When the World Shut Down

In March of 2020 the world shut down. Some of us transitioned easily to working from kitchen tables. Others were thrown into the center of hell dealing with the devastation of the pandemic as they worked to save lives, keep food on our tables, and protect those who were most vulnerable. For many, as in the case of the author, business came to a complete halt. Being locked down in the summer community she spent her childhood and raised her own children, the need to keep busy was strong and idea of capturing this time for the community was born. Over 90 families participated in preserving this time for future generations through their willingness to be photographed and share some of their personal experiences of this crazy time. Despite the difficulties we were all so blindsided by, there were many conversations had of appreciation and gratitude.

In March of 2020 the world shut down. Some of us transitioned easily to working from kitchen tables. Others were thrown into the center of hell dealing with the devastation of the pandemic as they worked to save lives, keep food on our tables, and protect those who were most vulnerable. For many, as in the case of the author, business came to a complete halt. Being locked down in the summer community she spent her childhood and raised her own children, the need to keep busy was strong and idea of capturing this time for the community was born. Over 90 families participated in preserving this time for future generations through their willingness to be photographed and share some of their personal experiences of this crazy time. Despite the difficulties we were all so blindsided by, there were many conversations had of appreciation and gratitude.

Lynn Cluess Manzione is a portrait, documentary, and fine art photographer. Her career in photography began at the age of sixteen. She has worked as a wedding and event photographer for over 25 years and began shooting model portfolios and theatrical head shots while she worked in the fashion industry as an agent at Wilhelmina Models in NYC. An award winning fine art photographer Lynn has exhibited her work at the Hopper House Gallery in Nyack, NY, and at the Photo District Gallery in NYC. Selected for a permanent exhibit, Lynn's work was added to a collection of images depicting life in Rockland County, NY. Lynn has been published in Double Exposure and Shape magazines and was selected to be a part of a book by American Photo Magazine titled "Best of American Photo Mentor Series." Her short film "In The Face Of Adversity", Dr. Martha MacGuffie's Life Story, was originally shown in Rockland County for Women's History Month. It is now the centerpiece of an inspiring program that motivates audiences to find their way to make a difference. Lynn is also the author of "A Wondrous Journey- A Small Book With Big Lessons". It is avaialable at booksellers and online