Picture the Good is a space (both physical and mental) inspired by creativity and kinship, and dedicated to making the world a brighter place – one person, picture and project at a time. We officially opened during a pandemic -- so fitting for a place that believes in looking ahead, that believes that everyday to-do lists are meant to be interrupted by joyful diversions, and that believes in supporting those who need help most by giving back to the community.
In addition to photography sessions, we offer creative and empowering workshops for all ages both onsite (outdoors for now) and virtually through Zoom, as well as periodic Makers’ Markets featuring work by local artisans. We proudly donate 10% of all profits to a different charity each month.
We are delighted to be your local source for new inspiration each month at Picture the Good: Studio + Workshop. We hope you'll join "the good!"
Simply stated, Emily is a professional storyteller. (She's also a dreamer, a cancer survivor, a novice surfer, a mama's girl, and also a proud mama and wife herself). She is passionate about telling sincere stories of everyday people through both prints and prose. Based in Crofton, Emily has been a favorite D.C.- area photographer since 2012, creating art out of genuine connection for families and couples; and helping small business owners, political candidates and artists reach new audiences through dynamic images. In 2019, she was named one of Washington, D.C.’s Top 10 Family Photographers by Peerspace.
In 2018, Emily completed her Masters in Nonfiction Writing at Johns Hopkins University - something that took her 10 years, three children and one cancer victory to accomplish. Her words and pictures have appeared in magazines and the Smithsonian Institution's ongoing blog, and she has been hired to craft speeches and articles for clients ranging from the U.S. Secret Service to various private sector corporations. (As a certified editor, she's also a total word nerd).
Emily started Picture the Good: Studio + Workshop as a way to look forward after a personal tragedy and breast cancer in 2015, and to encourage others as well. Emily always knew that if she found a commercial space in Crofton, she wanted it to be more than only a studio for her own photography, but also a little creative hub where the community could be inspired by new hobbies and healthy habits; where families could share in workshops alongside their neighbors and friends; where local artisans could be showcased, and where nonprofits could be supported through each experience. It sounds like a lofty goal, but we've already achieved each of these things in the few months since we officially opened - during a pandemic, no less! But we're just getting started.
Image courtesy: ALN Images
Erin is our studio manager. Originally from the mid-west, Erin loves to create with repurposed materials and do everything the hard way. Her favorite creative outlets include gardening, knitting, sewing, string art, and general DIY around the house. She has a degree in parks, recreation and tourism planning from Michigan State University and spent a few years working as a camp director, community recreation program planner, and after-school program coordinator before becoming a stay-at-home mom for a time. Erin loves to help others learn new skills that they can continue to use and hone as creative outlets. She lives in Crofton with her active-duty military husband, two lovely little girls and two rambunctious dogs.
Image courtesy: Emily Karcher Photography, LLC
Erin (left) and Emily at our first Makers' Market Showcase in 2020, which raised $430 for Burgers and Bands for Suicide Prevention through nearly 30 artisan vendors and local nonprofits. We're always looking to showcase community talent.
We offer many themed mini sessions throughout the year! Mini sessions last 10 minutes and come with one digital high-resolution photo of your choice. A digital gallery is provided to every customer to choose their favorite photo from. Add-on images and designer display products are always available.
Howl-o-ween Pet Mini Sessions
Custom School Sessions
School Yearbook Sessions
Family Mini Sessions
High School Senior Mini Sessions
Gratitude Sessions for Frontline COVID Workers and Teachers
We offer classes of all kinds for adults, children and the whole family! Currently, all of our classes are taking place on Zoom during the winter months. Let us help you stay creative while you stay well. Gift certificates are available and make great gifts, just ask!
String art - Sharks, Harry Potter, Koalas, Mountains
Happy Little Art Club
Happy Camper Snow Globes
Harvest Wreaths
Rustic Door Signs
A Cookie + A Craft: Clay Hedgehogs, Snowmen
Sew a Baby Yoda, Penguin, Turkey Finger Puppet
Adult Beginner Hand Sewing
Hand-Stamped Holiday Drink Charms
Food Photography 101
Art-o-ween
A Cookie + A Craft: School Bus Frames
A Cookie + A Craft: Halloween Dream Catchers
Each month, we choose a different charity to donate 10% of our profits to.
Light House is a homeless prevention support center located in Annapolis. It is a place where the area’s most vulnerable neighbors can find belonging and hope. Integrated care and services are tailored for each client and their individual needs and include: food, clothing, shelter, mental and physical health care, addiction help, employment services, and development of employment skills. Light House offers emergency shelter each night for up to 45 individuals and 5 families, providing them with hot meals, clothing, showers, laundry, and case management. Light House helps find employment to allow for permanent housing for individuals in need by offering a three-week training program that includes resume development, interview preparation, employment search, and personal development workshops. Light House also operates a 50-seat bistro and catering restaurant on site where clients learn marketable job skills with hands-on training. For 30 years, Light House has been bringing hope to Anne Arundel County.
Our previous beneficiaries:
Burgers and Bands for Suicide Prevention
Backpacks of Love by The Blue Ribbon Project
Questions? Suggestions? Join the good! Drop us a note in the form below, or email us directly at picturethegoodstudio@gmail.com.
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