Photographs and family albums are helpful in marriage and family psychotherapy to aid in the understanding of family processes, relationship patterns, goals, expectations, values, traditions, and ideals. Based on the assumption that a photograph is a form of communication, photography can be used to: (1) examine typical family picture-taking behavior; (2) study family albums; (3) identlfy self-concept changes; and (4) treat marital conflicts and sexual dysfunctions. Photographs and family albums also function as family icons, visually articulating the meanings of family relationships, while serving to illustrate family continuity and evolutionary change. (Author/BMW)