Watch Family Portraits

As a documentary film, Family Portraits (2019) explores the history and evolution of skateboarding through the lenses of four professional skateboard photographers: Mike Blabac, J. Grant Brittain, Mike Carroll, and Jason Dill. Together, they share their unique stories and perspectives on how skateboarding has influenced their lives and how they have captured this culture through their work.

The film is a visually stunning tribute that provides genuine insight into the world of skateboarding photography. It highlights the importance of capturing the essence of skateboarding and its subcultures through the decades, dating back to the 1970s when skateboarding was in its infancy.

As each photographer recounts their stories, it's apparent that they are all passionate about two things; their love of skateboarding, and their artistry in capturing its essence. We see them sharing their best works along with their backstories and the moments that led to the capture of some of the most significant moments in skateboarding history. Throughout the documentary, the photographers recount the differences in technology and approach that they had to use at the beginning of their careers as opposed to what is available now.

Apart from their passion and their stories, the depth of their images speaks volumes. The details and the timing of the capture display the formative years of professional skateboarding. The film brings into focus some of the most memorable moments in skateboarding history including the rise of the legendary Bones Brigade in the 1980s and the evolution of skateboarding through the 90s and early 2000s. By watching these moments play out through the eyes of the critically-acclaimed skateboard photographers, one can understand the cultural importance they have played in bringing skateboarding into the mainstream.

Family Portraits also highlights the individual artistry of each photographer. We explore each of their unique approaches to their shot selection, color palettes, and composition, enabling viewers to develop a thorough appreciation of skateboarding photography. Mike Blabac brings modern and contemporary perspectives to the film, while J. Grant Brittain offers nostalgic glimpses of the 80s skateboarding scene. Mike Carroll and Jason Dill even offer interesting commentary on people within the skateboarding industry, such as the late Keith Hufnagel's impact on the culture of skateboarding.

This documentary is rich in visuals that showcase the creativity of each photographer. The directors, The Berrics, are known for their prowess in capturing the culture of skateboarding, and with Family Portraits, they have kept their reputation intact. The Berrics fluidly relate skateboarding photography to art as each photograph is a painting frozen in time. Their use of cinematic techniques along with still photographs adds depth to the documentary, as the moments they capture flicker and come alive without detracting from the substance of the interviews.

In closing, Family Portraits is an incredible homage to skateboarding and skateboarding photography, simultaneously celebrating both young and old as well as the tears and sweat behind each shot. The documentary captures the sentiment and artistry of a culture that has worked to continue evolving throughout the years. It is a fascinating look into the lives and careers of the photographers behind the lenses of the most iconic images in skateboarding history. Regardless of whether or not you are a skateboarder or skateboard enthusiast, this documentary is a must-watch.