Family Photographs

I finally made my purchase of Maureen Taylor's "Uncovering Your Ancestry through Family Photographs." I have been wanting to get this book for some time. After doing the post regarding our top ten books in our genealogy library, I was even more adamant to make this purchase.

I have read almost half of the book and am finding it extremely interesting. I wish I had some of the old daguerreotypes and tin types of my family members, however at this point all I can do is keep wishing one may fall in my lap unexpectedly.

Learning to date and place family photos is a science. What type of paper was used for the photo, how it may be encased, clothing, hairstyles, and possible photographers imprints are all clues to help you uncover the information you are looking for. There are many clues in this book to assist you with your photograph.

The history of photography is related in this book, including when color photography came into play. The photos alone in the book are amazing.

I was fortunate enough to hear Maureen Taylor speak last year. She drew me into photography like never before. I have always enjoyed taking photos. I have never taken real photography classes, so I am just the average joe, who snaps a shot here and there. I LOVE looking at photos and always have. My interest has been majorly amplified however in "reading" old photos.

My photo collection doesn't included many extremely old photos. As I go through my scanning process of these photos, I notice I take longer with the process as I find myself analyzing every photo. I feel like running down to an antique store or flea market or somewhere, just to buy some old photos! Buy them to share, find rightful homes for, and analyze.

I highly recommend this book and if the opportunity arises for you, attend a Maureen Taylor presentation. Trust me, you will not regret it. I was most impressed with her gloves, presentation, and knowledge of photographs!

Thanks for stopping by!

Wishing you success in all of your genealogy treasure hunts!

Msteri

Comments

  1. Msteri,
    I second everything you say about Maureen Taylor, Photo Detective. Maureen has combined her knowledge of history, photography and genealogy into a whole new way to approach family research. The California Genealogical Society was honored to have Maureen present four talks at an all-day 110th Anniversary Celebration last February. Everyone came away singing her praises.

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  2. Hi Kathryn,
    Believe it or not, that is where I saw her, and she was awesome! The California Genealogical Society did a fantastic job on this! I enjoyed the presentation and day very much! I must have seen you also, but didn't have a clue as to who you were. :-) Thank you so much for leaving your wonderful comment!

    Msteri

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