I’ve been thinking a lot lately about why I love photography. What is it about certain photos that draw me in? Why am I passionate about photographing real life or what I call “slice of life” moments? And the answer is this:
- Story. I love photos that tell a story. A photograph can capture a moment, but the best ones have me guessing what happened the moment before and the moment after.
- Emotion. You know those photos that catch someone mid-laugh or right as a tear drops or when a couple gives each other a knowing glance? Those photos take my breath away.
- Beauty. There is beauty to be found in our every-day lives. That messy bed or the dishes in the sink can be beautiful if looked at from the right angle or under the proper light.
- Connection. We all want to feel like someone “gets” us. Slice of Life photography has a way of connecting each of us. Photography calls attention to what makes each of us unique while celebrating what we have in common. When I see something in a photo that I relate to, I feel more connected to the world around me.
There’s no better place to find Story, Emotion, Beauty, and Connection than in a family. For that reason, I went searching for a family who would allow me to photograph them in their “natural surroundings” not just once, but once a month for an entire year. This project would allow me to explore the ideas I listed above while documenting a family as they navigate through the joys and growing pains of every-day life.
Lucky for me, I found the most amazing family who have graciously invited me into their home and lives. As soon as we met, I could tell that they were the real deal. They are such a sweet, warm family. I’m secretly hoping they’ll adopt me. And they have chickens! CHICKENS!
Below, you will find photos from my January visit. Watch as everyone gets ready to celebrate the daughter, Ellery’s, 10th birthday. This is an ongoing project, so check back every month during 2010 to see what the family is up to.
And with that, I introduce you to Debbie (mom), Tom (dad), Benjamin (son), Ellery (daughter), and Pushkin (super-adorable dog.) The chickens, Bella, Chickita, and Emma, did not make an appearance this time, so you’re just going to have to check back next month!
Thank you to the sweet Seattle family for allowing me to document this special occasion! I’m looking forward to the next 11 months!
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Wow, those photos are just beautiful! What kind of camera are you using? I can’t wait to see much more from you!
Greetings from Munich in Germany.
@Yvonne: I shoot with a Nikon D40 SLR. Thanks for stopping by! I love that the internet can bring people from across the world together!
we’re the parents and grands and we like what you have done! We look forward to each month
@Tam: I’m so glad you like the photos! You have such a sweet family. I hope the photos do them justice.
These are really beautiful Darrah. I love the black and white (close to sepia?) treatment, too. I look forward to seeing more in this series.
Gorgeous photos. And of family! What could be better? I’ve been wondering a lot lately about why I love the things I love. I haven’t come up with an answer yet…
@Heather and @Carolyn Thank you! Thank you!
This is such a neat project and I’m looking forward to seeing them over the next 11 months! I’m sure they are going to love this record of the year that you are creating for them. Beautiful treatment too!
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These are absolutely beautiful photos Darrah! I can’t wait to see more. I love the emotion and love that you can see in these photos. Congrats!
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Love the pictures! I know this family, and you’ve truly captured their spirit. I especially like the one of the sibs, and of mom looking thoughtful in the kitchen. Great!