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In the field of early professional photography, the real essence of family photography was overlooked. Back in those days, photographers were not aware how to motivate their subjects, while family subjects lacked the drive to participate during sessions. Family stills of centuries ago were often stiff images where the subjects are literally strapped in their chairs in order for them not to move, captured by large format cameras, limited lighting and slow film. The resulting photos are too formal and stiff, that they lack emotional value and appeal.

It should be taken into account that just like storytelling, photos are strong indication of the ties of each family member, but more often than not past family photography failed to show this. However, the changes in technology have also brought about changes in behavior. As more and more people gain access to cameras and become familiar with its technicalities, the process of photography also became less intimidating, which in turn changes the emotional content of family photos. Meaning, family members are now accustomed to posing at their own liberty during photo shoots.

Modern family photography has strayed from the stiff and formal effects of past photos that were often shoot inside boring studios. Nowadays, more and more family groups are inclined to having their photos taken at locations that have special meanings to them. The photo shoot could take place inside their bedroom, their favorite vacation place, or together with their pets or prized possessions, which clearly manifest their love for family bonding time. Nonetheless, while subjects of early photos were often posed and required to look straight at the camera, modern snapshots permit the family to engage in an ongoing activity, not necessarily staring at the camera.

Actually, there are three principal reasons why parents often commission a family portraiture: for pride, documentation of family growth and most importantly to remember things not only the faces but especially and laughter and fun during the moment. Photographing children, for instance, has become a trend for parents as capturing their little angel's actuation during his or her early years is a priceless memory of a time that can never be repeated in any manner, shape or form. Children photos are more than just historical records of their growth, they are also universal truths that speak of their innocence that would be lost once they are exposed to the outside world.

The same thing could be said with teen photos often commissioned during high school graduations, which is a fundamental changing time for the whole family because on one hand it is that time when parents are so proud of their daughter's or son's academic accomplishment and maturity, and on the other end is the realization of how their child grew up so fast. From that point on, family gatherings become less frequent, so the time spent together during family occasions become more special. Regardless if the occasion is a wedding, anniversary or christening, the fact that the family is whole again is already enough reason to capture the moments that may not happen again for a long period. Family photos frame-capture the most important events and parts in our lives that serves as our daily reminders of why we work, love and live.

Today, family portraiture, regardless if they are teen photos, children photos or parent photos, is more than just capturing the aesthetics of each family member. It is a means to capture the heart and sole of the family. The subjects must be able to look directly at the camera and speak volumes of their emotions through their eyes, or never look at the camera and speak volumes about themselves through their actions. Fundamentally, family photos should be able to fully represent how a family perceives the world.

Modern family photography could best encompass a family story as it captures a mini-slice of occurrence in one's family life that is often fun to commemorate when the family gathers. For all practical purposes, family portraits serve as informal photo essays similar to teen photos and when photographing children. Family portraiture is a good means to remember not just the moment when the photos were taken but also the laughter and fun that took place when the portrait was snapped.