My "Why"

Why?

     Let me start by introducing myself since this is my first "official" blog. For those that don't know me, my name is January. (No, I wasn't born in January, I was actually due in November. But that's a another story for another day.) I am a wife, mother, daughter, sister, best friend, God-mother, niece, granddaughter and some would say "a hot mess" at times. I come from a small town and a tight-knit-family. I love photography, genealogy and learning about the past. (I also have other interests and hobbies, but that's another blog or two later.) 

     I bring up the genealogy because this is part of my "why". My paternal grandmother started a book years ago that I have since taken over filling in missing parts. I have a picture of my great-great-great-great grandparents, not many people I know can say that. 

John & Sarah Brown circa 1860

     If you can't tell by the picture, they weren't wealthy. The majority of my ancestors were farmers or potters, while a few were shoe or furniture makers. My ancestors understood the importance of having their picture taken to document their life and they saved up so they could. Even if it was just once in their life, they knew the importance of it. They wanted to leave their mark. They saw the value in preserving their legacy so they could be remembered by their great-great-great-great granddaughter over 100 years later. (I'm just that important ;) 

     I have spent the last several months pondering how I wanted to label my business, and what message I want to send. Why do I want to be a photographer so badly? What difference can I make? How can I stand out in a saturated market? Why did God give me this desire for so long? I always wanted to be a photographer but have had a difficult time answering the questions above.
    Well, at 38 years old, I finally have my answer: I want to be a visual story teller through pictures. Everyone has stories they want to tell. Just like my ancestors, I value and understand the importance of photography. I want to make sure that everyone has photos of themselves that they can leave behind as a representation of who the were for future generations. I want to help them tell their stories.

My grandfather (child), his father, brother and family friend.

     It's a simple picture: four guys with stringed instruments. Though as simple as it is, it tells a story. I never knew my grandfather as he died when my Dad was 14, but it's through pictures and the stories that they tell that help me feel connected to my heritage.

When was the last time your family had their story told with pictures?
What story do you want to tell through imagery?