The everyday family pictures finding fame in the National Portrait Gallery

In February 2022, members of the British public were asked to delve into their family albums to share the pictures that held a strong place in their hearts.

The callout, which came from family history site Ancestry, resulted in more than 2,200 submissions, all celebrating the richness and diversity of family stories across the UK through the years.

Now a selection of these historic and contemporary family snaps have been brought together for an exhibtion at the National Portrait Gallery.

Called the Nation’s Family Album, the exhibit is open to the public for free in the Spotlight Space until the 10th of September 2023, while others are on digital display.

‘The National Portrait Gallery is home to some of the world’s most famous faces, but nothing feels more rewarding than being able to display and explore the history of Britain’s everyday people,’ Dr Alison Smith, Chief Curator at National Portrait Gallery and member of the judging panel tells Metro.co.uk.

Simon Pearce, Family History Expert at Ancestry and member of the judging panel adds: “Photographs are a valuable source for family history as they provide a snapshot into the everyday lives and events of our families and ancestors.

‘When a caption or backstory accompanies a photo, it can be incredibly revealing and invaluable for future generations.

‘This is why we are thrilled to have partnered with the National Portrait Gallery for this initiative. Viewing these images, and understanding the unique stories behind them, is a truly moving experience.’

Here are just some of the glorious portraits on display.











The exhibition is available for free public viewing in the Spotlight Space until 10 September. For more information, click here.

Snapshot

Welcome to Snapshot, Metro.co.uk’s picture-led series bringing you the most powerful images and stories of the moment.

If you have a photo collection you would like to share, get in touch by emailing [email protected] 

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