In defence of the humble print photo
Nov 2024
Written by Kelly Royds
In a world dominated by instant, swipeable, and disappearing photos—where Snapchat, TikTok, and digital galleries rule—the humble printed photo may feel a bit “retro.” But during a recent visit to a residential care home, I was reminded of the unique role physical photos play, especially for young people who are piecing together their stories and identities.
On a wall in the office, photo after photo captured the faces, milestones, and memories of past and present young people and youth workers, creating a visual timeline of connection and shared moments.
What struck me most was the way these photos sparked reflection and conversation. In this space, young people shared thoughts unprompted, reflecting on workers, friends, and images of themselves. Some memories were joyful; one young person pointed to a worker with pride, calling them “cool.” Another shared their frustration about a worker they felt “doesn’t like me.” Sensing the hurt or anger behind these words, another young person jumped in, saying, “It’s not that she doesn’t like you; she’s just like that, a bit tough and strong.”
Conversations like these—where young people reflect on and reinterpret their experiences together through these images—highlight how printed photos can create a shared reference point for connection and understanding. The images do more than capture memories; they can make a space for young people to share, process and support one another. They are also an invitation for newcomers, whether a new worker, young person or a visitor like me, to get a sense of the home and relationships they are stepping into.
For young people who have experienced significant stress and trauma, photos in shared spaces can serve as anchors, extending positive interactions into long-term memory. They offer grounding moments for young people’s memories and a pathway for future connections.
If you’re not ready to give up on the humble printed photo, here are a few ideas you could try with the young people you’re supporting:
- Create and curate a photo wall together: It doesn’t have to be fancy- a few photos of everyday moments, achievements, or group activities. Keep it casual, let young people contribute, and see what conversations arise.
- Capture what matters: Invite young people to take photos of places, items, or moments that matter to them around the home. You could use a simple Polaroid camera for immediate prints.
- Celebrate connections: Suggest taking photos with people they feel connected to—whether friends, workers, or mentors. These images can become visual reminders of their supportive relationships, strengthening their sense of belonging.
- Use photos as conversation starters: When there’s a quiet moment, invite young people to share a memory from one of the photos.
- Be prepared for unexpected emotions: Not every photo will bring up happy memories, and that’s okay. Allow young people space to feel what they need to feel.
With any of these activities, handling photo-taking and displays with sensitivity is essential. Always seek consent and ensure young people have choice and control over their photos. Photos can be symbolic and non-personal and should be easily removable or relocated. In fact, photo displays can—and should—be flexible and dynamic, not static or rigid. This flexibility allows young people to feel safe, respected, and genuinely involved in how their stories are shared.
So, if you’re holding onto printed photos, know that they’re more than relics of the past—they’re real ways for young people to explore, express, and connect. And sometimes, the simplest tools make the biggest impact.
