One, Two, Three, Click! – 1975
Bebe Brown made a good decision marrying photographer Nicholas Nixon, because thanks to that, she has this masterpiece from 1975 along with her sisters Laurie, Mimi, and Heather. So here we encounter the four of them in their youth, aged between 15 and 25, with their whole life ahead of them. Yet, their faces emit hope and anticipation for the future and how their individual lives will turn out.
It seems to have been just a random photo that somehow turned out so well that they decided to turn it into a lifelong project. A lot can happen in 40 years, and we cannot wait to see their follow-up photos.
Some Style Into The Equation – 1976
Although these were the '70s when the fashion and beauty industries had not evolved as we know them now, it seems the sisters decided to step out in the name of style. Apart from the stylish clothes each of them is rocking, we can see some heightened sense of awareness and confidence in the ladies.
This yearly photo project must have inspired each sister to get fashion tips and then come back looking and feeling like a movie star every year. We are also introduced to some closeness between Laurie and Bebe, given that they appear to be wearing matching dresses. Whether it was pure coincidence or preplanned, we love it.
May The Force Be With You – 1977
It’s only the third shoot, but in 1977, the sisters look like full-blown superstars. They must have watched ‘Star Wars: Episode IV - A New Hope’ that dropped that year and decided they had had enough joking and smiling with the world, and now it was time for some serious action.
Most notable is the boss lady look on every sister’s face and their incredible sense of style. The photographer must have wondered what was going through their minds in this piece because they seem either ready to deal with someone or straight-up rule the world. The future should be cautious of the girl power portrayed here.
No Jokes Allowed – 1978
The ladies look like the ultimate power force in this 1978 photo. Their yearly photo project seems to have brought them closer together where they keep in touch throughout the year, supporting each other’s causes and just showering one another with love. Here Laurie, Mimi, Bebe, and Heather seem invincible and ready to fight any adversary at the slightest provocation.
They could also have been inspired by the events of the time, such as the release of the hit film ‘Grease’ featuring Olivia Newton-John and John Travolta that shook America. Whatever the case, we love the sister’s transformation into full womanhood, and the future only looks brighter.
Hey World, We’re Still Here! – 1979
Consistency is considered one of the most demanding features of human behavior, and we have to give kudos to the girls for making it to the fifth shoot. We can all imagine that by 1979, their individual lives had progressed, taking them to different parts of the globe. Nonetheless, they couldn’t let distance nor personal commitments interfere with their yearly flick.
We can see them blossoming into grown women and still keeping that keen eye for fashion and style. The look in their eyes indicates wiser people who understand life and get stronger while at it. Whatever challenges lie ahead, the quartet is ready.
Love Will Get Us Through – 1980
1980 must have been quite a spectacular year; For starters, it’s not every time you get to see the turn of a decade, and the sisters must have been glad that they got to witness it together. We have to admit that we love the switch from the very serious poses they were settling for in previous years to this affectionate moment where they seem genuinely happy.
One possible scenario is that the photographer might have caught them off-guard when they were enjoying some deep sisterly bonding. Or maybe they were celebrating some major milestone like a graduation or a wedding for one of them.
Sit & Pose – 1981
The year is 1981, and Laurie, Bebe, Heather, and Mimi seem to be getting dapper and more mature each day. At this point, most of the Brown sisters are probably working and raising a young family on the side and so have gotten pretty used to the nitty-gritty of life.
They also seem to have discovered diverse stylish poses because this sitting photo of them looks incredibly beautiful. We must admit that they have blossomed to become stunning women, and whoever was not married or engaged by the time of this annual portrait must've been quite an eligible young lady in her neighborhood.
Braving The Cold - 1982
In 1982, it seems that the sisters’ schedules allowed them to be all available during the cold season. Still, they decided even snow or extreme temperatures had nothing against their unbreakable family bond. The photographer must also have thought it a good idea to add such a shot to his growing collection, where the ladies were all donned up in winter gear.
