Torsten Kjellstrand

A family's legacy lives on through photos, said former National Photographer of the Year, Torsten Kjellstrand, Friday, in Cadd 117.

"When you tell someone's story, you validate their story," said Kjellstrand.

Kjellstrand was invited to make and tell the stories of numerous lives, including photos of those who were dying and even photos of an open casket.

As you make a picture, you help that family live on through their photos, he said, as he explained why they let him into their lives at such down times.

As times come and go, what you see is a slice of reality, but not the freezing of time, he said. Those families wanted him there, he explained, they wanted to help their legacy live on, even after their time had passed.

"The idea that pictures don't lie, is not true," said Kjellstrand. Different techniques are in play, and things have to be in the right place for things to work, he said.

Kjellstrand showed many of his photos and even videos of his digital storytelling. Some photos are very personal to people, so he reminded his listeners that it is important to have appreciation towards the families when showing their photos.

"When people let you into their lives, you need to be respectful," he said.