In a World of Statistics.
According to a study done by Kodak, the average American family has .9 family portraits created by a professional in their entire life! Wow! Now it's clear why many parents don't realize what a positive effect a professional family portrait can have on every family member. I'm sure you would agree that children growing up in a home that honors the family unit have a distinct advantage over those who don't. It tells them in no uncertain terms how special your family is to you. There is no artwork or painting, regardless of it's value or uniqueness, that can affect a child so profoundly as can a family portrait displayed in a place of honor in the home. It's a statement you make to all the world of what's really most important to you, and your children see this.

It's unfortunate that most families settle for a church directory or a wedding day picture, with typically marginal results, and think it's simply impossible for everyone to look great at exactly the same time. Besides, just getting everyone together at the same time requires super-human effort! I completely understand - sometimes I don't see my high school son for days (though Mary and I always know where he is) he's just so busy!

But on the flip side, I am convinced that there is nothing better a family can do than to invest the time necessary to create a series of family portraits. By "series" I mean that there are 4 essential images that preserve your family legacy:

The first is the image of your family when the children are little. In a child's eyes, mom and dad are Godlike and can leap tall buildings at a single bound. The family is intimate and close, with the kids openly seeking the security of parents laps, reading books together and playing games. The portrait we create is likewise intimate - close together - especially mom and dad, because a child's world hinges on their parents love relationship. Such a memory as this you will keep in your heart forever.

The second is when the kids are pre-teen. This period of time is the most fun of all, as the family explores the world together by camping, boating, hiking, etc. Mom and dad are still pretty smart, but life is big with lots to see and do. This portrait is just plain fun! It could be at the lake, in the orchard, riding bicycles, or any of a thousand activities. As the years pass and you look back at this image, you remember how exciting family life was.

The third is when the oldest graduates from high school. Talk about an emotional time for parents! Soon the kids will be off into the big world to make their mark. Mom and dad seem to have lost their super-human intelligence, since there are obviously so many smarter people in the world now! Yet this family portrait is the most prized of all, because it represents all the years you've invested in your children, all the emotional ups and downs of the high school experience, and the record of passing from childhood into adulthood.

You've probably already guessed the fourth portrait - the extended family. Mom and dad - aka, Grandma and Grandpa - have once again gained the position of having all wisdom and knowledge, as their children heat up the phone with child-raising and life changing questions. What an image of the family legacy is this portrait! Though the people may change as the extended family grows, shrinks, and grows again, this portrait remains the central focus of the parent's home, as all the people you love are surrounding you. Often we re-create this image several times to keep up with family changes.

If you're lucky enough to have these 4 family portraits, they will become your most treasured possessions as they grace your home over the years. There are few possessions more dear, I kid you not. Perhaps your home has grown in valuable over time, and maybe a retirement fund, but no other "thing" you have ever purchased has the honor of being what you would risk your life to save in the event of a fire, save your family portraits.

In the family gallery you'll see images taken at all four of these life stages.

A Chat with Marylin Young, Wenatchee:


Steve, Marylin, Jaylah, Sydnee, Hachito, Zima and Honey

RSP: Why do you choose River Street Photography?

Marylin: We have used River Street since 1999. Michael is a big part of our family tradition.

RSP: Do you find the staff helpful in guiding you through your portrait experience?

Marylin: Yes! As always!

RSP: Does the River Street guarantee make you feel confidant working with us?

Marylin: Actually we never think about the guarantee. We know Michael will make sure our portraits are above and beyond! It's because he cares and is a talented photographer.

RSP: How would you describe your sessions with Michael?

Marylin: We always feel comfortable and relaxed. When Michael says he got a great portrait, we know he did- we've never been disappointed.

RSP: How do you feel when you see your portraits in your home?

Marylin: Year to year Michael has captured the changes and growth of our family. They are a priceless treasure.

RSP: What suggestions would you give to other families about planning their family portrait?

Marylin: Listen to Michael before (the session) with clothing ideas. During the session just relax, he has a great eye for detail - he knows when he's got it!

Check out the Specials page to see what's happening right now!

We invite you to call 509-782-3554 with your questions and to learn how we can provide the next memory of your families legacy.