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Through the lens of life: Exploring why photos are invaluable

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12 reasons we should take photos to document our lives:

This week we have been navigating the journey of loosing our beloved dog, Copper. Yesterday I spent time savoring old family photos. I find it nostalgic and even therapeutic. After several hours, I was heartbroken to not find any photos of us together.

While I take a break from searching, I thought I’d share my thoughts on the blog about why photos matter. I believe photographs capture the moments, emotions, and stories that shape and connect us.

cockapoo dog sleeping on Persian rug

1. Preserving Memories

Photographs capture moments and events that can fade from memory over time. Looking back at these images helps us relive experiences and remember details that might otherwise be forgotten.

2. Sharing Stories

Photos enable us to share our stories and experiences with others. They provide a visual way to communicate our lives, adventures, and milestones to friends, family, and future generations.

Laura and Paul Mares, wedding
Three Siblings interacting on a path in a local park near Pittsburgh, PA

3. Emotional Connection

Photos evoke emotions and feelings associated with specific moments. They can transport us back in time and allow us to experience the emotions of a particular event all over again.

4. Marking Milestones

Life is filled with milestones, big and small. Photos document these significant events, from graduations and weddings to the first steps of a child.

cap and gown senior photos, Pittsburgh
inside chapel on Isle of Iona, Scotland

5. Self-Reflection

Looking at photos from the past allows us to reflect on our personal growth and journey. We can see how we’ve changed, how we’ve overcome challenges, and how we’ve evolved over time.

6. Cultural and Historical Record

Photographs provide a visual record of the culture, fashion, technology, and society of a particular time. They offer insights into how things have changed over the years.

Laura Mares at Castle Fraser in Scotland
A grandma with her grandkids drinking milkshakes at Pittsburgh's Milkshake Factory

7. Connecting Generations

Photos allow different generations to connect and understand each other’s experiences. Sharing photos from the past with younger family members can bridge gaps and foster understanding.

8. Nostalgia and Comfort

Old photos have a way of bringing comfort and nostalgia. They remind us of happy times, loved ones, and experiences that have shaped us.

Enjoying Mary's Milk Bar ice cream in Edinburgh, Scotland
Paul Mares visiting Prague

9. Creativity and Expression

Photography is a creative outlet that allows us to express our unique perspectives and artistic vision. It’s a way to tell stories and convey emotions through imagery.

10. Building Relationships

Capturing moments with loved ones strengthens relationships. Looking through photo albums or digital galleries together can create meaningful bonding experiences.

girl in a poppy field at sunset
mares family on the coast of Maine

11. Gratitude

Reviewing photos can remind us of the good times and the blessings we’ve experienced, fostering a sense of gratitude for the positive aspects of our lives.

12. Legacy Building

Photographs create a visual legacy that can be passed down to future generations. They offer insights into who we were and the life we lived.

mares family in Copenhagen. photo by big wig photography

In essence, taking photos to document life allows us to capture moments in time, create a visual narrative that documents our story, and leave behind a legacy that reflects our experiences, emotions, and connections.

Ready to document your story?

If you’d like to work together to create beautiful images that you can treasure for a lifetime, please get in touch!

Laura

Hi, I'm Laura Mares! I'm thankful to be a wife, mother and Pittsburgh lifestyle photographer. I photograph because I believe that life is simply beautiful and every person has a story worth telling. I'd love to tell yours.

This Post Has 4 Comments

  1. Nancy Booth

    What a wonderful blog.

    1. Laura

      I’m happy to hear it. Thanks so much!

  2. Stephanie Appelt

    I love this articulation of why photos are important!! It motivates me to be more mindful and intentional to get regular photos of the beautiful experiences of life. It is well worth it as I look back, share, and remember.

    1. Laura

      I’m glad my thoughts resonated with you. Your appreciation means a lot to me. Thank you!

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