#PINKDAYTOSHINE
#pinkdaytoshine A photography event conceptualized by Nithya Rajkumar Photography celebrating and honoring the brave survivors & those gracefully battling Breast Cancer.
Story of #pinkdaytoshine
Z*** connected with me few years ago, a women professional looking for a portrait photoshoot to update her work profile image & get back to work. During my regular pre-shoot client chit chats, I came to know that Z*** is a stage 4 breast cancer survivor. She shared her story, and having one of those yearly check ups for Breast Cancer Awareness helped her recignise her condition. She shared stories of her troubled days, how her family & undeterred hope for a better day helped her through though days fighting the Cancer.
I could sense her fear being in front of the camera. Cancer had changed how her body used to be. To me she was nothing but beautiful. All I could see in front of me was a woman of great strength, passion and positivity.
I decided to offer the photoshoot for free and throw in a makeup artist who could help highlight her natural beauty & alleviate any lack of confidence if at all Z*** carried.
Z***'s words after the shoot were,"I am glad I lived to see myself like this, through your camera."
This touched something deep inside of me. I didn't realize, until then that a simple photoshoot could have had such a profound effect on another being.
I wished to offer this experience to many more survivors and to those who have been gracefully fighting Breast Cancer. To me photography has always been about celebrating life, celebrating the people & their emotions. #pinkdaytoshine was born, simply celebrating the "Zest For Life " carried by each Breast Cancer Survivor & those Fighting it.
This event isn't a fund raising event, however it shares stories, it elevates the spirits, its oozes with love & positive vibes.
#pinkdaytoshine is a casual get-together open exclusively for the Survivors & Fighters of Breast Cancer, #pinkdaytoshine is a day to connect & share the zest for life with one-another.
In 2019, I was honored to organize the 1st #pinkdaytishine photoshoot in Dubai with the support of some amazing Brands and Women Run Small Businesses with a big heart, based here in Dubai. 10 participants were offered a special Portrait Photoshoot by Nithya Rajkumar Photography & included Makeup by Professional Artists, at the venue on the day. The shoot aimed at capturing their their true essence & sharing their personal message to inspire others fighting their battle with Breast Cancer.
The event saw over 30 Brave Cancer warriors, each of whom had their unique story to tell. We shared some tearful moments & some good laughs. The best part was that everyone parted feeling Grateful & Happy.
Thanking everyone who made this event special & memorable.
Nikon Middle East as Imaging partner
Rove / Rove Marina as Location Partner , F&B
Al Jalila Foundation ,Brest Friends -supporting partner #breastfriendsdubai
Professional Hair & Makeup Artists - Paula Goia -Makeup Artist & Stylist Gracies Makeover Professional Make Up Artist, MehreeNabeel & @Blushncurlsbykoshaavora
Bunch of lovely Dubai based Women entrepreneurs
Gifts:@spontiphoria @whenindoubteatacupcake @moodmadedxb @elysiancreatifs @cratefulmomuae
Photobooth: Party Boutique Dxb @thepartyboutiquedxb
