How do you photograph families in troubled times

[Nicole]

Nicole submitted a new resource:

(there was a url link here which no longer exists) - How do you photograph families in troubled times

I often get asked how I manage to work with families in difficult times so I've jotted down a few brief notes as my insomnia continues to haunt me, hoping this might help you some day.

Firstly, honesty is always the best approach. Family members will open up to you as much as you open up to them. Listen more and speak less. If they need a hug, hug them. Show them that you really care. If you don't care, you shouldn't be there in the first place. Don't ask searching questions, they will...

(there was a url link here which no longer exists)

 

[Allan Swindles]

Sounds just about right to me. If you don't feel the mood you don't get the shot.

 

[Christopher Walrath]

Some very good thoughts, Nicole. After all, you are inserting yourself into lives that are stressed and any photographer undertaking a project such as this, whether personal or otherwise, should be appreciative of the opportunity. Well said, Nicole. By the by, have you participated in a project such as this or witnessed another photographer doing so? It's just that this article seems like so much more than mere stray thoughts of a shutter deprived insomniac. Just curious. Again, thank you for the article.

 

[Nicole]

Allan and Christopher, thank you. I've been on both sides of this article more than once. My Dead Link Removed may give you a little insight. It's part of who I am and why I do what I do. I wouldn't say I'm shutter deprived, quite the opposite - and most gratefully so. Thank you for your feedback Christopher, I appreciate you taking the time to write.

 

[Christopher Walrath]

You are welcome.