Why Family Photos Matter to Me

There’s something about looking back at family photos and being transported to a moment you might have otherwise forgotten. Photos have a way of anchoring us to memories, helping us relive the laughter, love, and even the chaos of life. They connect us to the past, preserve fleeting moments, and give us a window into our own story. 

Photos Help Us Remember

Every winter, I sit down with a collection of my favorite family photos from the past 12 months. I pour through these moments, picking out the best ones to turn into calendars for my family. It’s one of my favorite activities of the year. As I flip through the images, I’m reminded of the places we’ve visited, the people we’ve met, and the laughs we’ve shared. These photos don’t just document life; they unlock vivid memories and feelings, anchoring me to moments that might otherwise fade.

Photos also have the power to surprise us. Have you ever been searching for a specific photo on your phone and ended up lost in a scroll through years of memories? It’s like falling down a rabbit hole of nostalgia. You might stumble across a picture of your kids when they were younger, your wedding day, or even a scanned photo from your childhood. For me, these moments bring instant joy—like my daughter’s chubby cheeks or my son’s bowl haircut. Those images capture their laughter and energy in ways that words never could.

A Family Journey Through Time

A few years ago, my sisters and I met up at my parents’ house to clean out their garage. It was a weekend filled with sorting through old boxes of photos and family memorabilia. For two days, we unearthed decades of memories. There were albums and envelopes filled with snapshots of family vacations, weddings, and everyday moments. And lots of pictures of plants. My dad really liked taking pictures of plants wherever we went. We laughed as we pieced together family stories, remembered relatives who had passed on, and even tried to sort out which cousin belonged to which aunt.

One of the most remarkable discoveries was a box of slide negatives from the 1960s. These slides held photos of my parents in college, after they met, and in the early years of their marriage. As the youngest in the family, I hadn’t heard a lot of these stories before. But the photos gave me a glimpse into their world, helping me understand where I come from and deepening my appreciation for my family.

Family photos can bridge generations, connecting us to the lives and experiences of those who came before us. They are not just keepsakes; they are storytellers, helping us preserve our history and pass it along.

The Beauty of Everyday Life

Photos don’t always have to capture grand milestones to hold value. Some of the most cherished images are the ones that reflect everyday life. My daughters each have their own unique personalities, and one of them has been sassy since birth. The looks she gives me today are the same ones I captured in her baby photos. These images remind me of her consistent spirit and make me smile at how she’s grown while staying true to herself.

As a parent, I’ve come to realize how quickly childhood passes. One moment, you’re chasing a toddler around the living room; the next, you’re watching them drive off to college. Family photos help us hold onto those moments that seem to vanish in the busyness of life. They remind us to slow down and savor the little things—the messy faces, the bedtime stories, and the uncontrollable giggles.

Even beyond family life, photos capture our connections with others. A group photo from a volunteer project or a snapshot from a road trip with friends can transport you back to shared moments of laughter and togetherness. These images remind us of the relationships that enrich our lives, helping us stay connected even when time and distance separate us.

Embracing Imperfection in Photos

When I meet with families for portraits, they often want everything to be perfect. Matching outfits, natural smiles, and flawless hair are the dream. But real life doesn’t always cooperate. Sometimes, a middle schooler is cranky and doesn’t want to be there. Sometimes, a toddler is scared of the stranger with the camera. Other times, a baby misses a nap and spends the entire session crying.

And I love it all. And I take the photo anyway. Because life deserves to be photographed in all its stages—the good, the bad, the messy, and the beautiful. Those imperfect moments often turn out to be the most authentic and meaningful. They capture the reality of family life, showing the love and resilience that bind us together. When you look back at those photos years later, you won’t see the chaos; you’ll see the love.

Why Photos Are for Everyone

You don’t have to be a professional photographer to appreciate the value of photos. All it takes is the willingness to press pause on a moment and capture it. Whether it’s a family portrait, a candid shot, or a quick snapshot of your daily life, every photo tells a story worth remembering. Last week I was making dinner in the kitchen and I turned around to see my wife and son putting together a puzzle on a large table we set up in our front room. I immediately took out my phone and took the picture. Sometimes it’s the un-staged, unplanned moments that make for the best memories.

For me, photography is more than a career. It’s a way to celebrate life and connect with others. I love helping people preserve their memories because I know how much joy they bring—not just in the present but for years to come. Photos have the power to spark conversations, bridge generations, and remind us of things in life that truly matter.

Finding Joy in Small Moments

Photos teach us to find joy in the small moments. A child’s mischievous grin, the golden light of a late afternoon, or the quiet intimacy of a shared glance can all be captured and cherished forever. Photography invites us to slow down and appreciate the beauty in the ordinary—to see the world with fresh eyes and hold onto what matters most.

Why Do Photos Matter to You?

Take a moment to think about your favorite photos. What do they mean to you? Do they remind you of someone special, a place you love, or a moment you never want to forget? I’d love to hear your stories. Share them in the comments or reach out to me directly. And if you’re ready to create new memories to treasure, let’s connect. Together, we can capture the moments that matter most.