Photographer Nick Haymes Documents Sons' Lives in New Book

Photographer Nick Haymes has released a new photography book titled 'Chronograph,' which meticulously documents the lives of his two sons, Philipp and Lawrence, from their infancy to young adulthood. The project began in the aftermath of the September 11, 2001, terrorist attacks, an event that profoundly influenced Haymes's perspective on life's brevity and his decision to start a family with his partner, Lina. Haymes states that the "huge historical event" ultimately shaped his relationship with his wife and children on a "micro level," prompting a desire to capture the essence of family life.

'Chronograph' offers an unfiltered chronicle of his sons' growth, capturing a wide spectrum of experiences. The book includes intimate and often mundane details, such as bloody noses, ear cleanings, and the first signs of puberty like armpit hair. It also depicts significant milestones and challenges, including broken arms, the death of beloved pets, and everyday domestic scenes like messy kitchens and birthday parties. Haymes's approach emphasizes capturing the "mundane side of life" with the same significance as major rites of passage, presenting a comprehensive and unvarnished view of childhood and adolescence. The collection spans from the early 2000s to the present day, providing a visual narrative of his sons' entire lives as they transition from "drooling babies into young men."

Haymes's photographic style, as presented in 'Chronograph,' is characterized by its directness and willingness to engage with the unglamorous realities of family life. The book's scope is extensive, covering the entirety of his sons' lives up to their current young adult stage. This long-term commitment to documenting his children's development highlights a dedication to preserving familial memories in their most authentic form. The project serves as a testament to the photographer's artistic vision and his personal journey as a father, offering viewers an intimate glimpse into the evolution of a family over two decades. The book's title, 'Chronograph,' itself suggests a focus on the measurement and recording of time, underscoring the chronological nature of the photographic narrative.