At birth, I was lucky enough to be welcomed by all four of my grandparents, five great-grandparents, and a great-great grandmother.
So many of my childhood memories are centered around these relationships; I treasure the photographs that document this time in my life.
My camera was out in the car, the light was less than ideal, my elder daughter was wound up and running, and as the moment grew slightly chaotic, I thought, “She visits often, I’ll take a picture next time.”
A few days later she passed away. I’ll always regret missing that opportunity.
Now I’m committed to documenting the relationships between my girls and their grandparents. I’ve given up the idea of complete perfection — any image that documents such bonds is priceless.
I keep the camera accessible whenever the grandparents are around. The scene might not be ideal, but I take the picture anyway. Every single frame is a gift. I know people who have experienced similar regrets and I’ve got some ideas on being prepared to capture and keep precious family memories alive in our photographs.
Capture the evolving relationship.
What do your children like to do with their grandparents? Look for the details of the connection and the scene as well — it, too, will definitely change over the years!
Document something you did as a child.
Seeing my daughter having a snack at my grandmother’s table brings back a flood of memories for me.
Photograph your kids in their grandparents’ home.
What do they like to do there and in what settings do they spend time? I bet there’s an object the kids always make a beeline to!
Capture a mutual hobby.
Preparing a family recipe, planting a garden, knitting a hat, and riding a bike are just a handful of fun ideas.
Document the long-distance relationship.
Sometimes the grandparents don’t live nearby but there’s still ways to document their relationship. Do they talk on the phone or Skype or write letters and cards? Photograph that!
Ease grandparents into the camera.
There can be a hesitancy about using a camera around older generations. Unlike children today, they weren’t constantly being documented through photos.
If necessary, get the grandparents on board. Explain the importance of these images to you and your family and that they needn’t do anything other than continue engaging with their grandchildren.
Find a connection with passed grandparents.
If your children’s grandparents are already gone, look for a way to make a symbolic photo of that family connection. My first child was named after my late great-grandmother. Though my daughter didn’t know her, she sleeps every night with a crocheted animal she made.
Did the grandparent like to cook or sew or make scrapbooks? Photograph your child snuggled in a blanket looking at something he or she loved or handmade.
Words & photos by Kristy Dooley
This article first appeared May/June 2015 print issue of Click Magazine. Order print or digital single issues from the Click & Company Store. Or better yet, get a 1-year subscription so you never miss an issue!
