LEXINGTON PARK, Md. — What began as a simple Facebook group for local photographers has grown into a powerful community-building grassroots movement. SOMD Photography, founded by local photographer Brian Haislip, is proud to officially launch as the Southern Maryland chapter of Full Frame Foundation, a 501(c)(3) nonprofit dedicated to using photography as a tool for connection, empowerment and positive community impact.
SOMD Photography’s mission is to make photography accessible, inclusive and collaborative — bringing together people of all ages and skill levels to connect through creativity.
“We’re not just a team of eight,” says Haislip. “We’re a network — photographers, creatives and community members working together to create an environment where people can be successful.”
Through gallery events, mentorship programs, community outreach and educational workshops, SOMD Photography supports local talent while creating spaces where photographers can share their work and grow their skills — all at no cost to participate.
That mission was on full display at the organization’s first gallery event in June 2025, hosted at The Calvert Studio and generously sponsored by Jennifer Casey Photography. Twenty-five photographers, including five youth artists, were featured in a professional-style gallery. The event welcomed many visitors throughout the day and generated nearly $2,000 in sales, all of which went directly to the artists.
But the true success came in the stories. One young participant, initially too nervous to join, was supported by Haislip and team member Casi Chisholm. They helped him print, mount and display 20 of his photos, giving him his own personal gallery wall.
“He stood there in disbelief,” Haislip recalls. “He said, ‘You have no idea what this means to me.’ It was a life-changing moment — for him, and for all of us.”
Unlike traditional art shows, SOMD Photography events are completely free for photographers. Thanks to community donations and local sponsors, all supplies, printing and display materials are covered — removing financial barriers and putting the spotlight where it belongs: on the artists.
Behind the scenes is a team of volunteers specializing in event planning, social media, marketing, design and program development. Together, they’re building something truly community-powered — where passion, not profit, drives the work.
“We’re not here to take from the creative community,” says Haislip. “We’re here to help it thrive.”
From full-time professionals to weekend hobbyists, SOMD Photography is proof that creativity, when shared with compassion, can transform not only images — but lives.
Want to get involved?
Photographers, creatives, community partners and supporters are invited to connect with SOMD Photography by visiting their Facebook page or emailing info@somdphotography.org.
You can also join one of their public or private Facebook groups dedicated to photographers in Calvert, Charles and St. Mary’s counties:
- SOMD Photography (Main organization page)
- SoMD Photography (Private group serving tri-county)
- SoMD Photography – St. Mary’s County, MD (Public group)
- SoMD Photography – Calvert County, MD (Public group)
- SoMD Photography – Charles County, MD (Public group)
- SoMD Photography – Marketplace (Southern Maryland photography for sale)
- Full Frame Foundation (Main nonprofit page)
About SOMD Photography
SOMD Photography is a volunteer-led platform for photographers in Southern Maryland, operating as a chapter of Full Frame Foundation, a nonprofit dedicated to using photography to uplift communities. Through free events, inclusive programs and heartfelt storytelling, SOMD Photography helps photographers grow, connect and give back — one frame at a time.
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