For our Volunteer Photographers
Rick Harris
Background information:
I’m 66! I’ve been an IT Project Manager for many years.
My lovely daughter, Brianna, and her partner Salim, volunteered with BRIGHT Run when they attended McMaster University. They’ve both graduated and received their doctorate degrees and now live near Ottawa.
I’ve been a volunteer BRIGHT Run photographer since 2009. I will always say, the day of the event is the nicest day on my calendar. Although we were sidelined for a couple of years because of the pandemic, I’m always happy to volunteer my time and talents. I’ve been involved for 15 years.
Why/how did you originally get involved with BRIGHT Run?
Back in 2009, BRIGHT Run volunteer Bev Pond asked if I would volunteer, and I happily signed up. Bev and I were neighbours in Whitby.
What kinds of pictures are you looking for on event day?
Pictures that highlight the joy of the day. Pictures packed with emotion. Plenty of people can take pictures using their cell phones, which is great! I want to capture something different, so I prefer candid photographs, natural and unstaged.
Do you have a favourite photo among those you have shot on event day?
That’s a little like choosing a favourite child. I count dozens of photos among my favourites. The ones that stand out the most are those moments when people cross the finish line. They celebrate the accomplishment and the emotions are very real. Of course some finish the run in memory of a loved one; those photos are particularly poignant.
How would you describe your BRIGHT Run experience to people considering volunteering with BRIGHT Run?
It’s an enriching experience. It’s always a memorable, emotional, joyous day. The positivity is energizing, and everyone involved senses it, including participants, survivors and volunteers.
If you could summarize your BRIGHT Run experience in one word, what would it be?
Joyous
