Our Story

The story of Shine Photography is not only about serving through photography but is also about the story of each student in Metro Schools who comes from a home where necessities are a struggle and extras are not even a consideration.  One half of MNPS students (or more, depending on what formula is used) come from a home at poverty level or below. 

Senior pictures are one of the “Rites of Passage” for our high school seniors. Photography and the ability to purchase senior pictures becomes an equity issue involving the various socioeconomic groups in Metro Schools. 

Through two decades of working with under-resourced youth and having a passion for both teens and photography, I realized that purchasing expensive senior picture packages was not a possibility for most of the families with whom I came in contact.

The need was great and I began connecting with other photographers who would be willing to assist. Through personal extensive experience in the Nashville nonprofit sector, research, interviews to gain expertise in starting a nonprofit, Shine Photography went from being a vision to reality.

The impact on the students and families is more than I could have imagined. “Celebratory Goodness” is the descriptor that has been used about Shine’s work. Shine allows area photographers to give back in a beautiful way. The photographs are very much a form of art with each photographer having their own unique style. 

Shine “shines” in the diversity of students we have served. MNPS students from Tanzania, the Middle East, Mexico, neighboring states and all parts of Nashville have been served and felt celebrated and noticed after being referred by MNPS or nonprofit staff for professional photos by area photographers who seek to serve.  Families pay only 10.00. 

Thank you!

Donna Moffitt
Founder/Director
Shine Photography