A spontaneous thought...
In the summer of 1975, photographer Nicholas Nixon was visiting his wife’s family when he spontaneously asked his wife and her three sisters to pose for a photograph. The result was a powerful black-and-white portrait of the four women standing side by side, framed by a gentle landscape of trees and grass. Their natural stances and cheerful expressions conveyed not just the ease of the moment, but also the strong connection they shared as sisters.
A year later, during one of the sisters’ graduation ceremonies, Nixon decided to recreate the image. He had them stand in the same order, and after reviewing the photos, he proposed the idea of capturing the same shot every year. The sisters agreed, sparking what would become one of Nixon’s most iconic and long-lasting photographic projects.
Imagine having a personal visual timeline that documents you and your siblings growing older together, year after year. These annual portraits evolve into a powerful visual narrative—not just showing how their appearances change, but also reflecting the unbreakable bond between them. Take a moment to explore this touching photo series.
1975
In 1975, the remarkable annual photo series of the Brown Sisters was born, sparked by Nicholas Nixon’s artistic vision and the enthusiastic participation of the sisters themselves.
With a simple yet deeply moving concept, Nixon captures the passage of time, preserving fleeting moments that transform into lasting memories. The inaugural photograph showcases the four Brown sisters: Heather, Mimi, Bebe, and Lori.
1976
Who are these women? Their identities remain largely a mystery—listed from left to right: Heather, Mimi, Bebe, and Lori, with Nixon’s wife Bebe distinguished by her intense gaze. While viewers may instinctively search for hints about their lives, the series stays true to Nixon’s intent: revealing nothing beyond their compelling expressions and stances.
Are they Irish? Perhaps Italian? Their heritage remains unknown, adding to the intrigue sparked by their self-assured expressions. Posing just outside Hartford in their distinctive dresses, the sisters' undeniable presence leads Nixon toward what would become one of the most emotionally profound milestones in his photographic journey.
1977
Through black-and-white photography, Nixon captures both the flow of time and the evolving bond between the sisters. The monochrome style highlights the delicate signs of aging—from gentle facial lines to shifts in body language—lending the series a sense of timelessness and quiet intimacy.
The composition is simple and uncluttered, centering entirely on the sisters as the main focus. Their expressions are solemn yet natural, avoiding stiffness and instead conveying a genuine sense of presence. While each sister has distinct features, the close framing underscores their closeness and shared connection.
1978
The fourth image in Nicholas Nixon’s 'Brown Sisters' series captures a quiet, intimate moment shared among the four siblings. Their calm, thoughtful expressions feel genuine and unforced, enhancing the photo’s authenticity. The gentle curve formed by their faces draws the viewer’s eye, highlighting the deep connection they share.
The soft, natural lighting lends the image a light, airy atmosphere, while the plain backdrop and understated clothing draw attention to the sisters’ faces. The gentle texture of the background enhances the composition, creating a cohesive and timeless feel. It's a subtle yet powerful portrayal of enduring connections and the gradual passage of time.
1979
This photograph from Nicholas Nixon’s “Brown Sisters” series furthers his ongoing exploration of time and the bond between sisters. The four women stand closely, their individual postures and expressions—ranging from soft smiles to thoughtful gazes—conveying both intimacy and individuality within the shared frame.
Nixon’s distinctive black-and-white approach lends emotional weight to the images, stripping away distractions to center attention on the sisters’ faces and the subtle flow of time. The use of natural settings adds a timeless grace, while the simple, varied clothing choices reflect his talent for portraying both intimate personal moments and universal themes, anchoring the series in the reality of everyday life.
1980
This image reveals the deep connection among the four sisters through a more intimate and emotionally resonant composition. A gentle, reflective mood is present, with one sister wrapping her arm around another—a quiet gesture that conveys closeness and affection through understated interaction.
Nixon uses natural light to create contrast that highlights skin textures and clothing details. Subtle changes in posture, expression, and gaze tell stories of shared experiences and personal identities.
