A terrific fundraiser can be set up that is Earth friendly and engaging at the same time. Since it is a well known fact that people are nuts for pictures of their children, why not hold a photo shoot fundraiser?

Environmentally friendly photo paper and ink now exists that makes taking pictures greener than ever. Digital cameras and photo printers eliminate the need for film, and cut down on misprints. All you need is a location, a laptop, a transportable printer, a few digital cameras and plenty of batteries. Get a local office supply to donate the green paper and ink, or write a letter to one of the many manufacturers detailing your upcoming fundraiser and requesting a discount – usually all you have to do is ask!

Make sure your location has good lighting, and figure out some backgrounds and props.  Different colored sheets tacked to the wall and some children’s furniture (benches, a rocking horse, etc) can make the perfect photo studio. Add a few costume accessories like a cape, a feather boa, a crown or tiara and a cowboy hat, and you will be ready to start shooting!

Don’t forget to spread the word. A flyer with a photo of a cute kid with a grin can inspire folks to bring in their own munchkins on the special day. If there is a big event in your town, you can sometimes set up adjacent to that – holidays often yield themselves to opportunities for picture taking especially when children are already dressed up.

You can also have some special paper designed to turn the photos into cards, magnets and small frames or a button machine handy. If you make bundles with a variety of products, you can convince people to buy more!

Have a designated person to help entertain and try for those special smiles. Most people will be thrilled to have an impromptu photo of their kid, and you can add to the fun by passing out cookies to the kids after their photo. This is a good bribe to get them to sit still, and a way to occupy them while you complete the order!

Once you have gotten the hang of it, you’ll be able to snap a perfectly framed shot on the first try. Have one person shooting, one entertaining, and two others filling orders and taking payment. If you are offering specialty items, a separate table away from the crowd can be set up for transformation of photos into works of art.

When you use environmentally friendly products, any sort of fundraiser can be green. You can educate people about the products you are using (another point to bring up when you are lobbying for donation of the materials). If the company who donated the products is interested, they may even send you coupons to pass out.  Everyone wins!