10 Nov Storytelling with Compassion: Shelby Finkelstein and One Purse
NAPCP’s Commitment to Giving Back
This story is part of NAPCP’s Purposeful Partnerships series, highlighting photographers who use their work to support nonprofit organizations and meaningful causes. At NAPCP, we believe photographers hold a unique ability to amplify important stories through imagery. Our Purposeful Partnerships initiative recognizes photographers who use their work to support nonprofit organizations and bring visibility to important causes. By donating their skills and time, photographers help organizations share their mission in powerful and authentic ways.
Photographer Shelby Finkelstein exemplifies this spirit through her work with One Purse, an organization committed to empowering survivors of human trafficking.
Photography as a Tool for Advocacy
For Shelby, photography has always been about more than creating beautiful images. It has been about honoring stories and building connection.
When she realized how impactful professional imagery can be for nonprofits — helping them communicate their mission and reach supporters — volunteering her photography felt like a natural extension of her purpose. By supporting organizations like One Purse, Shelby helps create visual storytelling that strengthens the organization’s outreach and advocacy efforts.
Creating a Professional and Authentic Visual Presence
One of Shelby’s most meaningful projects involved photographing the leadership and board members of One Purse for their website. Each individual came to Shelby’s home studio for updated headshots. By creating a relaxed and welcoming environment, she helped the team feel confident and comfortable in front of the camera.
Afterward, the group gathered outdoors for a cohesive team portrait that felt polished but still authentic.
The project also involved thoughtful collaboration beforehand — selecting wardrobe options and a color palette that aligned with the organization’s brand identity. The result was a set of images that represented both the professionalism and heart behind the nonprofit’s mission.
Listening First: A Different Approach to Nonprofit Photography
When Shelby prepares for nonprofit photography sessions, her process begins with listening. Rather than focusing solely on technical aspects of the shoot, she spends time understanding the organization’s mission and the stories of the people involved.
This approach ensures the photographs reflect:
- Emotional authenticity
- Respect for the individuals being photographed
- The deeper purpose behind the organization’s work
While commercial photography often emphasizes branding deliverables, philanthropic photography centers on trust and storytelling.
The Lessons Philanthropy Teaches Photographers
Through her volunteer work, Shelby has learned one of the most important lessons a photographer can learn: humility.
Entering someone’s story — especially in sensitive situations — is a privilege. These experiences have taught her to slow down, listen more carefully, and approach each session with gratitude. Often, she says, the impact of the work extends far beyond the photograph itself.
A Commitment to Giving Back
Shelby and her family are also supporters of Arnold and Winnie Palmer Hospitals, where they contribute to initiatives supporting children and families. For Shelby, the most meaningful philanthropic work happens when it aligns both personally and professionally. Using photography to support organizations making a real difference allows her to contribute in a way that feels authentic to her values.
The Impact of Photography for Nonprofits
Photographers play a powerful role in helping nonprofits communicate their mission.
Strong imagery can:
- Inspire donors
- Increase visibility for a cause
- Document important work
- Build trust with communities
Through photographers like Shelby, nonprofit organizations gain a visual voice that helps their message reach farther.
To learn more about One Purse, click here.
Looking for ways to give back through your photography? Visit our guide on photography for nonprofits to learn how photographers can support charitable organizations.
This article is part of the Purposeful Partnerships series by the National Association of Portrait & Child Photographers (NAPCP), a global community dedicated to education, recognition, and connection for portrait photographers.
