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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I often start with an idea.
A light, a set, a feeling I imagine could work.

But the real session begins when you walk in.
When we connect, when I listen, when I understand what you need, not just what I planned.

That is where everything shifts.

A portrait session isn’t about fitting you into my vision.
It’s about creating something together, something that feels true to you.

Would you prefer to be guided, or to co-create your session?
This photo is from last year.

We look different now. Older, wiser, with shorter hair. We’re in different countries. Life has thrown its complications at us, the kind that don’t get shared on social media. And a photo like this is not possible right now.

So I’m holding on to this one until better days come.

I remember how hard it was to take it. So many bad ones, so much frustration. Me going back and forth from the camera. And then this. The last one. The real one. Laughter out of frustration. Boom.

This Mother’s Day, I’m not thinking about breakfast in bed or bouquets. That’s for the Instagram show.

I’m thinking about the women who wish they still had their mum. The ones who wish they were one. The ones holding everything together while the world posts its perfect mum life, and we all know it’s not real. The ones who are tired, exhausted, overwhelmed, desperate for a break, but with a heart full of love, hanging onto every little moment of joy.

You don’t have to have the perfect day to be a good mother.

Today is about acknowledging us, exactly as we are.

Happy Mother’s Day 🤍
What’s the main message of Milk Tales?

This was my answer on my very first podcast back in July, before the book even launched. And now, after being featured in Grazia, this message feels more important than ever.

Every story shared helps another mother feel less alone. 

Every conversation breaks the silence a little more.

If you’re struggling with breastfeeding, please know: you deserve to be seen, heard, and supported. Your story matters.

Milk Tales available on Amazon

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VALE@PHOTOGRAPHYBYVALENTINA.COM

07577 978246

LONDON NEWBORN & MATERNITY PHOTOGRAPHER

Based in Richmond, I work with families across London to capture life’s most meaningful milestones through portrait photography.