One of the reasons I choose to live in Lawrence is because of the arts and culture that are available to us. Being involved in my community also helps me respect all the amazing social service agencies that help keep this community afloat. When I was asked to cover the 2015 Transformations Charity Gala by my editor at lawrence.com (part of the Lawrence Journal-World family), I was excited to see what this event was all about. Though this was it's 4th year, this was my first opportunity to attend! Transformations is a really unique event, it involves 10 local women being transformed into drag queens by drag queens to perform and compete in a pageant. The crowned winner not only gets bragging rights, but $10,000 donated to the charity of her choice. This year one of our Oh Snap! assistants, Becca Burns, competed for the title and get this... she WON! And with it she was able to donate $10,000 to The Willow Domestic Violence Shelter, where she is also employed full-time. I had such a wonderful time hanging out early for some behind the scenes shots with performers and mentors. I enjoyed documenting the performances while Sarah, another Oh Snap! assistant took party pics of attendees against the Transformations step-and-repeat board. We had a wonderful time and are excited to share these photos with you! It is so great to part of a queer friendly community, and to be part of an event that raises so much money for such great causes. Congratulations to all participants! 

Check out Becca!

Spotted: Clients, the Thellman's!

Best (and youngest MC) I've ever seen! Yup, that's me on the left with clients, The Pryors and Shannon Reid! Between the three of them I've shot their wedding, their family portraits, and their holiday Christmas card photo!