The photo is a lovely one as it makes a statement of these women’s undying love for each other, come rain or sunshine. Wintertime brings with it the Holiday season, a time for families everywhere to come together and celebrate the Yuletide festivities with their loved ones.
Looking All Fresh & Dapper – 1983
The Brown sisters’ photos tell an exciting story of their journey as they grew up in their individual lives and on the world stage as things like the fashion, beauty, and technology industries thrived. This 1983 photo presents yet another very stylish pose where the ladies spot fancier hairstyles and clothes.
Nixon must have also sharpened his skills behind the camera based on how neatly he has arranged the sisters to take this fantastic shot. There is an air of confidence and enlightenment brimming from this image, and we can tell the ladies are enjoying life while becoming more sophisticated.
Fun On The Beach – 1984
Life keeps getting better and more fun for Heather, Bebe, Mimi, and Laurie. On this day in 1984, they decided to tag Nixon along for a sunny day at the beach, and just from the look on their faces, it’s clear that it was a good decision. We love everything from their relaxed outfits to their calm postures.
Mr. Photographer also decided to make a cameo appearance as a shadowy figure on the image, and we can see his silhouette as he takes the shot. This date marked their tenth anniversary doing their annual family portrait, and we guess they must have been very proud of themselves.
A Decade-Long Project - 1985
While this year marked a turning point for pop culture in America and the TV series 'The Golden Girls' hit our screens, what made this year outstanding for the Brown sisters was that they had kept their yearly tradition of taking pictures for a decade.
It'd been a long time coming for these sisters - right from the time most of them were in their early to mid-twenties up to this moment when only the last born was in her twenties. Judging by their looks, we can see that these women have become quite comfortable in front of the camera. Well, they have their ten years' experience to thank for that.
A Closeup View - 1986
Anyone following the Brown sisters' annual pictures would notice some notable changes in this photo. For one, unlike previous ones, this shot is up close and personal. In a way, it gives us a more objective and intimate view of the sisters. Perhaps that's why we noticed another difference - the siblings have a hint of a smile on their faces, unlike their signature somber expression that graced their faces in all the portraits so far.
Despite their evident and remarkable changes, one thing remained constant - the black and white filter. Colored pictures were already in vogue in 1986, so it's nice to see that the sisters decided not to follow the trend.
A Change of Focus - 1987
Although this is another close-up picture of the Brown sisters, you would also notice that this 1987 photo is somewhat different. This time around, Mimi and Bebe - Nixon's wife - take center stage.
We could take a wild guess and say maybe those two women had important things happening in their lives that year and deserved to have the focus this time around. Or maybe, the ladies and the photographer thought to spice things up by changing their arrangement. Whichever the case, this is undoubtedly another beautiful picture of the Brown siblings who've done their best to keep this annual ritual.
Moving With The Trend - 1988
This is one of the few times we've seen the sisters follow the trend. No, the photo is still black and white, but look at the cheetah print on Laurie! We're sure that's the first thing anyone who sees this picture would notice - at least, that's what we did.
It would have been nicer if we knew what color the shirt was, though.
This decade was notorious for some really crazy fashion styles and colors, so we'd have loved to know just how much Laurie had hopped on that bandwagon. However, note that the women are also smiling more in this picture.
Heather's Secret - 1989
There's no denying there was a noticeable change in this photo. Heather moved to the background, and it looked like Mimi was doing her best to help her sister stay hidden.
The reason for this arrangement remains a mystery, but of course, people usually always have something to say. So, here is some folks' speculation - Heather was pregnant and was trying to keep it away from the public. That might be true, but what if she just wanted to strike a different pose? If it really was a new family member on the way, then perhaps the siblings just thought it would be best to keep their private affairs out of the picture.
A Cold Decade - 1990
Welcome to the '90s, and what better way should the sisters commemorate the new decade than to take their annual family portrait? Since it was a cold season, the Brown siblings had no choice but to wear something different. This time around, they wore matching outfits, with Mimi and Bebe sporting denim and Heather and Laurie rocking fleece.
