Family Bond Created Through Portraits

Most of the time I share images of my conceptual work. The photography I am known for is colorful, fantasy based and heavily manipulated in Photoshop.

While I love that style of imagery it is not the only type of photography I practice.

Ever since I can remember I've had an interest in the visual arts, but it wasn't until I was 16 that I met a dear friend that introduced me to photography. He shot with black and white film and after playing model for a couple shoots he put the camera in my hands and let me take a picture of him. I will always remember that moment as it has impacted the course of my life since.

Black and white imagery has had an influence on me since, to me the inspiration is less creative and represents more connection and authenticity.

Nowadays I am a single mom to 3 beautiful children with old souls. Sometimes they participate in my conceptual shoots, but I also have an abundance of personal photos, and outtakes from shoots as well.

These in between moments are their childhood. I decided to go through my photo archives and compile a collection of photographs of my children. This time only using Photoshop to convert the images to black and white.

My heart bursts at this collection of images. Black and white photography...portraiture specifically distills the essence of the image, of the soul.

These images feel more timeless, classic and raw than any of my other work. I'd love to know your thoughts on black and white photography. What kind of memories does it invoke for you.

More info: vanessawildempress.wixsite.com