Why is photography important?
Photography is defined as painting with light…but to me it really is a type of magic that brings me so much joy and connection to the world.
I asked my daughter (12) why photography is important, and she said “because it can help you capture your memories so you are able to remember them.” And, this really is the basis of it, photos are a tool to help us remember what we don't want to forget.
But, how exactly does it do that?
Photographs are a documentation of our story
Photos are a unique way of telling our own story, at all different ages, stages, locations, travels, etc. They are what we use to share our story in the easiest way with others.
Births, celebrations, milestones, tragedy:a collection of meaningful moments
Our lives are full of so many big important moments, such as births, weddings, and celebrations…as well as mundane everyday occurrences, feelings, and even tragedy.
Photos help us to See the world from a different perspective
Photography can help us to see the world from a new perspective. We’re able to learn about other individual’s stories…not just what our imagination can build from their words, but what we can actually visualize from photos to learn more about their struggles, culture, and experience and with that learning how our perspectives and lives differ.
Photography Connects us to our past
The printed photograph in particular is such a beautiful time capsule to the past. When a pet or loved one passes away we will utilize photos to connect us to them, and to remember their story from the past. This is never more true than a way to re-connect with one’s ancestors and family members we may have never met, but can see a thread of connection via photography.
Me, Rebecca, Owner of Hunnicutt Photography
Look at this polaroid from October of 1988! I just came across this photo recently while looking through photo albums after a death in the family, and it made my heart so happy to see 9 year old me, with a camera around my neck, smiling from ear to ear…and my dads handwriting on the photo was just the icing on the cake.
Documents our travels
Since the dawn of photography people have been photographing their travels as a way to record and document their experience while exploring the world.
What we would save in case of emergency in our homes
When asked what you would want to save from your home in a fire or natural disaster, photos and videos are the primary item listed as non-replaceable. We’re lucky now that we can archive our photos in the cloud, but nothing is better than a printed photo in an album or on the wall.
Documentary Purposes
Photographs document history, and are used to record scientific discoveries, and record many Important aspects within society and industry.
Photography is an Art
Individuals of varying artistic interests and skill levels can explore and experience photography at all ages (I even teach photography to both kids and adults! You can learn more HERE). Learning to express ones ideas and views through photography can be an amazing skill, and understanding the aspects of photography for children helps to expand their understanding of various art forms.
To support ones business
Photography is utilized in marketing, advertising, and business purposes for entrepreneurs of all sizes. I’m just lucky to have photography be the sole of my business…and I love that I can help support other businesses with photography as well.
Can communicate with others, regardless of spoken language
Art itself can communicate thoughts and ideas to the viewer without shared spoken or written language, and photography is no exception. Photos can bridge cultural, and language divides and communicate themes to any viewer.
Our Legacy
Photos tell the viewer what is important to the photographer, the subject, and even helps each of us see what we value. By hiring a professional photographer you are creating a legacy for your children and family that documents your love, connection, and experiences to treasure for generations. It’s something that you will never forget.
What does photography mean to you?? I’d love to hear in the comments.
If you are interested in photography, and would like to elevate your skills, I offer a course on composition, color theory, and also support photographers with 1:1 photography or business coaching. Also, I co-teach kids photography summer camps as well, because I love to share my joy with photography with others.
