Before the invention of photography, a painted, sculpted, or drawn portrait was the only way to record the appearance of someone.
But portraits have always been more than just a record. They have been used to show the power, importance, virtue, beauty, wealth, taste, learning or other qualities of the sitter.
The most obvious and important reason I personally have my portrait taken, is that one day I will not be here. The loved ones left behind will cherish every photograph ever taken of me and more than likely will display photos of our short time together in their homes to share with their families.
Parents are always taking pictures of their children but that means there aren’t any pictures of the entire family together. One day soon, the kids will be grown up and out of the house. Wouldn’t it be nice to have visual memories of times when everything started until they left the safe haven to start a life on their own? Family portraits will remain and tell their stories in the years to come.
These days, we are increasingly viewing our images in a digital form, be it a mobile device, a laptop, or on social media. But does a digital image have the same impact and value as a beautiful framed photograph on your desk or even on your wall?
Exist in photos. Exist in your loved ones’ lives. Today, tomorrow, for years to come.