1981
This photograph continues the visual story, presenting the four sisters seated outdoors with expressions that are unified and intent. Their close grouping and relaxed summer clothing create a feeling of ease, yet their direct gazes hint at a deeper, more intricate emotional bond beneath the surface.
The natural setting—dappled sunlight and rich greenery—stands in stark contrast to the sisters’ intense expressions, creating a subtle tension within the frame. This photograph feels like a moment of quiet reflection, hinting at the passage of time, life’s inevitable changes, and the lasting bond that continues to tie them together.
1982
Captured in 1982, this photograph shows the Brown sisters outdoors, likely in brisk weather. Whether they were on a family trip, at a special gathering, or simply embracing the outdoors, the chosen setting reflects the spirit of curiosity and exploration that defined the 1980s.
This image continues the series’ meditation on time, depicting the four women bundled in heavy winter attire beneath a moody, overcast sky. Their softened expressions carry a quiet gravity, evoking contemplation and a deepening sense of reflection.
1983
This photograph captures a sense of quiet strength, marking another chapter in the sisters’ evolving relationship and shared history. Though they face the camera, their gazes hint at introspection, each seemingly lost in her own thoughts. Dressed in light, casual attire with subtle patterns and textures that blend seamlessly with the outdoor environment, the softly blurred background draws attention fully to their faces, emphasizing their presence and connection.
This photograph draws the viewer into the heart of the sisters’ animated exchange, capturing the vitality of their connection and the enduring thread woven through their shared lives. In these candid moments of laughter and lighthearted rivalry, the true spirit of sisterhood radiates with warmth and authenticity.
1984
The 1984 beach photograph captures the joy and exuberance of the Brown sisters, while also subtly revealing Nicholas Nixon’s presence through his faint shadow in the frame. This quiet inclusion acts as a symbolic gesture, reinforcing his role as the silent observer and custodian of these treasured moments.
With their arms gently intertwined, the two sisters visibly express their deep connection. The sunlight casts a striking interplay of light and shadow across their faces, enhancing their serene yet contemplative expressions. Set against a peaceful beach backdrop, the scene evokes a sense of calm while subtly symbolizing the passage of time and the enduring strength of their relationship.
1985
In 1985, the Brown sisters and Nicholas Nixon entered a new phase in their ongoing photographic journey, reaffirming their dedication to the project. With a decade of images behind them, the arrangement of the sisters no longer followed any fixed order, subtly highlighting the passage of time and the transient nature of each captured moment.
In this image, the four sisters stand closely together beneath a canopy of tree branches, with dappled sunlight gently streaming through the leaves. One sister’s arm resting on another’s shoulder adds a subtle yet powerful gesture of closeness. The flowing fabrics of their clothing and the serene natural setting contribute to a peaceful, intimate mood that reflects both their bond and their shared presence in the moment.
1986
In this close-up portrait, the four women stand tightly grouped, face to face, highlighting the depth of their connection. Gentle lighting smooths the texture of their skin and accentuates the delicate contours of their features. Each sister meets the camera with a composed, serious gaze, conveying a quiet strength and a strong sense of unity.
The understated clothing and plain background draw full attention to the expressions of the two sisters, highlighting the depth of their connection. The tight framing creates an intimate atmosphere, capturing the powerful, often unspoken bond they share as they navigate the passage of time side by side.
1987
The 1987 photograph brings Bebe and Mimi to the forefront, with Heather and Lori gently fading into the background. This deliberate composition may suggest a special moment or milestone for Bebe and Mimi, setting them apart within the frame. The portrait as a whole offers a subtle window into each sister’s personal journey and the meaningful moments they choose to preserve.
Each sister’s unique journey, shaped by personal milestones and achievements, reflects the layered and multifaceted essence of sisterhood. It serves as a poignant reminder that within a shared bond, individual narratives continue to evolve, creating a vibrant and deeply woven tapestry of life experiences.
