Artists have been using their children as models and muses for eons.

For example the Dutch Master, Johannes Vermeer, is thought to have used his daughter as the models for many of his famous painting including the masterpiece “Girl with a Pearl Earring” whereas Sally Mann used her children Emmett, Jessie and Virginia for her series of memorable (and controversial) photographs.

Self-taught Australian photographer, Bill Gekas, has done both and used his five-year-old daughter as his model in a series of photos which echos the painting of the Old Masters.

His use of lighting is striking, but what really impresses the most about these photos is how comfortable his daughter/model appears to be inhabiting these various characters.

These photographs are inspiring to me both as a mother and a keen hobby photographer. A great picture vs. a good one is not only dependent on getting the lighting just right and other technical aspect but in the case of photographing people, it often has a lot to do with the relationship between the photographer and the model.

When both are relaxed and enthusiastic about a project, it nearly always results in better finished product.

Check out Gekas’ work here:

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Editor: Catherine Monkman

Photos: Bill Gekas/imgur