Norm and the Jeremy Wilson Foundation teamed up in 2020 to create a series of artist portraits. JWF began using Norm’s images to promote its mission of providing health care services to musicians in need.

One thing led to the next, and the project became an important part of Norm’s life as a photographer.

The volunteer project for JWF has become an ongoing effort to create studio-quality black and white images, documenting the scope of Portland’s music scene—ultimately leading to the creation of Norm’s BECKER CANYON STUDIO.

Norm has devoted more hours than he can count to JWF and the artists who step into his studio. By the end of 2024, he had photographed almost 400 people, including musicians, venue owners, writers, publicists, recording engineers, and more.

Everyone wins. JWF benefits from a steady stream of fresh portraits to help promote its mission. Participating artists receive a collection of images they may use to advance their careers. And Norm gets to collaborate with creative people while contributing to the vitality of the region’s music scene.

In the summer of 2024, Oregon Music News published a story about the project. (read here)

Norm’s relationship with JWF extends beyond his studio. He also photographs The Next Waltz, the foundation’s annual fundraiser.