FINAL BRIEF

Project Theme

Family Photography and the Importance of Archiving in Vietnamese Culture

Specialist Issues

  • Media: Photography

  • Formats: Visual Research Report

  • Techniques and tools: Film & Digital Camera, Image Editing Software, Lighting Tools

  • Possible outcomes: A1 size Zine (?)

Specialist Research

  • Family Photography

  • Photography History

  • Archiving Images Methods

  • The transition of analog to digital Photography

  • Editorial Design

Design Problem

In today's digital age, the widespread accessibility of photography through smartphones has transformed how families capture and share visual memories. While this convenience allows for instant documentation, it has also led to a decline in traditional archiving practices, such as printing photographs and creating family albums. As a result, many people may overlook the cultural and emotional significance of physical family images, risking the loss of cherished memories to device failures or digital neglect. This shift raises critical questions about how different demographic groups in Vietnam perceive the value of family photography and the need for sustainable archiving practices that honor familial histories amidst changing technological landscapes.

Goals & Objective

  • To explore the historical development and cultural significance of family photography within Vietnamese families.

  • To analyze contemporary trends in family photography and archiving practices among younger generations.

  • To assess the impact of digital technology on traditional archiving methods and the perceived value of physical versus digital photographs.

Rationale

This project explores the evolving significance of family photography in Vietnamese culture, particularly in light of the shift from traditional archiving practices to digital formats. By examining how these changes impact familial bonds and cultural identity, the research aims to highlight the importance of sustainable preservation methods that honor and protect family histories in an increasingly digital world.

Contextual Issues

In contemporary Vietnamese society, the accessibility and convenience of digital photography have transformed how families engage with and preserve visual memories. With smartphones making photography instantly accessible, traditional practices such as printing and creating family albums are increasingly neglected, leading to a diminished sense of reverence for family photos as cherished heirlooms. This shift not only impacts perceptions of memory value over time but also raises concerns about cultural identity and continuity within families.


As family images increasingly reside in digital formats—often unprinted and unarchived—there is a significant risk of these memories being lost due to device failures or becoming overlooked in an overwhelming digital landscape. For instance, studies indicate that less than 20% of digital photographs are ever printed, highlighting a concerning trend towards ephemeral memory preservation.This context underscores the urgent need for sustainable archiving practices that honor family histories while adapting to modern technological realities. By examining these dynamics within Vietnamese culture—where familial ties are deeply rooted in traditions and values—the project aims to address the potential cultural and personal losses associated with neglecting image preservation.

Target Audience

Young generation, especially Gen Z

Demographics

  • Age: Young people, mostly Gen Z, from the age of 18 - 35

  • Gender: All

  • Location: Urban areas in Vietnam

  • Income Level: All

  • Occupation: All

  • Technology Usage: Active users of smartphones, digital devices, and social media platforms

  • Media Consumption: Interest in digital content, social media sharing and online engagement but limited knowledge to traditional photography or archiving methods

  • Persona: This young group represents a dynamic, creative, and connected generation, yet they may not be familiar with traditional methods of preserving family memories. They are seeking new ways to connect with their family culture and heritage in the digital age.

Challenges

Young adults, immersed in digital convenience, often overlook the long-term importance of memory preservation. They take countless photos but rarely engage in intentional archiving, whether digitally or physically. This disconnect poses the risk of losing meaningful family memories over time, as images remain scattered across devices and social media platforms without a lasting preservation method.


Since many of these young adults will eventually form families, they may find a renewed appreciation for preserving memories later in life—but by then, critical family moments may already be lost or inaccessible. This project can bridge that gap, encouraging proactive archiving habits before these life changes occur.

ABSTRACT OF ARCHIVING IN FAMILY PHOTOGRAPHY

In family photography, archiving can be defined as the intentional and organized practice of collecting, preserving, and cataloging photographs and related documentation that reflect the experiences, relationships, and histories of family members. This process involves selecting meaningful images, ensuring their proper storage—both physical and digital—and providing context through descriptions or narratives that enhance the understanding of the family's journey over time. Archiving in this context not only safeguards personal and cultural memories but also fosters connections between past and present, allowing families to share their stories with future generations.

Research Question 01: Past

How have historical practices of family photography developed in Vietnamese culture, and what roles have they played in familial and cultural identity?

Research areas:

  • The role of photography in family bonds

  • History & philosophy of photography as an archive

  • Traditional practices and rituals in family photography in Vietnam

Method: Secondary Research (80%), Primary Research (20%)

Research Question 02: Present

How do attitudes toward family photography differ between generations in Vietnam, particularly regarding the significance of physical versus digital archiving in contemporary society?

Research areas:

  • Current trends in family photography & archiving

  • Impact of the analog-to-digital transition in Vietnam

  • The resurgence of old compact camera and film point and shoot camera

Method: Secondary Research (30%), Primary Research (70%)