Why it’s so important for motherhood photos to be included in your family collective memory.

If you scroll through the photos on your phone right now, what do you see? Chances are, it’s a collection of sweet moments—your child’s tiny hand clutching a favorite toy, their silly grins, sleepy snuggles and everyday chaos. But how many of those photos actually have you in them?

If the answer is “not many,” you’re not alone. So many moms (myself included) find ourselves behind the camera instead of in front of it. Maybe it’s because we’re busy, or maybe it’s because we just don’t love being in photos. But here’s the truth: one day, your child will want to see you in them. Not posed, not perfect—just you.

So if you struggle with getting in front of the camera, let’s talk about some real, doable ways to make it easier. Let’s try to make motherhood photos something we can leave for our littles as little trail of memories as they, and we, age. 

Shift Your Perspective—It’s Not Just About You

We all have things we’d change about ourselves in photos. But when your child looks back at these pictures years from now, they won’t see the things you critique.

They’ll see their mom—the person who loved them, comforted them, and made them feel safe.

Instead of focusing on how you look in photos, try thinking about why you’re taking them. These moments matter. And you being in them? That matters, too.

Start Small: Casual, Everyday Photos

You don’t need a perfectly styled outfit or a professional camera to start getting in photos. The easiest way? Start with everyday moments.

✔  Set your phone on a windowsill and turn on the self-timer while you snuggle your little one.

✔  Ask your partner (or even your older child) to snap a quick photo while you read a bedtime story.

✔  Prop your phone up and take a simple mirror selfie while holding your baby.

No pressure, no posing—just real, simple moments.

Find Angles & Poses That Feel Natural

If feeling awkward in photos is holding you back, try these small adjustments to make it feel more natural:

✔ Hold your child – Having your hands busy gives you something to focus on, and snuggling your baby creates a natural, relaxed look.

✔ Look at them, not the camera – Instead of staring into the lens, look down at your baby or interact with your child. It takes the pressure off!

✔ Keep moving – Swaying, walking, or playing with your child makes for candid, authentic photos (and helps you forget the camera is even there).

Make It a Routine

The more often you get into photos, the more comfortable it becomes. Set a small goal—maybe once a week, snap a quick photo with your kids, not just of them. It doesn’t have to be perfect, just consistent.

If your children are older and able to hold a camera (or more likely, your phone) have them take the photos on occasion as well. It’s really fun and so wonderful to see what they capture, to see yourself through their eyes. 

Let Go of Perfection!

Your child doesn’t need a picture-perfect, styled version of you. They need you as you are—messy bun, tired eyes, laughter, love, and all.

The next time you hesitate to be in a photo, remember this: one day, these pictures will be priceless to your child. You won’t regret taking them—but you might regret not having them.

So step in front of the camera, mama. You deserve to be there.