Today I’m going to talk a little about the art of family photography. And yes, I consider photographing families an art form. If you google “what is art?” you’ll come up with the definition: The expression or application of human creative skill and imagination, typically in a visual form, producing works to be appreciated primarily for their beauty or emotional powers. So, heck yeah I consider family photography art.
What makes art “good” is another question all together, and one open to interpretation. I understand all about what makes a piece of art, or a photograph, technically good…but what makes it FEEL good? What draws you in? What keeps your gaze and intrigues your soul? To me, it’s about connection. When a piece of art speaks a truth that resonates with its viewer. When something about the piece speaks to a person loudly enough that it stays with them. If a work of art can communicate in a language that is beyond words, that’s when art is REALLY good. At least in my humble opinion.
My approach to the art of family photography
Whenever I am photographing a family, I always ask myself the same question. It’s in the back of my mind as a constant. What will they want to remember? This is the emotional tie. What is it about right now, in this season of life, that they will look back on one day and recall fondly? The rest is about listening. Observing and reflecting. Noticing the intricacies and the details and documenting them as they naturally occur. The biggest part of creating a work of art through imagery is observation. Being attentive to the what connects us all. It’s more about feeling than thinking.
Having an intimate understanding of light and composition is the second part. Think about a work of art that you can’t stop staring at. Your eye moves from one point to the other, dancing across the medium. The more you look at the piece, the more detail you notice, and the deeper you are drawn in.
Want to learn more about how Jess photographs families and edits her imagery? Or to learn how to take your own photography to the next level?Consider a mentoring session. Learn more HERE!
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