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100 Cameras Were Given To Homeless In London And The Result Left Everyone Speechless

This July, Cafe Art, a UK based initiative that allows the homeless to express themselves through art and photography, gave 100 Fujifilm disposable cameras to the homeless in London. Basic training was provided by the Royal Photographic Society, and then the camera recipients were asked to take photos with the theme “My London.”

Eighty of the one-hundred cameras were returned and around 2,500 photos were developed. 20 photos were chosen by judges from Fujifilm, Amateur Photographer, the London Photo Festival, Christie’s, and Homeless Link. Presently, there is a Kickstarter campaign to turn some of these photos into a 2016 calendar.

“All the money raised goes back into the project,” Cafe Art says, “either to pay for the printing of the photographs and calendar, rewarding the winning photographers, buying art materials for art groups affected by homelessness or helping individuals attend art courses.”

More info: cafeart.org.uk | facebook | twitter | kickstarter (h/t: demilked, petapixel)

Photo by ROL, Which Was Voted To Be The Cover

“We are inspired by the artists and photographers who participate in the project. If it wasn’t for them, we couldn’t create the exhibition and calendar,” CAFÉ ART’s Paul Ryan told Bored Panda

“Telephone Row, Lincoln’s Inn” by XO

“It takes a few months to organise the contest. We have now done it a few times so we can get more done in less time”

“Left Boot, East London” by Ellen Rostant

“Both partners in this project, Michael and I both do this because we enjoy making a difference in people’s lives. The photos are beautiful, but the changes in the people who took them is even more beautiful to witness”

“Nature’s Tunnel or Light and the End, Stratford” by Ellen Rostant

“We are inspired by the international response to the Kickstarter campaign this week. People have sent us incredible messages of support and it really does make you realise that there are many people who not only care about helping people affected by homelessness, but they are inspired to join us”

“Everything I Own or Bags of Life, Strand” by David Tovey

“Colour Festival, Olympic Park” by Goska Calik

“Past & Present, City of London” by Ioanna Zagkana

“Tyre Break, Hackney” by Desmond Henry

“Tower Bridge PICNIC, Southwark” by Cecie

“West End Bird, Westminster” by Zin

“The Artist, Whitechapel” by Michael Crosswaite

“Shadow of Self, Hyde Park” by Goska Calik

80 Cameras Returned With Over 2500 Pictures. Voting Determined The Winners

The Kickstarter Pitch And The Importance Of Disposable Cameras:

763Kviews

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DavidTovey 9 years ago

Hello, My name is David Tovey and I'm one of those photographers, Some people say that this project does not help get us off the streets, well actually it does more than that, This project has changed my life, I was a broken man and dying on the streets off london, i entered this competition and got last years cover shot and April shot. from the exposure I've had work shown in New York, London, my pictures have been seen around the world, I got to meet the deputy Mayor Rio and donated a picture to him for a homeless day centre in Rio. Ive had a picture shown in Christies of London. My health and depression has improved, I'm now housed and I'm doing several volunteering jobs with the homeless and I'm now having a Documentary made about me. This all happened because of CafeArt. THEY SAVED MY LIFE. So to all the Critics out there all I'm gonna say is... HOW MANY LIFES HAVE YOU SAVED!

503points

StephaniePajonas 9 years ago

Thank you for sharing your story!

76points

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LizTaylor 9 years ago

Amazing! Your photo is beautiful and I am so happy that your life is so much better now. But remember, YOU did this. Yes, you had help, but YOU are the success.

11points

MalickiBeser 9 years ago

we need good people...we need more of them. lots of them. whoever has been involved in this project, I love them all without knowing them. stay safe, mate.

8points

TrinaRisos 9 years ago

You rule David! Thank you for inspiring me. I needed this today.

3points

DaleDearing 9 years ago

Great to hear of your save, David!! What a proud feeling for me. The intangible nature of expression thru visually capturing moments, ideas, realities, ideals, life, around each of use every day, is priceless...and balm for the tormented souls we all have. Thank you!

