Atlanta

Film maker finding new opportunity spreading joy by shooting ‘porchtraits’

ATLANTA — Unemployed Georgians are desperate to make ends meet.

Some are finding creative ways to make some cash while putting a smile on the faces of strangers.

They're called ‘porchtraits’ and they've become a social media sensation.

Channel 2′s Michael Seiden spoke with local filmmaker Aaron Levine who has been traveling across metro Atlanta using his talent to capture daily life in the era of social distancing

“They’re called 'porchtraits' because you stay on your porch and I stay on the streets. Very strict about it,” Levine said.

After graduating from film school in Chicago, the Marietta native returned home where he began directing, writing and shooting his own short films.

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He also worked as a freelance photographer until the coronavirus pandemic hit.

The 27-year-old found himself unemployed with no money to pay his rent.

“I actually filed for unemployment for the first time,” Levine said.

He said his girlfriend Alexis stood by his side and inspired him to find a way to get creative.

“All families are home right now. All couples are home. Friends are home, so we just put an ad out on Nextdoor,” Levine said. “Within those three hours, we got our first three people.”

Five weeks later, business is booming.

“We pitch it as purely donation based. Whatever anyone can afford. We know that everyone’s wallets are tight right now,” Levine said

“So, what started as a side hustle for you and your girlfriend has actually turned into a legitimate business?” Seiden asked Levine.

“Oh yes. For the past week, I’ve been spending eight to nine hours per day on it,” Levine said.

Levine said it’s all about meeting new people and putting a smile on their faces.

“The appointment part is really important because it gives people something to look forward to,” Levine said.

But getting an appointment isn’t easy. Right now, Levine is booked solid for the week.

On Tuesday evening, Levine invited Seiden to come along as he photographed Taylor Hogan and her boyfriend Lewis Jones.

“It’s been pretty interesting, especially (because) I got laid off. He still has a job, so that’s an interesting dynamic,” Hogan said. “This is the first collar I’ve worn in three months I think,” Jones said about his outfit for the photo shoot. “We’ll always remember that it was taken during quarantine and coronavirus we’ll always remember that."

Capturing a single moment in a very uncertain time.

If you would like to schedule a ‘porchtrait’ you can email Levine at amLevine92@gmail.com. You can also follow him on Instagram at @porchtraitsofatl.