Some of my most cherished belongings aren’t expensive, rare, or flashy, they’re photographs of my family. Growing up, my mom and my nanna were constantly taking photos and videos of our family whenever they got the chance. I’ll admit, as a kid, I was often annoyed or embarrassed by it. I didn’t enjoy being in front of the camera and never understood why every moment needed to be captured.
I lost my mom at the very young age of seven. From that moment on, my grandparents stepped in with a level of love and support that I can only describe as life-shaping. They helped my dad raise my two brothers and me, and when my dad passed away in my mid-twenties, they stepped up even more. They were a constant, unwavering source of stability and care during the hardest years of my life. I wouldn’t be the man I am today without them.
They have since passed as well. Now, what’s left are the memories and photographs.
Chris with grandfather and his brothers
Chris with his cousin and brother, circa early 1990s
Those pictures my mom and nanna insisted on taking… those ones I used to roll my eyes at, are now priceless treasures. When I look at them, they bring back vivid memories and emotions I don’t ever want to lose. I think most people would agree that if you could save one thing from a house fire, it would probably be your family photographs.
There’s something truly timeless about a physical photograph. Holding a print in your hands feels different than scrolling past a digital file. Photos end up tucked into wallets, taped to mirrors, saved in purses and wallets. When people feel low, they often turn to pictures and videos of loved ones to reconnect with joy. We open our screens every day to images because they anchor us, remind us, and comfort us.
As a photographer, I take great pride in photographing people. I love creating portraits that aren’t just moody or dramatic, but ones families will cherish, expressions full of happiness and life. The kind of photos grandma would love. Because let’s be honest… grandma always prefers the authentic, huge smiles.
Chris in his Canadian tuxedo, circa early 1990s
Chris surrounded by his siblings