Family Portraits we have taken
While the structure of today’s’ family varies from our ancestors, recording it in the form of appreciating photographic art still holds great merit in our society.
Early family portraits were originally created by painters prior to the twentieth century and were symbolic of power and profession. After the invention of the daguerreotype in the mid 1800’s (early photographs produced on a silver or silver covered copper plate) family portraits were somewhat more attainable but still most commonly found in homes of the social elite.
When the process became more financially accessible, people began going to photographic studios where a very dignified and serious atmosphere became the backdrop for many elegant yet stiff portraits. Due to slow film speeds the subjects had to sit extremely still for long periods of time (much like have a portrait painted) and this also caused the tension that we identify in historic photographs. Eventually impressionist painters (such as Van Gogh) altered the way that families were portrayed and it became more common to see creations of the more casual family portrait work it’s way into photographs.
Today’s family composition varies significantly with more awareness on single parents and same sex marriages but the one thing that remains the same is the value placed on family.
Browsing the galleries often sparks an idea for your own portrait creation, so I encourage everyone to do so. Then call our studio and we’ll take it from there.
We, at That Photo Studio, appreciate unique families and are honored each time we are commissioned to design a portrait of significance. Our creations begin with a photography consultation to determine what style of photography is desired, how your portrait is envisioned and details of wardrobe that will achieve this emotion. Sometimes it’s nice to capture your family in a setting that is familiar &/or special to everyone or enjoy the availability of the studio to create something very special with minimal distraction.