3points

RemyWhiting 9 years ago

Hi David Tovey, I'd love to talk to you sometime when you are free, I run Snap Foundation where we take photography to children in deprived areas of Africa but would love to discuss some possible options in the UK, perhaps we could work on something together!? My email is info@remywhiting.com and checkout www.snap.foundation Thanks and congratulations for your hard work paying off.

2points

StephanieHall 9 years ago

I'm so impressed David, thanks so much for sharing. I loved your work and wish you all good things for the future.

2points

JanineTate 9 years ago

How fantastic. Good on you, and them. We all need a hand up, and I don't mean a hand out, sometimes. Enjoy your new life !

2points

GraceBarclay 9 years ago

Hi David. Thank you for taking the beautiful pictures. I wish you well in your life ahead. I am so glad that you have chosen to live. To choose to live is knowing that things are not always going to ok. You get through the days and nights and then a new day dawns and you have another day to try. I salute your strength. Know that there are people out there who care about you. Take care of yourself - you have wonderful talent hiding somewhere in your soul. Give it the sunlight it deserves.

2points

TracySparkhead 9 years ago

Just the lives of doggies. :-) seriously though, good for you - I'm so happy that this project helped you turn your life around for he better. And in fact - reading your post has inspired me. I've always wanted to take a photography class, but never got around to signing up. I have the opportunity and am not taking advantage of it = shame on me. I'm going to sign up for a class at the community college next semester. Thank you David - thank you for sharing your story.

2points

MichaelVagnoni 9 years ago

David thanks for sharing your story. I get chill bumps reading how photography can help people get back on the path of life. I hope the rest f your life is equally blessed. Cheers to you and the others that you have and will inspire.

2points

JamesJohanson 9 years ago

awesome story man, keep it up +_God bless!

1point

AshifHassan 9 years ago

Thank you also for giving these beautiful art work

1point

EvaMourey 9 years ago

Happy to hear that you are feeling better and your life is going upwards again!

1point

YumiTsukada 9 years ago

im happy it gives you get off and go next step for another person around the world :) please show your great activities and give them hope for All the people especially who need volunteering ;)

1point

ElizabethCarrillo 9 years ago

Amazing! Thanks for your story and it is wonderful to know of the impact this project has made. :)

1point

RogerStritmatter 9 years ago

Congratulations David. Keep up the great work.

1point

TerriGold 9 years ago

Congratulations. May your experience help others and may your own tolerance grow regarding the non-believers.

1point

PennyJames 9 years ago

David, thank you for that testimonial. I wish many more blessings to come your way.

1point

isabeLhdzJ 9 years ago

Your picture was the best!

1point

AmiMcManus 9 years ago

Thank you :) lovely to hear how these thing really do change lives. Congratulations.

1point

JoaoCamacho 9 years ago

Very good David. That's the trick: The Concept. Doesn't mind if someone has study a lot but hasnt the right feeling for doing poetry with images explaining what goes inside you and your collegues. That's nice. Good guys CafeArt.

1point

ElleFitzgerald 9 years ago

Congratulations Davis Tovey, on all your achievements! ..I hope you keep taking pictures and continue to share them.

1point

Ruellen 8 years ago

Thank you, David and good luck, wish you all the best! :)

0points

CherylPenney 8 years ago

As a photographer and advocate for the homeless in Toronto, I cannot express how heartwarming this video was for me to watch. I know first hand how it feels to take a photograph and LOVE it, to believe in it, and to connect with it. Its a huge booster of confidence and gives you something to live for. I am so in love with this kickstarter and I wish everyone the best of luck!

0points

JennyJozwiak 9 years ago

Fantastic!!! Art is LIFE!!!

0points

LindaAbbott 9 years ago

Congratulations and I am so happy that you have once again engaged in life. You have a beautiful eye and a wonderful talent...and also, a beautiful heart. Bless you for giving back helping the homeless. You, more than anyone else, understand what they are feeling. May success continue to grow in your life. You are an inspiration.

0points

KatherineDunn 9 years ago

I just googled you, you're such an inspiration.

0points

CindyOlesonSwartz 9 years ago

Way to go David! Keep it up!

0points

MagdaZiemak 9 years ago

I think its an amazing project and u proive it to be priceless!!!

