PWP serves adults aged 60+ years interested in having a memorable portrait of themselves, while also sharing theses personal images and associated "wisdom statements" with the wider community (i.e., online &/or physical "gallery" display). 

Volunteering to sit for a personalized portrait means also agreeing to this public display component. Why? Because PWP also seeks to counter ageist stereotypes which often degrade, belittle, and isolate our older neighbors. The portraits and words of wisdom of PWP volunteers tell a different story: "WE MATTER." 

Volunteering for PWP is as simple as completing  an online registration and consent form. A phone or Zoom conversation with follows. This conversation includes a verbal orientation, a brief "wisdom" interview for text which accompanies each portrait, and discussion of scheduling.  Public display with a partner organization (e.g., retirement community) is discussed ahead also.

Tom typically drives up to 50 miles one way from his home for portrait sessions. Farther travel may be possible as he is often in Augusta and Belfast for his other volunteer activities. A sitting takes about an hour and happens in  the volunteer sitter's home or other valued space (e.g., a workshop, craft studio).  A minimum of five poses are arranged and photographed.

Tom shoots 75+ images during a typical sitting with a goal of presenting the 5 "best" images to the sitter within a week or two (i.e., after any needed editing).  The sitter chooses 1-3 "favorites" for later printing and framing. A cost* is involved here. 

Standard print sizes are 8x10 and 8x12. The latter is considered "full frame" and offers unique visual appeal. Chosen prints are each mounted in a simple, tasteful 11x17 or 11x14 black frame with white mat. 

*The cost per framed print is $20 payable directly to the photographer by cash, check, or Venmo/PayPal. A print-only option is also available for $10 per print. These fees are for cost-recovery purposes.

PWP Maine is a private, voluntary service project of Tom Meuser, Portland, Maine, USA. It is Tom's way of giving back to his community.  A retirement community, long-term care facility, or other senior service organization may partner with PWP to invite their residents/constituents to participate. Such partnership could result in an online or physical "gallery" display of images to benefit the partner organization.  

All rights reserved. The images displyed and contents of this website are for public viewing, learning, and enjoyment. No part of this website may be copied or otherwise utilized without Tom Meuser's written permission. 

Email use requests, questions, and other comments to meusert63@gmail.com.