Why Photos Are So Important for Children: The Science of Family Photography

We snap more photos than ever these days - thousands of them, right there on our phones (literally, thousands!). But when was the last time you truly looked at them?

Not just scrolled past them, but actually held a photography in your hands and felt the moment it captured?

As a maternity, newborn and family photographer here in Milton Keynes, I’ve seen first-hand how powerful family photography can be. But it’s not just about creating something pretty to hang on the wall - it’s about connection, belonging, and love.

What's fascinating about the power of family photography is that there's real science behind it, and it goes far deeper than nostalgia.

Family photography has been shown to boost a child’s self-esteem, help them feel secure, and strengthen the bonds between parents and children.

But before I share some of the science behind the importance of family photography, I want to tell you why this is so personal to me.

A Memory That Shaped My “Why”

When I was little, one of my favourite things in the world was visiting my grandma on the weekends. I’d spend hours sitting on her sofa, going through her photo albums. I can still picture those faded pages, the smell of the paper, and her smile while she told stories about my mum as a little girl.

Those afternoons felt like magic to me, like stepping into my family’s history.

But the truth is, I don’t have many photos of me with my mum. Photography wasn’t as accessible then, and she passed away when I was still a child. I often wish I had more pictures to look back on... not just to remember her face, but to feel the way she looked at me, the warmth in her smile, the way she made me feel loved.

That’s a big part of why I do what I do now. I know what it means to have those tangible reminders of love. I see it as a gift we can give our children: proof of belonging, of being loved, of being seen.

For me, photography isn’t just about capturing how people look - it’s about preserving a piece of their family’s story. It’s about the emotions, the atmosphere, and the moments that shape who they are today.

The Importance of Family Photography

We often think of photography as something sentimental - a way to hold onto fleeting moments. But science shows it’s also a powerful tool for child development.

Researchers have found that seeing family photos displayed in the home actually helps children in all kinds of ways, from building self-esteem to feeling more secure and connected.

Psychologists call it a “visual narrative” - basically, a story children tell themselves about where they come from and who they belong to. When they see themselves and their families in photographs, it reinforces that sense of belonging.

It’s not just sweet - it’s powerful!

1. Building Self-Esteem and Identity

Studies have shown that when children grow up seeing their photos displayed around the home, it strengthens their sense of self-worth. It sends a simple but powerful message: You are loved. You belong here.

Dr. David Krauss, one of the early researchers into family photography and child psychology, explained that having family portraits visible in everyday spaces, (like the living room, hallway, or bedroom) reinforces a child’s identity. It reminds them, without words, that they are an important part of a loving unit.

And honestly, I see this all the time in my sessions here in Milton Keynes. The way children light up when they see a photo of themselves printed on an album or hanging on their walls… they’re proud, confident, and full of joy. That’s what photography can do.

2. Creating Emotional Security

Family photos are more than just pictures, they’re emotional anchors.

They provide a sense of continuity and connection, reminding children that no matter what happens in life, they are part of something solid and safe.

For children who may be shy, going through transitions, or even just having a tough day, looking at those photos can offer comfort and reassurance. It’s a quiet reminder that they are loved, seen, and valued.

This is why I encourage families to display their portraits where everyone can see them, not hidden away on a phone or computer, but in the spaces you gather and live together.

3. Strengthening Memory and Family Narrative

Family photographs also play an important role in memory development.

Looking at photos together helps children connect events, emotions, and people.

“Here you were in mummy's tummy”

“Look at you with your baby brother"

“This was your first birthday”

These little conversations build a family story that helps children understand who they are and how they fit into something bigger.

This “narrative building” is an essential part of developing identity and emotional resilience.

4. Emotional Regulation and Comfort

Photography can even help children process emotions. Looking at family photos can act as a form of photo therapy, helping them manage feelings of anxiety, homesickness, or sadness.

For example, a framed photo of the family in a child’s bedroom can be a source of comfort at bedtime or when a parent is away.

It’s a small detail, but has a big impact on a child’s emotional world.

Why Printing Photos Matters

Digital photos are wonderful and convenient, but they don’t have the same impact as printed ones.

Research shows that holding and seeing physical photos engages the senses in a way that helps children process memories and emotions more deeply. It’s a lot like reading a storybook - it helps them process information, build memory, and connect emotionally.

When your photos live on your walls or in an album you can touch, they become part of your family’s story. They’re not hidden away in a phone; they’re lived with.

Printed photos create visible belonging. They quietly say: "This is our family. This is our story."

Turning Memories Into Something You Can Hold

In my work as a newborn and family photographer in Milton Keynes, I love helping families turn their images into something tangible: handcrafted albums, framed wall art, or beautiful keepsake boxes. Not just because they’re beautiful to look at, but because they mean something. They hold your story in a way that scrolling on a phone never can.

These printed pieces become part of your home, part of your children’s environment, and eventually part of their memories.

It's something you can pass down and, years from now, when they look at them, they won’t just see what they looked like - they’ll remember how they felt being part of that family.

The Legacy You’re Creating

Children who grow up surrounded by family photographs are more likely to continue the tradition. They learn, from an early age, that family memories matter - that they’re worth keeping and celebrating.

And one day, they’ll display photos of their own family, passing on that same sense of love, connection, and belonging.

That’s the quiet, powerful legacy of photography.

So if you’re in Milton Keynes, Bedford, Northampton, or nearby, and you’ve been thinking about updating your family photos, maybe this is your sign. Whether it's a new addition, a milestone or your maternity journey, every image you create becomes part of your family's story - one your children and grandchildren will carry with them for life.

One day, these images will mean more than you can imagine right now.

👉 Get in touch here to book your session.