0points

JanAntonevich-Vresics 9 years ago

Someone should publish a book of their work and. Give them the royalties.

61points

JeffHubbard 9 years ago

They make a calendar of those images chosen by judges and also by the public. I believe you can find out more on the Cafe Art website.

19points

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AnnaDewart 9 years ago

What a fine idea, Jan!

1point

MecheleEbert 9 years ago

Only when they do that tends someone else get a huge chunk of the proceeds not the intended worthy cause..

0points

PeggyCarey 9 years ago

I love this. Great photography tells a story . . .as these do.

24points

ShelleyMcgilvray 9 years ago

why not do this all around the word take the homeless and less fortunate off the unsafe streets i raise my hand to that

3points

SamanthaLucy 9 years ago

Love this idea - great to hear it's changed some people's lives!

3points

VlachoBallesteros-Moreno 9 years ago

Lovely story! I would love to see all photographs in a book and support the homeless. Bravo !

3points

genny 9 years ago

David God bless you and continue doing great things in your life i wish you happynes and health is the most importan things in life.....money comes and goes!!! :)

3points

GrégorySteenbeek 9 years ago

Beautiful project

3points

KimGuereschi 9 years ago

Wonderful!

2points

SuspeitoDoCostume 9 years ago

I don't understand how these photos left everyone speechless(???)... They are photos taken by grown up people. The photos are normal photos. Nothing special at all... neither great nor bad. Just because it's a "project", everybody wants / have to be trendy and cool so they must say they feel amazed be these masterpieces(!?!). On the other side, the money reaising is an initiative of praise.

1point

LindaAbbott 9 years ago

Several of the photos are as good as any I have seen taken by professional photographers. But even if they weren't, what they do is show the world that those faceless, homeless people are people who see beauty and are worthy of better. I'm sorry you can't see the meaning in those photos.

0points

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DanielLaw 9 years ago

These are as good or better than some I've seen touted by professionals.

1point

-- 8 years ago

The left boot is a right boot

0points

EllenEmpson 9 years ago

These images put you in the shoes of the shooters. I feel like I am right there. What a GREAT project. David Tovey, I am so , so very happy for you!!!!

0points

MaríaSabelliCouñago 9 years ago

Thank you all for this project...! It´s amazing. This kind of helps must be duplicate all world around.Thank you again.

0points

R.D.Collins 9 years ago

Great project! Just because someone is poor doesn't mean they're blind, and photography is all abut the eye and the mind, not the price of one's equipment.

0points

R.D.Collins 9 years ago

Great project! Just because someone is poor doesn't mean they're blind, and photography is all about the eye and mind, not the price of one's equipment.

0points

MónicaElisabethSacco 9 years ago

It's a great initiative. People not only need money to survive: they need to express themselves. To generate their own form of art. Incredible stories, incredible art. Congratulations!

0points

D.M.Mitchell 9 years ago

Very good.

0points

KristinKavannah 9 years ago

that is brilliant

0points

EllyEssenberg 9 years ago

Great achievement. Congratulations.

0points

DoanhSiu 9 years ago

Good for you David Tovey! I hope others get a chance of changing their lives too.

0points

EarlineDufrene 9 years ago

Wonderful !

0points

PippaPi 9 years ago

Awesome

0points

BetsyBuchanan 9 years ago

I think this project is just wonderful! It should become a pattern for many other cities to follow! I really enjoyed the photos - and the comments by the artists.

0points

TerriGold 9 years ago

Fantastic.

0points

LauraGray 9 years ago

what a wonderful gift - both in the idea but also in the photos themselves! wish I were in London and able to actually meet some of these folks.

0points

BetsyBuchanan 9 years ago

What a wonderful project! I live in a small town in the US and think this would be a great project for my town and many others here - and across the globe! I am going to share this idea with others..... Great work! - and Wonderful photos!

0points

DaleMoar 9 years ago

I think this is a great idea, and the pictures are really good!!

0points

LisaGreene 9 years ago

This is wonderful! David Tovey, thanks for sharing your amazing story!

0points

SharaLynnKelsey 9 years ago

I would like to buy a calendar, but don't know how. Clicking on the notice on the end of the film got me a black screen. Help, please.