Their matching ensembles are a sure sign that these sisters have gotten closer over the years, and it's very important to note that Bebe is holding on to Laurie. Yes, the Brown girls have definitely grown closer. Perhaps ushering in a new decade together helped strengthen their familial bond.
A Family Affair - 1991
While no one can deny the fact that these four women are sisters, the resemblance in this picture is so striking; you can hardly tell them apart. Bebe's blond hair is the only thing that's helped us separate her from her siblings.
This scenario isn't really a surprise to us - siblings tend to look more alike as they age. And these ladies have been at this photo game for 15 years, aging gracefully while at it. The content look on their faces is also proof that these Brown women are living beautiful lives beyond the camera and their yearly photographs.
A Little One On The Way - 1992
While Nixon and the Brown sisters have tried to keep their private lives out of their pictures, sometimes you can't help but notice how the sisters are faring in the outside world- Like in this annual family portrait.
That is why we can detect signs that Mimi might be pregnant in this picture. One, Heather has her hand on Mimi's stomach, and the latter is even sporting a free-flowing dress that's common among expecting women. If that's the case, it's about time we heard the news of a Brown baby. Although we'd like to believe that one or more of the sisters already have kids, but we might never know.
A Late Night Photoshoot - 1993
It's been almost two decades of the sisters taking pictures, but this is the first nighttime photo shoot we've seen. It looks like Nixon took the photo at night with a torch, and the sweater on each sister is proof that it probably was a chilly evening.
We don't know what made the family decide to change the theme of their picture this time around - maybe Nixon was too busy to take it during the day, or the girls simply wanted to do something unique this year. Still, it's another beautiful picture of the four sisters, and we love this new twist.
The Closeup Replica - 1994
Remember the Brown sisters had their first closeup shot in 1986? This is 1994, and the women decided to go for another zoomed-in view. We don't know if this was simply a coincidence or perhaps something significant happened in both years that made Nixon and the sisters feel like a photo replica was in order.
You should also notice that Laurie and Heather look so alike in this picture; they could pass off as twins. It took a while before we could tell the two sisters apart, and we're honestly not sure many would get it right. This would've been fun for the ladies - having the public mistake one for the other.
Together Forever - 1995
There is nothing more reassuring than a hug from loved ones. That soothing effect of a cherished embrace emanates in this photograph. It means comfort, affection, and a promise that no matter where life takes us, we can count on the love and support of our family and closest friends.
The sisters are going through the everyday journey with the realization that regardless of the situation, they can always count on each other to be there, doing what sisters do best - unending commitment through thick and thin. It’s always better navigating life experiences when siblings have each other’s backs.
Without A Shadow Of Doubt - 1996
A big rule in photography is, always check for shadows and ensure that ample lighting is present. We can forgive Nixon for this slight mistake because most of the other pictures that he took of the sisters have turned out to be excellent.
Actually, that shadow of Nixon superimposed on the sisters adds a little bit of character to the entire image. It is like the ladies are telling us that no matter what looms in the distance, no matter what shadows or dark circumstances may be lying in wait up ahead, they are sticking close to each other and getting through it all together.
Windswept - 1997
Who needs a wind machine to create a dramatic effect on a photograph when the natural atmosphere makes just precisely what is required? We love the look of the sisters in this photo, with the wind lightly caressing and lifting their hair to add a bit of flair to everything.
In fact, we can almost imagine this picture on the cover of a magazine or an album. They look like professional recording artists releasing their newest work of art, a symphony of sister power encouraging listeners to seek out their family members and connect deeply. We don't know about you, but this portrait certainly reminds us to celebrate the bond of familial love.
Reflecting & Reminiscing - 1998
Notice the pure, unadulterated, filter-free vulnerability and intimacy coming from the eyes and body language of the four sisters in this image. It is as if they invite the casual viewer to look closer, deeper, and understand the impact of capturing special seasons in one's life.
It is important to remember and share memories with those who mean the most to us by our sides. 1998's Brown family portrait is a heart-warming one, indeed. Here, the Brown siblings fondly look back and reminisce on how growing up together has changed them on the outside and smile at the thought of all those things that have still remained constant.
