOCUMENTING SOME OF THE FIRST RESPONDERS ON THE ISLAND, CAN YOU TELL US A BIT ABOUT THE PROJECT?

Yes, my project is entitled Everyday Heroes, the Faces from the Front Line .

When the shutter in place order first became effective on March 14th I knew I had to do something to support the crisis. I realized that while many were hunkered down at home staying safe, there was a band of resilient men and women braving risk and exposure to serve our community every day. By employing innovation and creativity, exhibiting strong leadership, adaptability, and relentless determination, these local heroes have been stepping up to keep our community afloat during this pandemic. I am compelled to capture them in their selfless moments of service, to share their stories and highlight their efforts, and to give a voice to these people who are holding up and keeping our community intact.

From the hospital employees providing care to the sick, the delivery drivers hauling supplies to the Island, the grocery store employees stocking the shelves, the school cafeteria workers and pantry volunteers providing meals for our vulnerable families, there is an overwhelming number of people who are serving as critical lifelines to our community.

Our collective health and well being is dependent on the actions of these brave individuals who have been deployed across the Island to keep our rock up and running, and who remind us everyday how critical it is for us to band together, especially in times of need. Their efforts speak volumes for their character and dedication, and their acts of compassion and generosity serve as a silver lining amid a crisis we will never forget.

You can read more about the project here and follow along

with Randi’s daily profiles on her Instagram and Facebook accounts.

Thank you, Randi, for the inside scoop and we look forward to seeing you on South Beach with your camera and our guests this summer.

Island Spotlight: Randi Baird and Faces from the Front Lines

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Thank you for another great season!