1988
This photograph exemplifies Nicholas Nixon’s talent for imbuing a straightforward portrait with profound meaning. The four sisters stand side by side, their expressions calm and subtly expressive, evoking a sense of enduring togetherness. A gentle gesture—one sister’s arm wrapped around another—adds a layer of warmth and comfort, capturing a moment that speaks to a lifetime of shared connection.
Nixon skillfully captures the quiet, unspoken connection between the two sisters in a way that feels effortless and genuine. Their casual leopard-print attire stands out against the gentle, natural background, creating a striking contrast that enhances the sense of impermanence and the delicate nature of their bond.
1989
The 1989 photograph presents an intriguing layer of mystery, with Heather’s partially obscured figure behind Mimi hinting at the possibility of her approaching motherhood. The intentional choice to keep such personal details subtly framed reinforces the sisters’ shared focus and enduring dedication to their collective photographic journey, placing their bond and the continuity of the project at the forefront.
In this portrait, Nicholas Nixon masterfully conveys the quiet strength of sisterhood. The two sisters stand close, their affectionate poses and thoughtful expressions revealing both their unique identities and their deep connection. The interplay of their clothing—contrasting stripes, solids, and varied textures—adds a layer of visual nuance that enhances the intimacy of the image.
1990
In this photograph, the four sisters stand shoulder to shoulder beneath a cloudy sky, their faces framed by the soft light of an overcast day. Dressed in warm jackets and turtlenecks—ranging from denim to fleece—their attire hints at the chill of fall or early winter, lending the scene a rustic, grounded atmosphere. Yet, it’s their expressions—calm, contemplative, and quietly powerful—that truly anchor the image.
The two sisters share steady, serene, and slightly introspective gazes, with one gently placing her arm around the other in a subtle gesture of comfort and protection. Through Nixon’s lens, this moment reveals more than physical closeness—it conveys the quiet resilience and lasting strength that define sisterhood and familial bonds.
1991
In this photograph, the two sisters appear increasingly alike with age—their piercing eyes, defined cheekbones, and unwavering gazes reinforcing a powerful sense of familial connection. Standing shoulder to shoulder, they share little physical contact, yet the emotional closeness between them is unmistakable, radiating a quiet, unspoken bond.
Dressed in understated, slightly formal clothing, the sisters draw attention to their faces—marked by time yet gracefully illuminated. The diffused light from the overcast sky casts gentle shadows, accentuating their shared expression of quiet resilience and accumulated wisdom.
1992
In this photograph, the four sisters stand closely in a modest yet tender formation. One gently holds another’s arm, her soft smile adding warmth to the scene, while the others face the camera with composed, thoughtful expressions. Their varied outfits—featuring patterns, stripes, and cozy sweaters—reflect their unique personalities, all set against a clean, unobtrusive background that keeps the focus on their presence and bond.
In this thoughtfully composed and subtly evocative photograph, Nixon captures a moment rich with suggestion. Heather’s gaze is directed at Mimi’s belly, her hand resting gently upon it—a quiet gesture that hints Mimi may be expecting. Without explicitly stating anything, the image invites interpretation, delicately marking a possible milestone in the sisters’ shared journey.
1993
In a departure from their usual tradition of capturing family portraits in natural daylight, the Brown sisters and Nixon experimented for the first time with nighttime photography. Using flash to light the scene, they embraced the surrounding darkness, introducing a new mood and visual style that added a distinctive atmosphere to the ongoing series.
This shift from the customary daytime setting reflects a deliberate move toward experimentation and creative growth within the project—a willingness to challenge conventional family portraiture and infuse the ongoing visual narrative with renewed artistic expression.
1994
The Brown sisters and Nixon may have chosen to recreate this photo on purpose, as it closely resembles a similar close-up from 1986. The familiar setting highlights their strong bond and the many memories they’ve shared over the years.