Seaside Snapshot - 1999
The coastline always makes for a great setting when taking pictures. In this image, the Brown sisters are enjoying a beautiful day by the sea, listening to the waves, basking in the salty air carried by the breeze as they take in the sights of nature.
We can imagine what their conversations may have been like as they sat on the sand, next to each other, planning for their next trips or catching up on how each other’s families are doing. In those few hours, all that would have mattered was the four of them, leaving the world behind even for those fleeting moments, grateful for each other’s company.
Beginning Of A New Century - 2000
Probably a beach day for the ladies to celebrate two big milestones! Firstly for successfully entering the new century between life’s hassles and secondly for attending a silver jubilee in a unique photography project that the Brown family, along with the cameraman Nicholas Nixon started back in 1975.
As a matter of fact, it happens to be the time when the world’s population reached six billion. On the side of it, it was also the year which the United Nations designated as the 'International Year for the Culture of Peace.' So, maybe this picture is in support of such a progressive decision.
A Hug To Mark Good Over Bad - 2001
People might remember the year through the sad event of 9/11. Yet, Nixon's idea of capturing hugging siblings might be an attempt to reflect the positive aspect of life, that is, no matter what the problem is, it can be overcome by each other's support.
Looking at the way these sisters have locked one another in their arms, it is evident that this would only bring smiles to their faces whenever they see it. Additionally, it will also act as a reminder for them that at the time when the world witnessed such a frightful incident, their family was there to help them move on.
Sisters Tried A Sporty Look! - 2002
Since 1975, these Brown sisters have surprised us by wearing different dresses in the pictures as if they wanted to represent the costume culture of a particular year. So, now seeing them in a polo t-shirt, we assume that it might have been people's favorite ready-to-wear for the year 2002.
Of course, why wouldn't it be? After all, they are cheap, durable, and come in all sizes, which is why it has still survived in the market. Yet, Heather's contrasting choice shows that maybe she is not into the new sporty look, but that didn't stop her from being a part of their old photography tradition.
Adapting To The Technology - 2003
The multicolor beaded necklace on Heather and her stylish attire gives us an impression that she might have been on her way to some party before Nixon planned to click this snap. Also, how can we ignore her flip phone that she proudly hung to her waist? Probably it was her first mobile, and she wanted it to be included in their memory series.
One more thing that grabbed our attention is Laurie's lost-in-thought pose. Nevertheless, it's hard to tell if it was the photographer's candid click or he wanted to convey something through her. Yet, certainly, it added an element of curiosity to the snap.
Laurie's Intense Look - 2004
With a lake on one side and an infinite road on the other, doesn't it look as if the Brown family were on the way to someplace but stopped in between to have a quick snap after finding such scenic beauty? In that case, it doesn't seem to have worked in Laurie's favor, given her unusual gaze.
The way she is looking at Heather puts out a message that it could be the eldest sister who is responsible for the idea of stopping. Yet despite this, we would say that it gave us a rare insight into the kind of fun relationship these sisters share among themselves, which certainly has been their biggest strength too.
Be On The Look Out – 2005
The sisters are here again in front of some vegetation, and Laurie seems to be looking out for something. We assume that she is just being her overprotective self and keeping an eye out for Hurricane Katrina, which hit this year.
Honestly, we do not know why she is looking away, but whatever it is, we hope Laurie is enjoying what she is seeing. We also notice that the necklace on Mimi is new since we have not seen her wear it. Maybe it was a gift from one of the sisters, and she is either showing it off or just likes the look.
Sun Day Fun Day – 2006
These ladies truly brighten anyone's day, and as we can see, even the sun agrees with them. This time around, their resemblance is particularly obvious because, at first glance, one would think it is the same face four times. No one would doubt at all that these women are all blood-related.
A popular app was launched this year, and this picture is a perfect one to post there. The close-up, the beautiful hair, and the ageless beauty would surely garner love from the app at its initial stages. Although, we doubt that they were interested in the social media app at all in 2006.
