Even an individual portrait session can be a growth catalyst. An adept photographer can reveal hidden or latent facets of the subject. This can be as simple as someone who believed they were unattractive, or didn't photograph well, being positively surprised when they see their images. A family photo session might encompass family members experiencing interpersonal conflict. Traditional photography might inadvertently exacerbate this dynamic as some individuals find being photographed stressful. Photographing with the distinct intent to create an extremely good family experience, not just good photos, is using photography as a "healing art."
I've photographed several families where if the photo session were to run its "natural" course, an individual or family subset would be marginalized. A photographer sensitive to family dynamics and the healing potential of photography can structure the session so the family can experience new dynamics within a non threatening environment. This is not insight therapy. The photographer would not comment on family dynamics. The "healing" or positive experiences would impact the family via the experience itself. The photographer attempting to reinforce the positive experience via his insightful comments would only garner resistance and undermine the positive experience. As any adept therapist (and photographer) knows, "what's resisted persists." The wise therapist and photographer accept whatever dynamics the family or system presents, and then gracefully leads them to new experiences.
ohn Zeuli
John Zeuli Photography
Savannah, GA
912-655-3328
Compelling, heartfelt images.