Family Matters

SYDNEY: Throughout August, the Surry Hills Library will be transformed by photojournalist Isabella Moore’s uplifting images of same-sex families, writes Garrett Bithell. 

“I learnt about the importance of a loving family – how incredible it is to have two loving parents that care for you by your side. I also realised that love really does reside above all.”

So says Sydney-based photojournalist Isabella Moore, whose images of same-sex parents and their children are being exhibited at the Surry Hills library through August. “The idea came to me simply because I wanted to see beautiful images of same-sex parents,” she tells SX. “I wanted to create images that would give an insight into not only the lives of these loving parents, but the normality of it. I felt there was hardly any mainstream media or exposure, and I wanted the photos to project a strong sense of community and aid the passing of equal marriage laws.”

All Moore’s photographs were taken in the families’ homes and are imbued with an affecting naturalism. “I had to think about many factors,” she says. “My guiding principle was that I wanted it to seem like I wasn't there, and make the images as natural and effortless as possible. I think by converting them to black and white emphasises the moment at hand and causes less distraction for the eyes by highlighting the emotion and the simplicity that breeds through the tones of the picture.”

Moore photographed the families for up to two years. “The beauty of photographing the families multiple times was that I was able to photograph them at separate events and important times in their lives,” she tells. “I tried to work with them rhythmically and in tune with what was happening in their lives. That's why there was no real rush to get it finished in time. I just knew when the set was complete.”

Isabella Moore’s Rainbow Parents in Australia will be exhibited at the Surry Hills Library throughout August, followed by an exhibition at Customs House in June 2013.