Thank you sincerely for considering support for this project. Your involvement is crucial to ensuring the success of this endeavor, and there are several impactful ways you can contribute. One simple yet powerful step is to engage with and share the project on social media platforms. Follow the project's Instagram page for updates, and anticipate insightful videos on my YouTube channel once the project kicks off.
Moreover, if you have connections with potential sponsors or partners, especially those involved in instrument creation, music enthusiasts, environmental advocates, cultural heritage organizations, educational institutions, art entities, or grant organizations, your introductions would be immensely valuable. Personal referrals can lead to partnerships ranging from financial contributions to social media shoutouts and even unique resource contributions.
Direct financial support is the most immediate way to make a significant impact. You can make a one-time donation or become a monthly donor on my Patreon page. The unique challenges of this project come with associated costs, including:
Travel costs. Fuel, car maintenance, insurance, lodging (hotels, motels, inns, and campsites), meals (take out and groceries), and dare to dream maybe even a flight.
Equipment costs. This project utilizes special lighting equipment that can be run on battery power and brought out into the woods. My camera and lenses all require regular maintenance. Computer software subscriptions. Hard drives for image and video storage. Rental of anything specialized on the road.
Assistants fees. Bringing any amount of gear out into the woods is hard. Gear is sensitive, fragile, and heavy. I’ve operated as a one man operation for most of my career. But this project will require help. Either locally sourced or someone coming out on the road with me. And they need to be paid for their time.
Permits and permissions. I expect most of the photo sessions to take place on public land, but I’m preparing for every ethical consideration and intend to do all of my sessions by the book.
Promotion and marketing. Word of mouth is our best option, but to really reach all our intended audiences we’ll try a variety of techniques. Some of which will be costly.
Bills. While I’m on the road, electric and gas are still on at my home. And not being at home means I’m not making an income from my usual gigs. So this project is going to have to make up for some of that loss.
Final completion of the gallery showing and other related materials. Images will need to be printed and framed. Space will need to be rented. Multi Media exhibits need to be built out and set up. If a photo book makes sense we’ll need to hire an editor and do a print run.
Contingency. I can plan for everything except the unexpected, And it’s the emergencies that always end up being the most costly.
The estimated project duration is 12-18 months, culminating in a gallery showing. Your support is instrumental in navigating unforeseen challenges and ensuring the project's overall success. I am genuinely grateful for any support you can provide, and I am excited about the opportunity to create something truly wonderful with your backing.
