Shine Your Light Project-Ben

 
With a heart full of music and a presence that lights up any stage, Ben shines through in both talent and character. Whether he’s playing the saxophone with the High School Jazz 1 ensemble—performing at venues like Boston’s famous Hatch Shell—or harmonizing in his school’s a cappella group, Ben brings passion and depth to everything he does. A natural performer, he’s found joy in musical theater, especially when stepping into the role of Professor Callahan in Legally Blonde. 
 
Beyond his artistic gifts, Ben is known for his unwavering loyalty, kindness, and quiet strength. Thoughtful, reliable, and endlessly supportive, he’s the kind of person who lifts up everyone around him—on stage and off.
 

As a Limited Edition Artist Project, I will offer special “Shine Your Light” studio sessions. By collectively illuminating our paths, we extend a guiding light to those lost in the darkness. I’ll be posting more images of adults and children shining their light. Reach out to learn more about this Artist’s Project.

Everyone has a Story. Let’s Tell Yours Together. 

Shine Your Light Project-Chris

A healer, motivator, and difference-maker who has dedicated her life to helping others through the power of movement. As a physical therapist and Director of a Rock Steady Boxing program, Chris is committed to empowering those battling Parkinson’s disease, proving that strength isn’t just physical—it’s mental, emotional, and deeply personal.

Her passion for boxing runs in her blood—her grandfather was a famed Filipino boxer, and years ago, she fell in love with the sport as part of her own fitness journey. But when she saw a story about Rock Steady Boxing, she knew immediately that this was her calling. With determination, she became a certified coach, bringing her expertise, compassion, and boundless energy to those who need it most for the past 8 years.

Chris’s boxers don’t just come to class for exercise—they come for community, inspiration, and hope. Every week, she builds fresh, challenging, and beneficial workouts, carefully designed to meet each person’s individual needs. She pushes them to do more than they ever thought possible—punching harder, moving stronger, and walking away with confidence and smiles. For some, her classes are life-changing, even life-saving.

“She always encourages me to do my best.  She is a true source of strength while I battle Parkinson’s Disease. I don’t know where I would be without her!”

Her impact goes far beyond the gym—she’s a friend, a motivator, and a light in so many lives. The dedication and heart Chris pours into her work doesn’t just help people move better—they help them live better. The world is brighter because of Chris! 

I had the pleasure of photographing Chris with her boxing gloves at my Northborough studio. I also have the pleasure of working with her in the gym once a week as a Rock Steady Volunteer. 

Reach out if you are interested in volunterring at Rock Steady Boxing 

As a Limited Edition Artist Project, I will offer special “Shine Your Light” studio sessions. By collectively illuminating our paths, we extend a guiding light to those lost in the darkness. I’ll be posting more images of adults and children shining their light. Reach out to learn more about this Artist’s Project.

Everyone has a Story. Let’s Tell Yours Together. 

Shine Your Light Project-Kate

Sweet, Sassy, and Smart as a Whip.
Gracious, Graceful, and also Gritty. 

These are just a few of the words that describe Kate. As the youngest of three and the only girl, Kate has developed exceptional communication and resilience skills. I, too, am the youngest with two older brothers, so I feel a special connection with her. Kate’s long auburn hair beautifully frames her charming features, but don’t be deceived—this young lady is both fierce and strong. Her passion for dance reflects her approach to life: wholehearted and determined.

I had the pleasure of photographing Kate in her toe shoes at my Northborough studio just before she left to compete at Nationals.

As a Limited Edition Artist Project, I will offer special “Shine Your Light” studio sessions. If we all shine our light, we will help others who are feeling lost in the darkness. I’ll be posting more images of adults and children shining their light. Reach out to learn more about this Artist’s Project.

Everyone has a Story. Let’s Tell Yours Together. 

Learn more about the Artist’s Project: https://www.susanogarphotography.com/shine-your-light-project-introduction/

Shine Your Light Project-Johnny

Free-spirited.
Creative.
Compassionate.
Determined.

When prompted to characterize Johnny, these are just a few of the words used by family and friends. Johnny transcends the typical teenage mold, possessing a wealth of inspiration to share with the world.

I captured Johnny amidst a collection of distinctive wooden bowls and platters that he meticulously crafted. Witnessing his capacity to transform a piece of wood into a breathtaking work of art is nothing short of awe-inspiring. While peers his age are often absorbed in digital screens, Johnny invests his spare moments in the act of creation. What makes it truly magical is his well-rounded nature; in addition to his artistic pursuits, Johnny has a strong passion for fishing, cross-country running, and hockey, and engages in community service. He is not only a craftsman but also a humble and kind neighbor and friend.