0points

BarbaraHarrell 9 years ago

I think these shots are wonderful...and it does give the person a sense of purpose...something I feel they lack being in their situation...David thank you for your story..I wish you nothing but success and to the others I hope it brought them "HOPE" also.

0points

AnnaDewart 9 years ago

Oh, just such wonderful work these "photographers" have done; thank you, and may you all meet with nothing but success, good health, and contentment, in years to come!

0points

pajd 9 years ago

You are inspiring and so is the project......

0points

JaneFurniss 9 years ago

Amazing project; wonderful photos; moving stories on the video. Jane

0points

JaneFurniss 9 years ago

Amazing project; wonderful photos; v moving stories on the video. Jane

0points

SharonMarie 9 years ago

I think that's an amazing story David ... I'm in Australia and don't ever think any program is wasted on our homeless , they bring motivation, a reason to get up in the morning and the rest is a bonus ... Good on you David luv yr work and wish u well :-))

0points

KenriBasar 9 years ago

LOVELY initiative. Wow really... This more a personal take on the term "street photography". Lovely photos and on a random note "Film is still alive and kicking"...

0points

LuciusCavaleri 9 years ago

This is another proof that society let it most brillant minds diying on the street. This is another proof that society want only dumbass zombies to consume without any questions. Sad sad sad story!

0points

ClaireOliver 9 years ago

Thank you David and thank you CafeArt, this is so inspirational. I think i would like to do something like this in South Africa my home.

0points

PiaJohn 9 years ago

No one expected them to be any good at photography? Because they are homeless?

0points

TonyPacelli 9 years ago

great story and thank you for sharing, is there a link for this project?

0points

DavidTovey 9 years ago

check out Cafeartuk on Facebook and there you can seethe other great stuff they do

0points

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LauraPeters 9 years ago

I think this is beyond amazing...there are no words. I am touched and moved by this, truly. Beautiful and inspiring.

0points

DavidTovey 9 years ago

CafeArt has helped with many aspects of my life, The Independent newspaper in Britain wrote my story last year, Heres the link below. Cafeart as well as The Pilion Trust have been there for me 24/7 http://www.independent.co.uk/news/people/david-tovey-has-weathered-cancer-cardiac-arrest-hiv-and-homelessness--and-hes-only-39-9624156.html?origin=internalSearch

0points

OttosukeRtwclub 9 years ago

Wow amazing photo & story :)

0points

LuckyLambdin 9 years ago

The photos follow the classic bell-curve of statistics. Some good, some not-so-good, mostly average. Why does it make any difference that the photographers are homeless? Is it supposed to be like watching an idiot-savant play a difficult Mozart piece on the piano after having heard it only once or something? Are we supposed to be surprised that a homeless person has any artistic sense at all? Someone please explain.

-2points

MeredithButterworth 9 years ago

You must be a lot of fun at parties.

0points

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guess 9 years ago

This comment is hidden. Click here to view.

BrittanyCurtis 9 years ago

Perhaps the purpose was to give a different perspective on life-- his much value does a smile have to you? A cup of coffee? Lose everything and then answer.

8points

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JeffHubbard 9 years ago

Art in homeless centres and in this case too, is not specifically designed to give someone a shot at becoming an artist, getting a home or a job directly.................BUT it is a fact that providing a place and a time to participate in such activety does help people to socialise in a positive way, can help rebuild confidence and motivate people to start getting their lives back on track. I know this for a fact. In 2007 I was street homeless,I joined a photography workshop at Crisis. I began running that workshop and working as a freelance photographer.in 2010. My little victory over myself is just one such story in many. So yes, something seemingly so minor and somehow beside the point can be the first step out hell.

3points

CourtneyAcevedo 9 years ago

You never know. Someone at a higher power might like some of these, and pay them for these pics.

2points

ElenaRay 9 years ago

read the above comment

1point

TomTaylor 9 years ago

Read Mr. Tovey's comment. :-)

1point

POST

DavidTovey 9 years ago

503points

StephaniePajonas 9 years ago

Thank you for sharing your story!

76points

Load More Replies...

