When a Photo Makes You Wonder What They Will See

Alana sent me this photo and I was mentally transported back to my childhood subdivision. I could see the pavement beneath my bike-pedaling feet on Meinrad Drive so clearly in my head. I remembered the bike ride around the block and those evenings when we would stand at the end of the drive – chatting away with our awesome neighbors. And like her, the impact a photo like this one, which can to spin your mind into a memory nearly forgotten, is one reason I love documentary photography.

I also love and agree with Alana in wondering what they will see later in life looking at this image. Every moment in our lives – even when together – affects each and everyone of us so differently. Especially, as the photographer, when you are an outsider looking in – it will always remain a mystery exactly how your images are seen and felt by those in it. It’s such a cool feeling.

Here’s what Alana had to say about her Iconic Photo:

“I took this image during one of my favorite family sessions to date. The family was taking a walk in their neighborhood, like they do many afternoons. It is a family of boys, so this image represents them as a family and the ‘life of boys’ in general. I love documenting real moments like this; wondering what these brothers will think when they look back on this photo. Will they notice the pink bike their mom bought at a garage sale? Will they miss their dog? Will they be in awe of blonde curls? Will they see their dad, standing beside them? This is why I love documentary photography.”

Camera Data: Nikon D700, 35mm, 1/200 f/3.5 ISO 250

Alana Rasbach