I can relate...
I never really liked being in front of the camera. Truth is, I am way more comfortable in the behind the scenes. One might say that I use my gear as a shield.
I remember clearly when I was pregnant with my first child, barely 23 years old. So many people told me to get maternity pictures, to capture every stage, but I refused. I didn't like how I looked and kept postponing it.
Well, my baby was born and I took pictures of her every minute that she was breathing. I wanted to make sure I remembered every detail of her face, her little hands, her smile, every milestone... I also took pictures of my husband interacting with her, sleeping beside her, giving her baths, admiring her. And he took photos of me too, but I always felt so undone. I hated the pictures and complained about them. Little by little he stopped taking them.
Sometimes I go through pictures of my babies and it looks like they only ever played with dad. I'm not in the pictures. I'm usually the one taking them. Really, I was the one who picked out outfits, did their hair, made sure everything looked alright, but when you look at a photo, you can't really see that. It wasn't long before I realized that was not ok.
I wanted my kids to be able to remember the fun times we had together too... How I enjoy dancing with them, making them laugh, figuring out life along with them. I love seeing the world through their eyes.
So now I choose to be in the frame too. Despite any discomfort, or however I might look, I always make an effort. And it's great to have beautiful pictures every once in a while. When I have the chance to do my hair and make up and just be in the moment with my kids.
That's what Mommy and Me minis were about. I want every mom to just feel beautiful, be present and see themselves through their kids eyes. I want them to cherish the memories of being a mom and playing.
I feel honored to capture moments like these.
