“Freedom begins with an act of defiance.” 

Often photographers are called to capture milestones, events, or special occasions. In this case, the photo session was the special occasion, and the whole crew of 17 gathered together to enjoy each others company and smile for me. This sweet family often takes time to visit their Bubbie and we held our session in Bubbie’s home and filled the halls with laughter and joy. I was truly amazed when I learned Bubbie’s story. 

A Holocaust survivor, Lisa’s story is remarkable. She escaped from the Novogrudek ghetto, joined the Bielski Partisans, fought back against the Nazis, and survived against all odds. In fact the movie Defiance was all about this incredible group of Partisans.

The Bielski partisans were an organization of Jewish partisans who rescued Jews from extermination and fought against the Nazi German occupiers and their collaborators in German-occupied Poland (now western Belarus). Under their protection, 1,236 Jews survived the war, making it one of most remarkable rescue missions in the Holocaust. My grandparents were survivors as well, and while we don’t know much about my grandfather’s role, we know he too was a Partisan in the forests of Poland.

No one is quite sure just how old Bubbie Lisa is, but her eyes said more than words ever could have. Her eyes told stories, a past too frightening to relive, a deep history. And those eyes lit up with joy when surrounded by her grandchildren and great-grandchildren.  
Here are some of my favorite shots from the day as I captured images of Bubbie Lisa and three generations who are all here because of her strength and heroism.


Thanks Z crew for allowing me to glimpse into your lives and capture your story.