LizTaylor 9 years ago

Amazing! Your photo is beautiful and I am so happy that your life is so much better now. But remember, YOU did this. Yes, you had help, but YOU are the success.

11points

MalickiBeser 9 years ago

we need good people...we need more of them. lots of them. whoever has been involved in this project, I love them all without knowing them. stay safe, mate.

8points

TrinaRisos 9 years ago

You rule David! Thank you for inspiring me. I needed this today.

3points

DaleDearing 9 years ago

3points

RemyWhiting 9 years ago

2points

StephanieHall 9 years ago

I'm so impressed David, thanks so much for sharing. I loved your work and wish you all good things for the future.

2points

JanineTate 9 years ago

How fantastic. Good on you, and them. We all need a hand up, and I don't mean a hand out, sometimes. Enjoy your new life !

2points

GraceBarclay 9 years ago

2points

TracySparkhead 9 years ago

2points

MichaelVagnoni 9 years ago

2points

JamesJohanson 9 years ago

awesome story man, keep it up +_God bless!

1point

AshifHassan 9 years ago

Thank you also for giving these beautiful art work

1point

EvaMourey 9 years ago

Happy to hear that you are feeling better and your life is going upwards again!

1point

YumiTsukada 9 years ago

im happy it gives you get off and go next step for another person around the world :) please show your great activities and give them hope for All the people especially who need volunteering ;)

1point

ElizabethCarrillo 9 years ago

Amazing! Thanks for your story and it is wonderful to know of the impact this project has made. :)

1point

RogerStritmatter 9 years ago

Congratulations David. Keep up the great work.

1point

TerriGold 9 years ago

Congratulations. May your experience help others and may your own tolerance grow regarding the non-believers.

1point

PennyJames 9 years ago

David, thank you for that testimonial. I wish many more blessings to come your way.

1point

isabeLhdzJ 9 years ago

Your picture was the best!

1point

AmiMcManus 9 years ago

Thank you :) lovely to hear how these thing really do change lives. Congratulations.

1point

JoaoCamacho 9 years ago

1point

ElleFitzgerald 9 years ago

Congratulations Davis Tovey, on all your achievements! ..I hope you keep taking pictures and continue to share them.

1point

Ruellen 8 years ago

Thank you, David and good luck, wish you all the best! :)

0points

CherylPenney 8 years ago

0points

JennyJozwiak 9 years ago

Fantastic!!! Art is LIFE!!!

0points

LindaAbbott 9 years ago

0points

KatherineDunn 9 years ago

I just googled you, you're such an inspiration.

0points

CindyOlesonSwartz 9 years ago

Way to go David! Keep it up!

0points

MagdaZiemak 9 years ago

I think its an amazing project and u proive it to be priceless!!!

0points

JanAntonevich-Vresics 9 years ago

Someone should publish a book of their work and. Give them the royalties.

61points

JeffHubbard 9 years ago

They make a calendar of those images chosen by judges and also by the public. I believe you can find out more on the Cafe Art website.

19points

Load More Replies...

AnnaDewart 9 years ago

What a fine idea, Jan!

1point

MecheleEbert 9 years ago

Only when they do that tends someone else get a huge chunk of the proceeds not the intended worthy cause..

0points

PeggyCarey 9 years ago

I love this. Great photography tells a story . . .as these do.

24points

ShelleyMcgilvray 9 years ago

why not do this all around the word take the homeless and less fortunate off the unsafe streets i raise my hand to that

3points

SamanthaLucy 9 years ago

Love this idea - great to hear it's changed some people's lives!

3points

VlachoBallesteros-Moreno 9 years ago

Lovely story! I would love to see all photographs in a book and support the homeless. Bravo !

3points

genny 9 years ago

David God bless you and continue doing great things in your life i wish you happynes and health is the most importan things in life.....money comes and goes!!! :)

3points

GrégorySteenbeek 9 years ago

Beautiful project

3points

KimGuereschi 9 years ago

Wonderful!

2points

SuspeitoDoCostume 9 years ago

1point

LindaAbbott 9 years ago

0points

Load More Replies...

DanielLaw 9 years ago

These are as good or better than some I've seen touted by professionals.

