Tiny Memory
When I see pictures of my children when they were younger, I can recall everything about that moment. The event, clothing, people involved and even the weather come right back as if it were yesterday. Those memories provide the story of what was going on at that time. Without my commentary, the picture might just be a two dimensional representation of another captured day. The context I provide makes the picture come alive. Looking back and examining these memories gives me tons of good feelings too as I reminisce about past pleasant times. These tiny memories are fascinating to me because they represent more to me than the person in the picture.
Celebration Memory
Bigger events in life get photographed with more formality. Those first milestones in months and first steps and first haircuts mark significant dates in life. Those pictures and videos, even when not taken by professionals, become part of the history of the person involved. Graduations, birthdays and weddings get bigger attention also. We like to put a pin on certain days. Photos in military uniforms or arriving at a new job mark professional changes. Moving days, vacation shots and reunions provide great memories for years in the future.
Just another memory
The pictures that show what life is really like are the everyday ones. The crying child in a tantrum, the prank on a friend, selfies for no good reason or family members sitting around after a big meal all catch us being real. That is where we see the sly smiles, the hidden eyes, the big personality or the reluctant observer. When we are not arranged, we are able to really show off. For years, my family has taken a family picture once or twice a year on a big holiday. They may have started off as a pain to put everyone in place to get the shot, but they will increase in value as the years go by. The staged shots show changes in height and hair as age increases. The goofy shots made at the same time add a whole level to the memories. The smiles and actions show off the silly side of each individual. They will be cherished for decades. The younger ones will just need a little more of the story added.
Your best side
We keep our own memory books inside us. It’s best to take them out and open them from time to time. The story might not change much but the feeling about the time often deepens. Time becomes more precious over time. The photos on your phone should be shared and stored well or at least reviewed to recall your stories. You will want others to remember what was going on that day and why that moment in time was captured. You can get a feeling about who you were and who you have become just by looking at your own face over time. Although many people move away from the lens when it is pointed at them, there is rarely a time later on in life when even that picture is not treated like a treasure. So, pick your best side and take some pictures today and tomorrow too. Create a memory for the future.
What is it about hair styles and clothes that we love to notice in the past? Can you remember to smile big and show off your beautiful face in the next photo taken of you? How do you feel about formal pictures?