The bold patterns and textures in the sisters’ outfits let each of them show their unique style without stealing focus. With no distracting background, their faces take center stage. The image feels honest and strong, as if they’re standing together, ready to face whatever comes next.
1995
This 1995 photo beautifully highlights the deep love and lasting connection between the Brown sisters. The warm hug shared by two of them is a powerful reminder of the strength and resilience that defines their sisterhood over time.
One striking detail in the photo series is the sisters’ minimal use of jewelry. This choice may be intentional, reflecting a desire to keep the focus on their authentic selves. By avoiding distractions, they highlight the simplicity and timeless strength of their bond as sisters.
1996
In 1996, the Brown sisters and Nixon revisited a moment from the past by recreating a photo originally taken in 1984. This intentional return to an earlier scene brought a sense of nostalgia and added deeper meaning to their long-running photography project.
In two specific images, Nixon’s shadow gently overlaps his wife’s, quietly marking his presence in their lives and his role as both observer and storyteller of their shared journey. The lack of decoration adds a natural, grounded quality to the photos, highlighting their raw, honest beauty.
1997
In this portrait, the two sisters stand close together in formal clothing, presenting a refined and mature presence. Their tailored jackets and subtle touches like pearl accessories add elegance, setting this image apart from the more relaxed photos in the series. Their calm, serious expressions reveal a quiet confidence shaped by years of shared experience.
The simple, neutral background keeps the focus on the sisters' faces and posture, free from any distractions. This portrait captures a moment of quiet confidence, with the formal setup highlighting both their individual strength and lasting connection.
1998
In this 1998 photo, the Brown sisters appear joyful and at ease, their expressions reflecting a sense of harmony and peace. The wind softly tousles their hair, adding a playful touch to the scene. Even with the breeze, it's clear they’re enjoying the simple pleasure of being together on a beautiful day.
The open sky and gentle clouds in the background enhance the sense of freedom and ease, like a quiet pause during an outdoor journey to capture a familiar moment. The sisters stand together naturally, as if they’ve done it many times before and will do it many times again. Framed by nature, the photo reflects both unity and a quiet, effortless grace.
1999
In the 1999 photo, Nixon places intentional focus on Bebe, positioning the three sisters around her in a way that draws the eye. This thoughtful composition highlights Bebe’s significance and reflects the strength and support at the heart of their sisterhood.
The outdoor setting, with its softly blurred trees, gives the photo a calm, natural feel. The sisters’ thoughtful but easygoing expressions suggest they’ve been through a lot and are now simply appreciating the moment. It’s a timeless, honest image that shows their unshakable bond through all of life’s ups and downs.
2000
In this heartfelt photo, the Brown sisters return to the same beach they visited back in 1984. Revisiting this familiar place adds a layer of nostalgia, hinting at the deep memories and emotional ties they share. Their return highlights the lasting importance of that moment and the comfort of shared traditions.
The sisters’ coordinated outfits highlight their unity and visually express the strength of their bond. Their matching looks reflect a deep mutual understanding and care for one another, capturing the heart of their enduring connection. In a single image, the Brown sisters share a powerful message of love, support, and unshakable family ties.
2001
The Brown sisters come together on the beach to mark the dawn of a new century, celebrating a meaningful milestone in their long-running photography project. Taken by Nixon from a distance, this photo symbolizes the journey they’ve shared, capturing both the passage of time and the distance they’ve traveled together.
In this elegant seaside portrait, the sisters stand serenely, their expressions calm and reflective. The soft, muted tones of their clothing complement the tranquil beach setting, with the sand spreading gently behind them. Their poised gestures, whether holding hands or resting gracefully, convey a quiet strength, and their unified stance exudes calm confidence.
2002
In this lively image, the sisters are gathered in a close, protective embrace. Their outfits, ranging from bold floral prints to casual T-shirts and tank tops, reflect their individual styles, just as their expressions do. The warmth between them is clear, as they lean on each other with a deep sense of connection.
