Why You Deserve to Be in the Photos Too: A Note to Camera-Shy Moms

Tips for Camera-Shy Parents: Yes, You Deserve to Be in the Photos Too

If you're a mom in Plymouth, Wayzata, or Minnetonka, chances are you're the one taking the photos, not the one in them. You probably have thousands of photos of your kids, maybe a few of your partner with them, but when you scroll back through your camera roll... you're missing.

And I get it. You’re tired. You’re busy. You’re self-conscious. Maybe you’re waiting until you lose the weight or find the perfect outfit. I’ve heard it all, and I’ve said it all too.

But I want to say something, from experience: Your kids don’t care what you look like. They just want to see you.

Why this matters more than you think

My mom passed away in December of 2024. It's been a really hard seven months without her. I look at photos of her daily and I am so grateful for the photos I do have. I just wish I had more photos of her with us as kids.

She poured everything into being a mom, and yet so little of that is documented in a way we can hold onto. It’s made me think so differently about what I do as a photographer and as a parent.

Photos aren't just for you now. They're for your kids later. They're for your grandchildren who will ask what you looked like, how you held your baby, how you smiled when they ran toward you.

These moments are priceless. And you’re part of them.

Mom and Dad (before kids) I love seeing these, but I sure do wish I had more of mom after she had us.

So how do you get in front of the camera, even if it feels hard?

Here are a few tips I give my clients in the Plymouth and Wayzata area (and ones I try to remind myself of too):

1. Let go of perfect

Perfection isn’t the goal. Connection is. When I photograph families, I’m not looking for model poses or magazine moments. I’m watching for the way you brush hair out of your child’s eyes. The way your baby grabs your necklace. The way your family laughs when you all cuddle in tight. Those are the memories that matter.

2. Dress in what makes you feel good

You don’t need a whole new wardrobe. Pick something you feel comfortable in and can move around in. Soft fabrics, earthy tones, and layered neutrals photograph beautifully here in Minnesota's natural light, especially at spots like Clifton E. French Park or Wayzata Beach.

3. Trust your photographer

My job is to make you look your best. Natural, relaxed, and genuinely happy. I guide you into flattering light and gentle movement so nothing feels stiff. It’s not about perfect posing. It’s about helping you feel good so you look like you.

4. Do it for your kids

Years from now, they won’t look at a photo and think, “She hadn’t lost the baby weight yet.” They’ll think, “She was there. She loved me so much.” Let that be the legacy.

Ready to be in the frame?

If you’ve been putting off photos because you’re not “photo ready,” this is your reminder: You already are. Whether you live in Plymouth, Minnetonka, or anywhere nearby, I would love to help you get in the frame. Not just for you, but for your whole family.

Let’s create something your kids will hold onto forever.

👉 Get in touch here to book your session.