What’s the Value of a Photograph?

Let me ask you this question again: What’s the value of photos for you?

And no, we’re not talking pounds, dollars and cents here; we’re diving into the emotional realm, into how photos make us feel – because, really, that’s what matters most.


I want to raise this question today because it’s world cancer day and unfortunately, cancer has touched the lives of our friends and family, leaving an indelible mark.

Personally, I’ve lost dear ones to this relentless foe; both my grandmas more than two decades ago when I was just a teenager, and my dad encountered Mr. Cancer a few years back. But you know what? Dad faced it head-on, threw a mighty punch, and emerged victorious! His strength and positivity throughout those challenging months of treatment are a testament to the human spirit.

Cancer is a word that makes us feel scared, small and hopeless. But today, there are countless positive stories and ongoing research that prove it can be defeated. Now, back to my original question.

I believe a photo’s value is deeply personal. It’s a reflection of how someone treasures it. Loves it. Holds onto it for dear life.

Think about it – when you lose someone you love, what do you do?

You seek solace in their photos. And if those cherished memories live on your phone, you print them out because you want to feel their presence, to physically hold onto those moments. A photograph becomes a time capsule, a way to relive precious memories, and an avenue to feel closer to someone you hold dear.

Related article: Why Newborn Photography?

photo of mum kissing baby- value of photos

This is my little positive story.

These particular photos hold a story of strength and love. Taken just days before a remarkable mum underwent a spine operation. The baby was 4 months old when I took the photos and while she was pregnant they discovered there was something wrong with her.

They scheduled the shoot urgently, knowing that mobility would be limited for months post-surgery. Why? “So I can look back and remember these very special months that I had with my child and husband,” she shared with me.

The power and value of photos, right?

Gratitude overwhelmed me as I captured this family’s journey, providing them with memories to hold onto during challenging times. “Thanks so much for sending these photos! It’s great to be able to look at them when I’m by myself alone in the hospital… it definitely makes me smile! 🙂

mum and dad hugging and laughing while holding baby - value of photos
mum holding baby and dad looking at then - value of photos

Photos become more than just pixels; they’re tangible memories.

Remembering a particular moment becomes effortless when you have a picture to transport you back in time. Photos are the imprints of our lives, the visual story we pass on to future generations. Whether personal, commercial, or historical, each image we capture has a tale to tell.

So, what’s holding you back from creating these timeless memories with your children?

The photos you take today aren’t just for you; they’re a gift to your children, a window to the past where they’ll see the beauty of their mum, the joy of playing with dad, and the precious moments spent with siblings.

As a London photographer specialising in Newborn photography, my passion lies in capturing the essence of your family. The photos of the baby are the most loved. But the photos with mum and dad and siblings are the most powerful and cherished forever!

You can look at my portfolio to see more of my work and I hope you can see the passion I have for this job and my mission to provide incredible memories through your photos.

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NEWBORN MODEL CALL - Don't miss it and please share it!

I’m looking for a newborn (born after 1st July) to model for a 1:1 training session in my studio on Wednesday 16th July – morning only.

Both parents need to be available at the session and comfortable signing a model release, as the images will be used for portfolio and promotional purposes. (No siblings, pets or extended family on this occasion, it's just baby and parents)

This is a lovely opportunity to enjoy a complimentary professional newborn session (value £290) and receive some beautiful photographs of your new baby.

The session will take place at my cosy studio in Twickenham (SW London), designed to offer a calm and relaxed experience for you and your baby.

If you or someone you know has recently welcomed a little one and might be interested, please DM me or email vale@photographybyvalentina.com – I’d love to share more details with you!

#londonnewbornphotographer #londonmums #londonmumsnetwork #londonnewbornshoot
Not all breastfeeding stories start with ease.

And some carry more than we can see.

This wasn’t just a photoshoot, it was a moment to honour a deeper journey.

One that mixed pain and joy. Loss and healing.

Feeding her baby… and feeding her soul.

The plasters were symbolic. So was the baby’s breath.

But the emotion? That was all her.

And honestly, it stayed with me.

If this speaks to you, know you’re not alone.

We carry so much. And sometimes, we need someone to see it.
 
My book will hold this story and many others like it. 
If it speaks to your heart, save it. Or share it with someone who needs to feel seen. 🤍

#breastfeedingjourney #breastfeedingsupport #breastfeedingproject
Natalie and Sara aren’t just sisters-in-law, they’ve walked side by side through the early days of motherhood, holding space for each other’s struggles and joys.

This session was a reminder that we don’t have to do it alone. In motherhood, as in business. That when stories are shared, healing begins.

That sometimes, the most powerful thing we can offer… is simply to be there.

And that’s the heart of my book: sharing stories, truths and experiences that make us feel less alone.

If you’ve ever felt supported by another mum, tag them below. Let them know they mattered.

And if you’re curious to read more stories like this one… keep your eyes peeled for news about the book release coming very soon!

#sisterhoodinmotherhood #motherhoodunfiltered #breastfeedingjourney #postpartumtruths #storytellingthroughphotography #londonmaternityphotographer
This photo? It’s actually two images merged into one.

The eye you see? Hers.

The reflection? 
A moment of feeding, held in her memory and now in this frame.

It’s not just editing. It’s storytelling.

Inspired by her journey. Created from emotion.

Because photography isn’t just about what you see, it’s about what you feel.

And this? This one feels like truth.
Working from a new spot because staring at the same screen in the same room wasn’t doing me any favours. 

Sometimes all it takes is a shift in perspective (and some cloud therapy)

Do you have a go-to place when your brain needs a reboot?

Drop your favourite focus spot in the comments: your garden? a café? kitchen table? I’m all ears.
Not my first time at the House of Lords… I know, I know. You’re probably thinking “Her again?!” 😅

But I promise, it never gets old.

Today was all about creativity (of course—hello, we’re talking about Adobe!), and how refreshing it is to chat with other small businesses in the creative world.

Huge thanks to the fab @adobeexpress team and @britainsmallbiz for putting together such a great course and for filling the room with so many lovely, inspiring people.

(And yes… I still take photos every single time I go!🙈) 

What’s your favourite ‘pinch me’ work moment so far?

VALE@PHOTOGRAPHYBYVALENTINA.COM

07577 978246

LONDON NEWBORN & MATERNITY PHOTOGRAPHER

BASED NEAR RICHMOND - TWICKENHAM