Johnny’s grandfather, Buddy, a master craftsman and cabinetmaker, once remarked to Johnny’s father, “That boy has hands of Midas; everything he touches turns into gold.” This pronouncement, made years ago when Johnny was just beginning to explore his artistic inclinations, foretold his exceptional talent. Unaware of this sentiment, Johnny has since produced numerous pieces worthy of his late grandfather’s admiration and respect. A source of immense pride.

Through his pursuits, Johnny casts a radiant light on every project he undertakes, illuminating both the work itself and the people fortunate enough to be around him. A truly unique and gifted soul. 

As a Limited Edition Artist Project, I will be offering special “Shine Your Light” studio portrait sessions. By collectively illuminating our paths, we extend a guiding light to those lost in the darkness. Stay tuned for more images featuring individuals of all ages shining their light. Reach out to discover more about this Artist’s Project.

Everyone has a Story. Let’s Tell Yours Together.

Learn more about the Artist’s Project: https://www.susanogarphotography.com/shine-your-light-project-introduction/

Shine Your Light Project-Dylan

“Dylan’s unwavering authenticity shines brightly as she stays true to herself.” These are her mother’s words. Honestly, I could not find a better way to describe this beautiful young soul. I met Dylan as a small girl on her family’s farm and could see her quiet strength and her wisdom beyond her years. Dylan’s love for animals is beautiful to witness and reveals her true light. Even as a little girl, she was calm and confident with all types of animals. When Dylan’s family welcomed a delightful batch of baby chicks into their lives, her love for them genuinely bloomed, and she embraced them as if they were her own children. Maui stands out as the most remarkable mother hen of the flock, and Dylan’s bond with her is visible. Even as a young girl, Dylan’s responsibilities extended beyond simply tending to the needs of the chickens. They eagerly venture out of the coop when they hear her voice. There was even a time when Dylan courageously startled a fox, snooping around the coop, by barking at it!

I photographed Dylan and Maui together in studio. The chicken portraits were a first for both the chicken and me. 

As a Limited Edition Artist Project, I will be offering special “Shine Your Light” studio sessions. If we all shine our light, we will help others who are feeling lost in the darkness as well. I’ll be posting more images of adults and children shining their light. Reach out to become part of this Artist Project.

Everyone has a Story. Let’s Tell Yours Together.

Learn more about the Artist’s Project: https://www.susanogarphotography.com/shine-your-light-project-introduction/

Shine Your Light Project-AndreaGrace

Light and Love. Those are words that I think of when I think of AndreaGrace. I created this portrait to mark the momentous occasion of AndreaGrace’s Priestly Ordination. To me personally, Andrea has been a great source of solace and friendship. She has been both a lifelong friend and a longtime client. As a client, I’ve been able to learn about her work as an intergenerational trailblazer as well as a faithful teacher and leader. Andrea was the Founder & Executive Director of Bridges Together, Inc., the globally recognized organization dedicated to empowering leaders to connect generations.
 
As an Interfaith & Interspiritual Minister and Roman Catholic Woman Priest in the Association of Roman Catholic Women Priests (ARCWP) order (yes a woman priest!), Rev. AndreaGrace is vibrant, open, and loving. She embraces others and shares herself unconditionally. Not only does AndreaGrace shine her own light, but she also encourages people to grow their beautiful inner flame.
 
As a Limited Edition Artist Project, I will be offering special “Shine Your Light” studio sessions. If we all shine our light, we will help others who are feeling lost in the darkness as well. I’ll be posting more images of adults and children shining their light. Reach out to become part of this Artist Project.
Everyone has a Story. Let’s Tell Yours Together.
 
 

Shine Your Light Project-Lia

Shine Your Light.

Meet Lia. If you had a chance see to the cakes, cupcakes, and custom cookies designed by this 16-year-old, you would think she is a classically trained pastry chef. The attention to detail combined with her creativity is simply art. Edible art. What I find even more remarkable is that Lia is 16 now, but she started her custom cake business, Lia Bakes, at the age of 13. Lia was bored on the first day that school was closed due to Covid-19. Her mom gave her a baking challenge and the rest is history… The extra time at home provided her with the opportunity to hone her skills and reveal her true talent. What a cool silver lining to the pandemic lockdown.
 
