The Psychological Impact of Family Photo Sessions on Intrafamilial Relationships

Citation: Inha Dybchenko, "The Psychological Impact of Family Photo Sessions on Intrafamilial Relationships", Universal Library of Arts and Humanities, Volume 02, Issue 03.

Copyright: This is an open access article distributed under the Creative Commons Attribution License, which permits unrestricted use, distribution, and reproduction in any medium, provided the original work is properly cited.

Abstract

The article examines not so much photography as a static visual object as the psychological effects of the family photo-shoot procedure itself and its influence on the dynamics of intrafamilial relationships. The aim of the study is to clarify and analytically describe the key mental mechanisms through which joint participation in the shooting process strengthens the sense of cohesion and improves the family’s emotional climate. The empirical-theoretical basis includes a synthesis of a systematic review of research in social psychology, art therapy, and the sociology of visual culture, as well as a qualitative analysis of a case study of the author’s photographic approach that integrates artistic and psychological principles. It is shown that the therapeutic potential of a family photo session is realized primarily through two complementary mechanisms: 1) co-construction of a positive family narrative, in which the very process of shooting becomes a significant shared biographical episode and strengthens the experience of we; 2) emotional anchoring, in which tactile and visual stimuli during the shoot (hugs, laughter) form stable associations with feelings of safety and joy, and subsequent viewing of the images reactivates these states. The case study analysis indicates high effectiveness of the method, as evidenced by client retention (70%) and referrals (40%). When organized as an event oriented toward process rather than product, the family photo session serves as an effective tool for strengthening intrafamilial relationships. The findings are intended for family psychologists, art therapy specialists, and professional photographers interested in integrating a psychological component into their practice.

Keywords: Family Photography, Intrafamilial Relationships, Therapeutic Photography, Phototherapy, Emotional Anchoring, Family Narrative, Shared Experiences, Family Cohesion, Family Psychology, Art Therapy.

https://doi.org/10.70315/uloap.ulahu.2025.0203010