Bebe Is In The Spotlight – 2007
Remember the very first iPhone? Well, it was launched in 2007 and immediately became very successful, selling over 1 million units in just three months. But, we do not know if these ladies owned an iPhone at that time, especially looking at how popular the phone became later on.
The sisters are arranged differently, and we can see that Mimi seems to be behind in this year's photo. Maybe it is a ploy to give her other sisters the chance to be centered this time around? Bebe is not complaining and is enjoying being front and center with her cute bracelet and friendly smile.
Oops, A Finger – 2008
We have all been there, taking a photo and mistakenly having our finger in it. That is what happened here because we can see Nixon's finger in the top right corner of the photo. His finger kind of humanizes the moment a little more since it reminds everyone that there's someone behind the camera.
Something is on our minds though, did they not see the finger or just choose to leave it there as some inside joke? We would never know, but the picture remains largely unaffected despite the little mishap, and the sisters are still as beautiful and loved up as ever.
Sleep My Little Laurie – 2009
Such a cute sister moment is captured here with Laurie's head resting on Bebe's shoulder and her eyes closed. It is as if she is lost in the moment, ignoring the entire outside world and simply living in that split second. This action is a vital sign of trust in each other because little tiny gestures like this tell us how they feel about themselves.
Still, it is not only Laurie resting on her sister's body since all of them seem to be leaning on one another this time around. This was undoubtedly a year of trust and love for these ladies, and even their body language cannot hide it.
Attempt At Candid Shot – 2010
The trend of taking candid pictures might be new in this decade, so the sisters decided not to fall behind the movement but hop on the bandwagon. Nevertheless, something very interesting must have caught the sisters’ eyes because the shot looks so natural.
The only one who is unbothered is Bebe. Not forgetting that it’s her husband taking the picture, she makes sure to smile for him. How cute! While the sisters seemed happy, some strange things were happening in the world. For example, only three people were living in Moriusaq, Greenland, until 2010. But, the population reduced to two in an attempt at self-defense.
Weird Hand Placement – 2011
One of the biggest challenges we face while taking a picture is that we can’t figure out where to place our hands. We see models posing gracefully with their hands, but one trial, and we end up looking awkward. Well, we are not alone. The Brown sisters seem to be struggling with their hand placement as well.
This weird hand position makes this picture a memorable one. Another thing worth remembering is that the popular abbreviations “OMG” and “LOL” were officially made a part of the Oxford English Dictionary and spared us the effort of writing the full forms. So now we can use these words easily without the worry of anyone correcting us.
We All Survived – 2012
The whole world was taken entirely by a stir when rumors made the rounds that 2012 might be the last year we survive. Honestly, we all were a bit scared when we saw the film "2012" and prayed that the world doesn't end here.
Thankfully, the Brown sisters did not take the Nostradamus prediction seriously, and instead of leaving everything out of fright, they took a close shot this time, showing how they stick together no matter what. While everyone was focused on the forecast, kale rose to prominence. Before 2012, we didn't see kale on our salads that often. The only place we could find it was 'Pizza Hut,' where it was used to garnish their salad bars.
Let’s Meet After A Break – 2013
Let us all cherish this picture as much as we can because the Brown sisters decided to take a break after this one for four solid years! We never got to know why we were deprived of pictures for such a long gap, but whatever it was, Nixon considerably made up for this and made us happy with this beautiful capture.
However, this sister squad was the only one who decided to take a break. Pope Benedict XVI also took a break and resigned from his position. This event made history as he became the first Pope to resign in around 600 years.
It’s a Wrap! – 2017
This picture of the Brown sisters is as unique as their first one because it marked the end of their 40-year-long project. Finally, after four years, the sister squad reunited to pose in front of the camera and wrap up their project for good.
We should be thankful to Nicholas Nixon for his determination and effort in capturing the sisters together. He created an excellent set of memories for these women, a sort of timeline of their lives. We saw them grow old together and learned that strong bonds last forever even though looks may fade away. This project will always remind us that there are several good things to see in the world.