According to her family, Lia has always been independent, patient, and inventive. Her grandmother speaks glowing of Lia’s tenacity and determination. Through sharing her gifts and talents, Lia’s compassionate spirit shines bright. It was my pleasure to have her take part in my Shine Your Light Artist Project.
I photographed Lia in studio with one of her amazing custom cakes. If only the portraits allowed you to taste it!
 
As a Limited Edition Artist Project, I will be offering special “Shine Your Light” studio sessions. If we all shine our light, we will help others who are feeling lost in the darkness as well. I’ll be posting more images of adults and children shining their light. Reach out to become part of this Artist Project.
Everyone has a Story. Let’s Tell Yours Together.
 
 

Shine Your Light Project

Determined
Fierce
Observant
Confident
Lauren.
When Lauren became part of my “Shine Your Light” Artist project, I realized that not everyone’s gifts and talents can be displayed easily with a visual representation. 

Lauren’s greatest gift is her mind. 

After being diagnosed with dyslexia at age 7, Lauren’s world more fully opened up rather than became limited by her learning differences. Dyslexia creates many real challenges to a traditional learning environment, but it also offers beautiful and creative ways of seeing and making sense of the world. Through her incredibly supportive parents who connected her with invaluable educators, Lauren has uncovered the ways in which she learns best. She began to watch documentary films on any and all subjects; she dug in and spent the extra time learning reading and writing systems and strategies; she invested in herself. 

Where some children struggle, Lauren shines. Her creativity, determination, and constant observation are her superpowers. She truly sees the world differently than the pack. And with Albert Einstein, Stephen Hawking, Leonardo da Vinci, Walt Disney, JFK, and Pablo Picasso having a form of dyslexia, I can’t wait to see what Lauren achieves in the future. 

For now, we congratulate her on her recent graduation from 8th Grade and wish her success in High School. 

As a Limited Edition Artist Project, I will be offering special “Shine Your Light” studio sessions. If we all shine our light, we will help others who are feeling lost in the darkness as well. I’ll be posting more images of adults and children shining their light. 

Everyone has a Story. Let’s Tell Yours Together.

Shine Your Light Project-Donna

This is Donna. It was a pleasure to have Donna be part of my Shine Your Light Artist Project as she shares so many of her gifts and talents with the world. As a gifted artist and chef, Donna brings joy and light to the people around her every day. During the Covid-19 pandemic, she was not able to cook for others as a chef, so she began to cook solely for herself and her husband and wrote down each nightly menu. She then created 4 quilts in which she embroidered every menu, capturing a snapshot of the time in lockdown. Cooking and feeding loved ones is such a gift, especially in a time of isolation.

I photographed Donna with one of the embroidered quilts as a backdrop. Her creativity, artistic talent, and ability to make others laugh in the truest way bring so much to this world. Donna is a practicing artist. Never mind, her amazing cooking skills.
 
As a Limited Edition Artist Project, I will be offering special “Shine Your Light” studio sessions. If we all shine our light, we will help others who are feeling lost in the darkness as well. I’ll be posting more images of adults and children shining their light. Reach out to become part of this Artist Project.
Everyone has a Story. Let’s Tell Yours Together.
 
Learn more about the Artist’s Project: https://www.susanogarphotography.com/shine-your-light…/

Shine Your Light Project – Brigid

Shine Your Light.
Meet Brigid. Brigid is the definition of a Bright Light. She’s spunky, fiery, and fierce. She’s strong-willed in ways I believe will serve her (and the world around her) in the future. For my “Shine Your Light” photography portrait artist project, Brigid chose to bring her lacrosse stick. As a talented athlete, she excels on the field. Here are words that her lacrosse coaches provided to describe Brig, “Always positive, adaptable, willing to try new things, great kid to coach, hard working…” Her peers refer to her as “fun, funny, determined, fierce, observant, and confident.”
I’ve been photographing Brigid and her family since she was about 3 years old and it was a gift to have her as part of this Artist Project.
What unique gifts and talents do you (or your child) bring to this world? We ALL have gifts to share…even if it’s simply your smile. Celebrate and share your gifts by shining your light on the world and we will all shine brighter.

As a Limited Edition Artist Project, I will be offering special “Shine Your Light” studio sessions. If we all shine our light, we will help others who are feeling lost in the darkness as well. I’ll be posting more images of adults and children shining their light. 

Everyone has a Story. Let’s Tell Yours Together.

Copyright Susan Ogar Photography 2023. All Rights Reserved