6 and 7 out of 100 - Photos as Family History

6 and 7 - those are my numbers. Years ago my parents separated our family photos and created albums for my sister, my brother and I. They are photos of our childhood. I did a little experiment this morning and looked through to see how many photos I had of myself with my parents. Out of the entire album of around 100 photos, I found 6 photos of me and my mom and 7 with my dad and I. There were none (in my album at least) of all 5 of us and only one of both my parents and I. My dad took a good amount of photos - we are lucky that we have our family history in photos at all. But like most parents when photographing our families, the kids are the focus. Especially now, we take so many photos of our kids as babies, toddlers, and then slowly as they age it becomes less and less and with it goes the opportunity to be part of that documented history with our kids.

I remember one year when I was around 8 or 9 we had a Sears portrait done as a family. That was the only time we had a professional photo taken of the 5 of us. It was a big deal at the time. It currently hangs in my parents basement and it's the source of much laughter and teasing as my siblings and I point the finger at who had the worst 80s hair and outfit. While I like that photo for that reason alone, it doesn't feel like how I remember our childhood.

It makes me think about what it would have been like if at the time we had someone come into our home and our lives to capture the 5 of us with a photo session. The details of our day, the interactions, our little home, what that place and time felt like.

I think my own kids would have loved to see that. To see with their own eyes how my life was, how their grandparents were and what it felt like to grow up in my family's home. That green shag carpet in our basement or the little garden of lily of the valley we had in our little yard.

I think about this idea of photos as family history when I take photos for clients because the photos we take aren't just for us right now but for our kids and for their kids later in life.

Don't wait to preserve your family's history and don't forget to be a part of it. My mom reminds me of this every time she sees me taking photos of my kids - she wrestles me for my camera so that I can be in the frame too. I resist at first but then realize she's right, I want my kids to see me too. Sometimes I remember this on my own and attempt to get a photo of me with the kids. Often this is the result but I love it cause this is who they are - funny, silly, and hamming it up so that I get frustrated and stop taking photos and play with them instead.

Interested in booking a session with me? I'd love to hear from you, get in touch by clicking below.
Ottawa photographer - Melanie Mathieu

A Client's Perspective

Last week I posted a family photo session which gives you an idea of what a typical session looks like. This week I wanted to follow up with a description of what a typical session “feels” like straight from the client’s perspective. For those thinking about booking a session and not quite sure what to expect, here is one client’s thoughts on their family documentary photo session. 

1. Before booking a session with me, did you have any hesitations about the documentary type approach? If so, could you please explain. 


I was very excited about the documentary approach to photographing my family. Those everyday candid moments are what we always remember and say "ahhh if I only had a pic of that!" . The only hesitation I had was a worry that my kids would be shy and not act natural. 

2. In your own words, how would you describe the documentary style approach to photography and how did it feel to participate in this type of photo session?  

The documentary style of photography to me is what is most beautiful about photography. It allows us to capture those little moments in life. The memories that make us smile and allow us to relive that moment every time we look at the photos. The impact of a photo that captures emotion is so much more meaningful then a posed portrait. I had a wonderful time participating and would not only recommend it to anyone but would never have family photos done any other way.

3. What were you most excited about for the photo session? 

I was most excited at the opportunity to be involved in what my family was doing while being photographed and also be included in the photos as I am usually the one that is behind the camera. 

4. Now that you have seen your gallery of images from the photo session, how do you feel about the hesitations you mentioned in #1?

The photos are beyond what I could have expected. They captured my family so beautifully! They are truly stunning in quality and I love that my kids just went about their day being goofy and enjoying a nice Saturday morning. Your sunshine personality and infectious laugh made everyone at ease and it felt as though we just had a good friend over hanging out. 

5. What advice would you give, or what would you tell someone thinking about a documentary photo session for their family?

Anyone who decides to take this approach to family photos will never be disappointed. You are amazingly talented and it was a joy to have you do this for us. Thank you!!

Morning with D and family

As much as I prepare beforehand, I never know quite what to expect when I meet a new family. That is part of the excitement and the challenge. I walked into the home of the family you will meet below which included: 4 humans, 2 dogs and a cat - each of them with their own distinct personalities. I was the lucky one who got to see how all the pieces fit together so beautifully. 

I was especially nervous knowing that the mom is an awesome photographer and when I saw her amazing photos of the kids hanging in their home, I knew I had to make this one special. My one advantage: the story this time would include her.

Thank you for letting me share your life for a few hours and trusting me to tell you story. 

 

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Dads need pictures too

Men in particular tend to be reluctant to have their picture taken. By planning a photo session that centres around an activity, the "I don't know what I'm supposed to be doing" uncomfortableness tends to fall away. It gives everyone a purpose. The activity should be something that you usually do so that it is meaningful, but it can be a very simple routine: making breakfast, playing a game, sitting around the campfire, fixing things, reading. 

It doesn't have to be awkward and forced. I promise. 5 photos that prove my point:

Your family will thank you for taking the time to get in the picture with your family. 

Contact me for details on booking a session.