What is documentary family photography?
Documentary family photography means that a photographer uses a photojournalistic approach in photographing a family. That is the photographer does not intervene with the scenes in front of her camera at all: there is no posing, no directing, no telling you where to stand or what to wear, no shuffling of furniture or other items, and most importantly no telling you to “say cheese”. The photographer simply comes and “documents” your family as you go about your life in an authentic and honest way.
Because documentary family photography is an ‘approach’ and not an ‘aesthetic’, you may find vast differences in style from one documentary photographer to another. A photographer’s style is greatly influenced by who they are as a person and what they are drawn to. I personally am an expert wallflower and quiet observer, with a passion and curiosity for the stories and the history of a family - this shows in my photography. I love photographing the quieter, more subtler moments, the connections between family members and I adore documenting multiple generations of family. I’m also drawn to the little quirks and comedic episodes of life. Other documentary photographers might have different interests and therefore their photographs may have a different ‘style’ or ‘look’. As a mother, I am also acutely aware of the ‘mother’s guilt’ and I want to show you through my photographs that you are beautiful and special and - most importantly - that you are enough just the way you are. Because of these differences in styles, it’s important to check out a photographer’s portfolio before you hire them, and speak to them beforehand to make sure you ‘click’.
You might have also heard the terms ‘lifestyle photography’ and ‘portraiture’. These are different genres of photography. Lifestyle photography can often look like documentary family photography, in that the moments captured look candid and casual. But lifestyle sessions are directed by the photographer, usually through prompts and loose posing. Lifestyle photographers also generally advise their clients on wardrobe and session location. Portraiture often takes place in a studio where the photographer poses the subject and often uses artificial lighting to create a beautiful, crafted image. It ultimately comes down to what images you’d like to have and what approach you’re comfortable with.
Do you have any questions about documentary family photography? Please reach out. I love to have a chat!