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Photography Tips
MOMS IN THE FRAME
By: Sophie Walsh, Owner and Photographer, Sophie Ryan Photography | May 4, 2023
As mothers, we often find ourselves behind the camera, capturing precious moments of our children's lives. We are the historians for our families, the keepers of memories, and the ones who document our children's milestones, adventures, and everyday moments. But in the whirlwind of chaos that is motherhood, it's easy to forget to step in front of the camera and be captured as a part of our children's story.
It's time for us to realize our worth and value in our family’s story. Our presence matters. Our love, care, and connection are irreplaceable. Our children want to see us in their photos, smiling with them, hugging them, and being present in the fleeting moments that make up their childhood. Today’s photos will be your children’s visual history, years from now, and they will be able to relive the feelings of love and joy that radiate from us as their mothers.
Being in the frame with our children is not just about taking a pretty picture. It's about acknowledging our role as mothers and celebrating it. We are not just caregivers, but also nurturers, teachers, confidants, and cheerleaders. We are the ones who kiss boo-boos, wipe tears, listen to their stories, and cheer them on in their endeavors. We are their rock, their haven, and we share their dreams. Our role as mothers is invaluable, and it deserves to be documented.
Mother's Day is a perfect time to reflect on the importance of being present in the photos with our children. It's a day to honor our role as mothers and acknowledge the love and dedication we pour into our children's lives. We deserve to be seen, recognized, and celebrated as an integral part of our family's story.
In a world that often puts pressure on mothers to do it all and be it all, let's remember that we are enough just as we are. We don't need to be perfect, have our hair done, or be dressed in our best clothes to be present in the frame. Our children want to see us in all our messy, perfect imperfectness, and beautiful glory. They want to look back and see us as we were, as we are, and as we will be.
Whether it's snapping a quick selfie, asking a friend to take a candid shot, or booking a photoshoot, it's worth the effort to be present in the frame with our children. These photos become cherished treasures that capture the love, connection, and memories that fill our hearts as mothers.
The best gift I gave myself last Mother’s Day was booking a Motherhood photoshoot with my children. I thought to myself, my oldest is turning TEN soon! How has it been a decade since I became a mother? How do I spend time capturing other people's stories and yet neglect to document my own journey? So, I booked the shoot.
In the whirlwind of busyness that often comes with motherhood, hiring a professional photographer can be a meaningful and cherished treat. It allowed me to step out from behind the camera and be fully present in the moment with my kids. It was a chance to capture the bond that I share with my children in a way that is now beautifully and artistically preserved. While candid shots and selfies are important, hiring a photographer helped me create tangible memories that my children, my children’s children and I can cherish forever. These prints are proudly displayed in our home, and remind me of the beauty of motherhood daily.
So, fellow moms, let's remember to step in front of the camera and be in those moments with our children. After all, photos are not just for our children, but for us as well–a reminder of the vital role we play. Let's celebrate the worth and value of being called mommy and let this Mother's Day be a reminder to be present, be seen, and be celebrated as the amazing mothers that we are. Happy Mother's Day!
All photos taken and copyrighted by Sophie Ryan Photography
Sophie Walsh is a local mom and Marin County Lifestyle Photographer/ Owner of Sophie Ryan Photography. She enjoys telling a family’s story through authentic imagery. You can find her most recent work on sophieryanphotography.com or on Instagram at @sophieryanphotography
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Moms in the Frame Read >>
Mother’s Day for Gilead House Read >>
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