Heirloom Portraits: A Brief History | Washington DC Heirloom Portrait Photography
I first introduced PLUME Heirloom Portraits to my Washington DC portrait studio in 2020 on a bit of a whim after wanting to put my studio photography education to more use, and they have quickly become one of my signature offerings. In fact, they are among my personal favorites as well! I love combining the hallmarks of a PLUME portrait (authenticity, whimsy, connection), with the technical studio lighting skills I learned in photography school and have honed over the years. As these portraits have gained popularity in the area, I thought it would be fun to take a moment and delve into their history and significance, and what sets a PLUME Heirloom Portrait apart from others.
what is an heirloom portrait?
The PLUME Heirloom Portraits is a modern interpretation of traditional vignetted children's portraiture, a specialized form of portrait photography that dates back to the early days of the medium.
The invention of photography in the mid-19th century revolutionized portraiture. However, in those earliest days, it was primarily used to create scientific and representational images. Portraits were extremely formal and rigidly posed to ensure accuracy and sharpness, often requiring subjects to sit still for extended periods of time do to long shutter exposures. Clearly, not the most practical or popular approach when it came to capturing the energy of restless children!
It wasn't until the late 19th and early 20th centuries, with the emergence of the Pictorialist Movement, that photographers began to manipulate images to enhance their artistic impact. This movement prioritized beauty, tonality, and composition over strict realism, giving birth to a new era of photographic expression.
One technique that emerged during this time was vignetting, a centuries-old fine art technique employed by portrait artists. A vignette portrait is characterized by the gradual softening or fading of the edges of an image, eliminating distractions and creating a frame-like effect. This technique is used in painted and photographic portraits to draw attention to the central subject, creating a sense of connection within the composition.
Today, employing this visual storytelling effect evokes a sense of nostalgia and timelessness. A PLUME Heirloom Portrait further complements this effect with intentional lighting and gentle editing resulting in creamy skin tones and sparkling eyes, as well as traditional wardrobe choices to enhance the portrait's aesthetic. Together these elements imbue the portrait with a sense of history, fostering a connection between generations and ensuring it becomes a cherished family heirloom.
While these portraits are having a moment, their timeless appeal goes beyond passing trends. In an era where countless snapshots are captured daily and easily forgotten, these specialty children's portraits provide a refreshing departure from the disposable nature of modern imagery. They encourage us to slow down and appreciate the art of portraiture, celebrating the depth, emotion, and lasting impact that a carefully crafted image can convey.
When you choose a PLUME Heirloom Portrait, you are embracing the artistry and impact of a timeless technique. You recognize the importance of preserving the spirit, charm, and individuality of your child at a specific moment in their journey in an enduring medium.
TLDR: vignette children's portraits have a rich history spanning centuries, capturing the hearts of families throughout time. Their significance lies in their ability to create intimacy, evoke nostalgia, and preserve the fleeting beauty of childhood. Today, these portraits remain popular because they offer a tangible and timeless expression of a fleeting moment of youth. As a children's portrait photographer in Washington, DC, I am honored to embrace this tradition, while giving it my own creative spin, creating portraits that encapsulate the magic and ephemeral nature of childhood, providing treasured memories for years to come.
If you would like to chat with me about an Heirloom Portrait for your child, book a discovery call or send me a note!
PLUME Heirlooms by PLUME Photography are the premier traditional vignette children’s portraits offered in Washington, D.C. PLUME serves Washington DC and the surrounding areas including Alexandria, VA, Chevy Chase, MD, Potomac, MD, and beyond. If you would like to inquire about a session outside of Washington, DC please e-mail Amanda for travel rates and information.