1point

-- 8 years ago

The left boot is a right boot

0points

EllenEmpson 9 years ago

These images put you in the shoes of the shooters. I feel like I am right there. What a GREAT project. David Tovey, I am so , so very happy for you!!!!

0points

MaríaSabelliCouñago 9 years ago

Thank you all for this project...! It´s amazing. This kind of helps must be duplicate all world around.Thank you again.

0points

R.D.Collins 9 years ago

Great project! Just because someone is poor doesn't mean they're blind, and photography is all abut the eye and the mind, not the price of one's equipment.

0points

R.D.Collins 9 years ago

Great project! Just because someone is poor doesn't mean they're blind, and photography is all about the eye and mind, not the price of one's equipment.

0points

MónicaElisabethSacco 9 years ago

It's a great initiative. People not only need money to survive: they need to express themselves. To generate their own form of art. Incredible stories, incredible art. Congratulations!

0points

D.M.Mitchell 9 years ago

Very good.

0points

KristinKavannah 9 years ago

that is brilliant

0points

EllyEssenberg 9 years ago

Great achievement. Congratulations.

0points

DoanhSiu 9 years ago

Good for you David Tovey! I hope others get a chance of changing their lives too.

0points

EarlineDufrene 9 years ago

Wonderful !

0points

PippaPi 9 years ago

Awesome

0points

BetsyBuchanan 9 years ago

I think this project is just wonderful! It should become a pattern for many other cities to follow! I really enjoyed the photos - and the comments by the artists.

0points

TerriGold 9 years ago

Fantastic.

0points

LauraGray 9 years ago

what a wonderful gift - both in the idea but also in the photos themselves! wish I were in London and able to actually meet some of these folks.

0points

BetsyBuchanan 9 years ago

0points

DaleMoar 9 years ago

I think this is a great idea, and the pictures are really good!!

0points

LisaGreene 9 years ago

This is wonderful! David Tovey, thanks for sharing your amazing story!

0points

SharaLynnKelsey 9 years ago

I would like to buy a calendar, but don't know how. Clicking on the notice on the end of the film got me a black screen. Help, please.

0points

BarbaraHarrell 9 years ago

0points

AnnaDewart 9 years ago

Oh, just such wonderful work these "photographers" have done; thank you, and may you all meet with nothing but success, good health, and contentment, in years to come!

0points

pajd 9 years ago

You are inspiring and so is the project......

0points

JaneFurniss 9 years ago

Amazing project; wonderful photos; moving stories on the video. Jane

0points

JaneFurniss 9 years ago

Amazing project; wonderful photos; v moving stories on the video. Jane

0points

SharonMarie 9 years ago

0points

KenriBasar 9 years ago

LOVELY initiative. Wow really... This more a personal take on the term "street photography". Lovely photos and on a random note "Film is still alive and kicking"...

0points

LuciusCavaleri 9 years ago

This is another proof that society let it most brillant minds diying on the street. This is another proof that society want only dumbass zombies to consume without any questions. Sad sad sad story!

0points

ClaireOliver 9 years ago

Thank you David and thank you CafeArt, this is so inspirational. I think i would like to do something like this in South Africa my home.

0points

PiaJohn 9 years ago

No one expected them to be any good at photography? Because they are homeless?

0points

TonyPacelli 9 years ago

great story and thank you for sharing, is there a link for this project?

0points

DavidTovey 9 years ago

check out Cafeartuk on Facebook and there you can seethe other great stuff they do

0points

Load More Replies...

LauraPeters 9 years ago

I think this is beyond amazing...there are no words. I am touched and moved by this, truly. Beautiful and inspiring.

0points

DavidTovey 9 years ago

0points

OttosukeRtwclub 9 years ago

Wow amazing photo & story :)

0points

LuckyLambdin 9 years ago

-2points

MeredithButterworth 9 years ago

You must be a lot of fun at parties.

0points

Load More Replies...

guess 9 years ago

This comment is hidden. Click here to view.

BrittanyCurtis 9 years ago

Perhaps the purpose was to give a different perspective on life-- his much value does a smile have to you? A cup of coffee? Lose everything and then answer.

8points

Load More Replies...