“In the heart of my BFA thesis project, "Family Matters" lies a simple yet powerful mission: to capture and celebrate the memories of the Mistry family and those closest to me. Using black-and-white documentary-style photography, along with candid portraits and careful archiving, the project aims to preserve and honor the special connections within the family. It's a gentle reminder to everyone, including ourselves, to make time for family, even when life gets crazy. What makes it all the more special is that I’ve used the same old point-and-shoot digital camera that was used to document my childhood, capturing moments big and small.This project began at the start of 2023, and since then, it's been a journey of documenting every aspect of our lives and the people (and pets) who matter most. It's been a labor of love, dedicating a whole year to capturing the essence of my family life. "Family Matters" isn't just about snapping photos; it's about celebrating the beauty in everyday moments. From the ordinary to the extraordinary, I’ve captured it all, embracing the messy, chaotic, and utterly joyful reality of family life. As I look back on this project, I can't help but feel a sense of comfort knowing that the same camera that once captured my childhood memories is now preserving those of my family. It’s as if I am passing down a precious family heirloom, ensuring that our legacy of love and laughter lives on for generations to come. Throughout the shooting and documentation process of "Family Matters," I focused on collecting and creating a series of tangible memories. With each click of the shutter, I captured moments both mundane and monumental, crafting a mosaic of my family's story. From traditional 4x6 prints to intimate Polaroid-sized snapshots, each photo held a piece of our collective history. As the year unfolded, so did the collection, growing richer with every passing moment. Then came the culmination of this endeavor: the creation of a photobook that would serve as the final chapter of this year-long narrative. Narrowing down the 100-plus images into a thoughtful curation was the toughest part of this experience. The photobook became more than just a compilation of pictures; it was a testament to the love, laughter, and shared memories that defined our journey together. ”