Local Photog Captures 'People of Portsmouth'

Raya Al-Hashmi has struck a chord with her just-launched "People of Portsmouth."

Al-Hashmi, a photojournalist who graduated from the University of New Hampshire last year, started "People of Portsmouth" Jan. 12. Modeled after "Humans of New York," it features photos and interviews with everyday citizens. As of Wednesday, her Facebook following has grown to more than 850 fans.

"I have been thinking about how journalism is now and how being an entrepreneur is vital in this profession," she said. ""What I'm doing is nothing groundbreaking ... I am just the channel connecting you and them with a camera, recorder, and an Internet connection."

She said her growing Facebook following "speaks to the desire that we have as humans to know those in our community and be aware of the struggles, achievements, and humor that surrounds us."

In the last few weeks she has chronicled a chef, an engaged couple, a snow shoveler, and people out walking their dogs, among other subjects.

Al-Hashmi has been promoting her project on Tumblr, Instagram, and Twitter.

"I'm still figuring out how to make ("People of Portsmouth") the best it can be," she said.