When we think of the phrase “professional photo shoot”, we think of beautiful models, groomed to perfection and picture perfect. It seems high quality photography paired with flawless models is the key to a great picture. But is it really?
At our UMH communities, we believe there is beauty in everyone. Gray hair? Perfect! A few wrinkles on your face? Even better! Those signs of aging we all try so hard to reverse are the marks of wisdom and grace – to be worn with pride. Why would we not want to showcase that in a photo? Now, we agree that a professional photographer, good lighting, and a high quality camera is an important component of any successful photo shoot, but we see things through a different lens at UMH.
Nearly every photo featured on our website and in our promotional materials features a resident, staff, member, volunteer, or family member from one of our UMH communities. No flawless models. No perfect people. Just ordinary men, women, boys, and girls who are part of our lives; part of our UMH family. These individuals are the reason we do what we do – the very heart of who we are! They play the leading roles in our story – what would the story be like without a real glimpse of life in our communities?
Of course, if our residents feel more glamorous wearing makeup or having their hair done, we certainly oblige. It makes the whole process even more fun seeing how much the residents enjoy getting jazzed up for the occasion! And as you might recall from taking your own family photos – sometimes getting the “right shot” can feel like a total disaster - we know that feeling as well! But at the end of the day, memories are made, laughter is shared, and the end result is, more often than not, an image that captures real life.
As a mission-driven, not-for-profit senior living organization, we make it our goal is to share what real life is like in our communities on any ordinary day. We think these photos do a great job of depicting that! (If you’re still not convinced, we’d love to chat more! Contact us to learn more about our communities, our relationship-centered approach to care, and our 140 year legacy of caring.)
And just in case you’re wondering what went on behind the scenes, we created this fun video of one of our recent photography sessions. Enjoy!
