Like most of us, LeeAnn B. Stephan has been looking for ways to manage stress amid the COVID-19 pandemic. In search of a “quarantivity” she’s found a way to keep Acadiana connected and has some advice for those feeling disconnected.

Stephan is a professional photographer. While weddings and other events on the side have slowed down, she has stayed busy by checking on friends around Lafayette from afar, camera in-hand. It’s led to a project called Porchraits, documenting this stay-at-home era across Lafayette.

Hummel, Jim

“Acadiana in general and Lafayette we're all about togetherness and doing things together and being together and socializing a lot,” said Stephan. “So, for me it was about the experience of being apart but still being together. None of us are missing out on anything, we're still all in it together.”

So far, she’s photographed dozens of people doing their part by staying home.

“I really think it's shown how optimistic people can be and how hopeful everyone,” said Stephan. “Everybody has just just been so happy and doing things that make them happy right now.”

She’s found inspiration all around and hopes Porchraits will help connect the community and maybe inspire others who are feeling disconnected during this uncertain time.

“This is a trying time for everyone and if you can use your talent and if you can use whatever you do to spread some joy and make people happy, that's what it's all about, that's what you gotta do right now.”

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