The blurred outdoor setting creates a soft, comforting backdrop, contrasting with the vibrant energy of the two sisters. This portrait captures resilience and togetherness, with decades of shared history reflected in every glance and gesture. It’s a natural image that powerfully evokes the deep bond of sisterhood.
2003
The Brown sisters, excluding Heather, showcase impeccable fashion in their stylish polo outfits, radiating a cool, timeless vibe. Their outfit choices reflect a keen attention to detail and a commitment to presenting a cohesive, fashionable look year after year.
The sisters’ dedication to a consistent visual style throughout their photography project brings depth and elegance to the collection, showcasing their thoughtful, creative approach to this ongoing tradition. With their light-colored hair and bright backgrounds, the images feel both timeless and grounded in the present, embodying resilience and connection.
2004
This image contrasts sharply with the earlier photos in the series, where the sisters looked younger, their faces softer and expressions gentler. Over time, their features have become more defined, their gazes deeper and more introspective, and their once-relaxed postures have shifted to a more firm and determined stance.
One noticeable detail is Heather’s cell phone clipped to her waist, subtly highlighting the technological shifts that have taken place over the years. While the earlier photos showed no trace of modern gadgets, this small addition serves as a quiet reminder of the world’s evolution. Through Nixon’s lens, the sisters remain constant, but the presence of the cell phone hints at the broader social changes they’ve experienced.
2005
This 2005 photo features a unique composition, placing Heather and Rory at the center, emphasizing their presence. This arrangement may symbolize a significant milestone or event in their personal or professional lives, while also reflecting their individual journeys within the framework of their shared sisterhood.
In a compelling twist, Laurie gazes at Heather rather than directly at the camera, sparking curiosity about the deeper meaning behind their relationship in that moment. This subtle shift in focus adds a layer of mystery, inviting the viewer to interpret the photo personally and drawing them further into the unfolding story within the frame.
2006
In this portrait, the sisters sit together in a relaxed yet intimate manner, each exuding a quiet strength in their expressions. Subtle gestures, like a gentle arm resting on a knee, enhance their connection without being too obvious. It’s a moment of reflection and strength, capturing the journey they’ve shared in a way that feels both understated and profoundly meaningful.
In a surprising turn, Laurie’s gaze once again avoids direct contact with the camera, sparking curiosity about the reason behind this choice. Her enigmatic glance, as she looks away, adds to the mystery and invites speculation about what captured her attention in that moment.
2007
In this 2007 photo, the Brown sisters exude beauty and intimacy as they enjoy the warm sunlight. The soft rays of the sun gently illuminate their faces, highlighting their features and reinforcing the timeless bond they share.
The sun-kissed atmosphere of the image enhances its visual impact, evoking a sense of peace and tranquility while adding a subtle charm to the composition. It serves as a reminder of how natural light can beautifully capture moments of warmth, joy, and togetherness.
2008
In this photo, there is a subtle change in position, with Mimi seeking refuge behind Bebe and Bebe and Heather in the foreground. Laurie and Mimi are placed in the background, adding depth and dimension to the composition.
A striking detail in the image is the glimpse of Rory’s wedding ring, subtly symbolizing her marriage and marking a significant milestone in her personal journey. Bebe’s elegant bracelet adds an extra touch of style and sophistication, enhancing the overall composition and showcasing the thoughtful attention to detail in their annual portraits.
2009
The passage of time is evident in this photograph, with each line and wrinkle on the sisters' faces telling the story of decades spent together. While their faces were once youthful in Nixon's early photos, they now carry the marks of time—freckles, wrinkles, and soft contours. Yet, rather than showing any sign of weakness, their expressions exude a quiet, unwavering confidence.
A notable detail in this photo is the hand resting on one of the sisters' shoulders, subtly suggesting Nicholas Nixon's presence just outside the frame. His fingers appear in the shot, as if he has become an integral part of the sisters' journey, documenting their story over the years.
