Nick Haymes's new photography book Chronograph documents his sons' entire lives, from the twin towers on fire to verrucas and a homemade hamster coffin. This intimate family album captures both monumental and mundane moments with equal reverence.
The Story Behind Chronograph: A Father's Lens
Haymes began the project after 9/11, realizing life is short. Living in a tiny Manhattan apartment with his wife Lina and sons Philipp and Lawrence, he photographed everything—from broken arms to armpit hair. The cramped space meant no privacy, but also no missed moments.
"Because we lived in this tiny, 800 sq ft apartment in Manhattan, you don't miss a thing," Haymes explains. The book runs from the terrorist attacks to the present day, tracing his sons' growth into young men.
Why Mundane Moments Matter in Family Photography
Haymes captures messy kitchens, ear cleaning, and verrucas alongside birthday parties. This approach challenges traditional family albums that only show happy highlights. By including the unflattering and ordinary, he creates a more honest portrait of family life.
| Aspect | Traditional Family Album | Chronograph Approach |
|---|---|---|
| Focus | Special occasions | Everyday life |
| Emotion | Happy only | Full range |
| Space | Large homes | 800 sq ft apartment |
| Time span | Years | Decades |
Key Takeaways from Chronograph
- Documenting daily life creates a richer family history
- Constraints (small space) can enhance photographic intimacy
- Honesty in photography includes unflattering moments
- Major events like 9/11 can inspire personal projects
Nick Haymes's Photographic Journey
Haymes's work spans documentary and fine art, but Chronograph is his most personal. The book's title suggests time measurement, reflecting how he tracks his sons' development frame by frame.
Readers see arms get broken, pets die, and hairs sprout—all part of growing up. Haymes's running joke with son Lawrence about being "the only parent tha" (truncated) hints at the playful yet candid tone.
Why This Book Resonates
In an age of curated social media, Chronograph offers a refreshingly raw look at parenthood. It reminds us that the verrucas and hamster coffins are as important as birthday cakes.
FAQ
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