Illustration by EmilyAnn Frances May (as AnnFrances), using NightCafé
Every photograph in a family tree is more than just an image—it is a preserved moment in the life of a beloved ancestor, a key that unlocks connections between past and present. These photos serve as bridges, allowing family members to find one another, to share memories, and to deepen their understanding of their roots.
To facilitate these connections, a small watermark containing my email address is placed on family tree photos. This watermark ensures that those who seek family ties can reach out directly, fostering authentic communication between those who are searching for their shared history.
When a watermark is removed, something vital is lost—not just the mark itself, but the opportunity for real connection. The person altering or misappropriating these photos, intentionally or not, enters a space where they have no understanding of the cultural, ethnic, or historical significance behind these images. In doing so, they disrupt the very relationships that these photographs were meant to nurture.
While the intention behind such alterations may seem well-meaning, they often stem from an unrecognized privilege—access to specialized software, the ability to afford genealogy subscriptions, and the time required to modify images. These resources are not universally available, and their misuse inadvertently places barriers between those seeking family and the living descendants they hope to find.
Every family story deserves to be told with integrity, and every image should honor the lineage it represents. Let’s preserve ancestral photographs with care and respect, ensuring that they remain keys to connection rather than objects of alteration.
Entering the Byzantine Gate 