Capturing Moments That Last Forever

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Hello Band Parents!

Welcome to all our new potential volunteers and welcome back to our returning volunteers! For our returning folks, much of this will be a review.

New Parents, don't worry—we haven't signed you up for anything...yet! We know it's a busy time as we gear up for the new school year, but we wanted to reach out and set expectations for what's happening over the summer and into the fall with the Pope Band Photo Team.

First, let us say that the Photo Team is the most fun team because we get to hang out with our amazing kids and take great photos of them all year long! Attached is some information about how the team works and what the volunteer role entails.

It's actually a pretty easy (and fun) gig! Here are the key points:

• You absolutely don't have to be a professional photographer (and if you want, we are happy to give "lessons").

• You don't need expensive camera equipment (though having a basic digital SLR camera works best).

• We need people who love being around the kids and can help capture their moments at all events. There are a LOT of events, which is why we need a dedicated photo team!

The time commitment depends on how often you sign up to cover a band event. For some events, like a band breakfast or dinner, or even a band camp day, you just need to show up, take a few photos, and then leave. Concert coverage can require 1-2 hours, while football games might take a bit longer with the halftime show. Full marching band competition show days can take a full day commitment, starting early and finishing late (especially if the band wins any trophies or awards). These events are SUPER fun, and most meals are included! Occasionally, there are travel competition shows or trips requiring a whole weekend, but that happens only 1-2 times a year.

To prepare our team for the new year (if we haven't scared you off yet—we promise, we're not that scary! Did we mention how fun this team is?), we need a little more information from you!

NEW & RETURNING PARENTS: Please complete our annual Photo Team Google Form at your earliest convenience so we can plan for next year. If you’re not the parent who expressed interest in photography (the list includes both parents' info), please remind your partner to fill out the form.

Most Photo Team communications are done via email, including training, upcoming events, special requests, etc. We don’t send a lot of emails, and this is by far the longest one you'll get all year! During band events, we generally communicate via text. The good news is our photo pre-season kicks off in early July with Pre-Band Camp, and the Photo Team officially ramps up during football season in late August!

Last thing! If you want to think about being on the photo team or want to meet us and ask questions first, great! You've got time! If you're excited and ready to join now, all photo team members wear photo team shirts (which can help us get into football games for free), and you can order them HERE. If you want to wait until the start of school, there will be another opportunity to order a shirt in September.

If you have any questions, please reach out to one of us. Thanks so much! Enjoy the rest of the summer with your kiddos!

Respectfully,

Sean Basile