About the project
50 children in Russia, between 14–20-year-old in Russia, most of them orphans and many with
special needs, during 4 weeks were taking the photos on their phones which associated with their
feelings of Love, Beauty and Happiness.
“We wanted them to learn how to recognise happy moments in their everyday life, how to
increase their positive emotions being in the surroundings which they cannot change.” – Natasha
Shaginian
The project shows how engagement in photography with the focus on seeing positive sensations
in the most ordinary things can change our self-perception.
PERMA test (Positive Emotion, Engagement, Relationships, Meaning and Accomplishments)
was given to the participants before and after the project. The result showed the increase of all 5
elements.
How it began
“I was inspired by the SeeingHappy online project created by photographer and psychologist
Mandy Seligman to promote individual well-being through sharing photography. Together, we
created the project Positive Emotions Through Photos.” -Natasha Shaginian
Orphaned children, especially those with disabilities, live in closed society. For them
participation in this new exciting project was a unique opportunity to push their creativity, feel
belonging, discover themselves and find meaning.
“We are building a community through art and resilience and our common humanity.” -Mandy
Seligman
“Photography can help us focus on the best in our lives, it can connect us to each other, and help
us share our stories.” - Martin Seligman
Project’s mission today
During this difficult time – ongoing war between Russia and Ukraine children suffer the most.
The project is staying on the belief: “children without borders” and focusing on their wellbeing
regardless where they come from.
Happiness
Love
Beauty
Please donate at the link below towards your favorite image!
Just mention your favorite photo in the donations comments by writing its number and we will send you a link to the image. A $25 donation is suggested however anything is greatly appreciated! Thank you so much for your support.