V - Visuals that Speak: Why Images Bring Family History to Life

A good image can stop the scroll—and tell a powerful story. In the world of genealogy, visuals are more than just decorations; they are a key way to bring our ancestors’ stories into focus and help others connect with our family histories. Whether it’s an old photograph, a newly created family tree, or a restored image of a handwritten letter, visuals have the unique power to evoke emotions and create deeper connections to the past.

I’m incredibly thankful for the tools at our disposal—like Canva for designing beautiful family history graphics, or photo restoration services that breathe new life into damaged or faded photographs. These resources allow us to preserve and share images in ways that make the past feel more immediate, more real, and more accessible to others. An image can transform a piece of research into something tangible, providing context and emotion that simple facts and dates often cannot convey.

For example, one of my favorite visuals that I’ve created is a timeline of my great-grandparents’ life events. It’s a simple, yet impactful way to present key moments, like their wedding date, the birth of their children, and their migration across the country. Seeing their lives mapped out visually allowed me—and others—to feel more connected to their journey.

🎨 Share a favorite visual you’ve created or used in a family history post. It might be a restored photo of an ancestor or a custom graphic that summarizes key family milestones. These visuals can serve as conversation starters, helping others see the story behind the names and dates.

💡 Tip: Keep your visuals clear, warm, and story-driven—people connect to people. When you use images, make sure they’re not just about pretty design; they should tell a story that resonates with your audience. A photo of an ancestor with a brief story about them can do more to inspire interest than a simple fact sheet ever could.

Visuals are often the bridge between a story told in words and one told in emotion. They offer a window into the past and help people connect with the family history we’re working so hard to preserve. So next time you’re sharing your research or family story, remember: Visuals matter!

Tracing the past, one post at a time. Follow me for more stories, prompts, and good vibes. - Jon Marie Pearson | The Simple Living Genealogist