2010
In the 2010 photo, Lori's tender gesture of resting her head on Bebe's shoulder beautifully captures the deep sense of peace and connection between the sisters. Their serene expressions convey a moment of calm and contentment, serving as a powerful testament to their enduring bond.
Their faces, bathed in soft natural light, reveal the years they've shared together—wrinkles and freckles marking decades of experiences. There's a softness in their features, yet an undeniable strength in the way they lean on one another, both physically and emotionally. It speaks to a bond that has withstood time, a connection that feels unbreakable and even more profound with the passing years. The image captures a moment that feels timeless, a quiet testament to their enduring sisterhood.
2011
This photo shows Heather and Mimi gazing intently at something off-camera, their expressions filled with curiosity and wonder. What exactly captured their attention in that moment remains a mystery, inviting the viewer to imagine what could be so captivating. Was it a simple, unexpected detail in their surroundings, or perhaps a creative direction orchestrated by Nixon to add an air of intrigue to the composition? Regardless, the moment feels filled with possibility, adding layers of depth and emotion to the image.
The focused gazes of the two women bring a sense of depth and introspection to the photograph, inviting viewers to draw their own interpretations. While some might look into the distance, lost in thought, others meet the camera’s gaze, creating a subtle tension between reflection and connection. This dynamic adds complexity to the image, as if it captures a moment of quiet contemplation about the paths they’ve traveled—both together and apart—reflecting on the journey of sisterhood and life.
2012
In this portrait, the sisters' embrace speaks volumes about their deep emotional connection, feeling more profound than ever. It’s as though they are holding on to a memory that has spanned many years, a shared history that has shaped them. The protective gesture, with one sister pulling the other close, conveys a sense of unwavering support and love. Their gentle yet firm gazes reflect a bond that is not only enduring but also a source of strength, highlighting the power of sisterhood that has lasted through the passage of time.
The expressions of the two sisters exude a quiet determination, as if they’ve weathered countless challenges and emerged stronger, knowing they can face anything as long as they have each other. The intimacy and unity between them go beyond the frame of the photograph, almost as if this moment of connection is part of their daily routine. It feels natural, effortless—a reflection of the deep, unwavering bond they share. In this simple yet powerful image, the connection they share speaks louder than any words ever could.
2013
This photograph exemplifies Nixon's trademark minimalism, using simplicity to amplify the emotional weight of the moment. The tight framing pulls the viewer in, placing them in the intimate space between the sisters. This close composition creates a sense of raw, almost confrontational connection, allowing the viewer to feel the depth of their bond in a direct and unfiltered way.
This image beautifully captures the evolving bond between the sisters, moving away from the individuality seen in earlier photographs to a more unified and intertwined connection. Nixon, having grown up as an only child, has always been fascinated by the deep and complex nature of sisterhood, and this photograph reflects that sentiment. The shift from gestures of separation, like standing apart or linking arms, to the physical closeness of leaning on each other speaks to the growth of their shared bond. Independence gives way to interdependence, highlighting how their relationship has deepened and strengthened over the years.
2014
After an impressive streak of 40 consecutive shoots, the Brown sisters made the surprising decision to pause their family photo project in 2014. The reasons for this hiatus remain unknown, sparking curiosity and speculation about the underlying factors behind their choice. Whether it was a natural progression in their lives or a deeper shift in their priorities, the break marked a turning point in a project that had become so emblematic of their sisterly bond and shared history. Despite the unanswered questions, the images captured over the years continue to speak volumes about the connection they shared.
In the final photograph, there's a palpable sense of inevitability, as Nixon once remarked, "we're not all going to be here forever." This feeling is underscored by the darker tones of the image and the way the sisters are closely huddled together, as if seeking comfort in each other as they face the passage of time. Their proximity, the way their bodies seem to lean into one another, creates an emotional weight, suggesting not just a physical connection, but an emotional one that endures despite the uncertainty of the future. The image, like the entire series, captures the essence of life’s fleeting nature while highlighting the strength of their bond.