Last night, I encountered a blog post by Sarah Williams titled “The Mother Remains in the Picture.” In her writing, Sarah expresses her reluctance to appear in family photographs: “I am present in my children’s lives, yet I have very few images of us together. One day, I won’t be around — and I can’t predict if that day is tomorrow or decades away. I want my children to have memories of me, to see the love in my eyes and the way I cherished them. I may not be perfect in appearance or in love, but I am perfectly their mother.”
I had a similar realization a few years ago. Family members and friends filled our photo albums, but I was often absent. I avoided the camera, concerned about my appearance—my arms, my stomach, my hair. It was as though I had never participated in those joyful moments captured in photos.
I’m pleased to share that I have made a conscious effort to be included in photographs with my children, and it has been transformative. Images of me with my kids now adorn our home, a delightful surprise!
Overcoming Insecurities
So, how did I overcome my insecurities? Did I wake up loving my reflection? Did I suddenly possess a surge of confidence? No, my friends. I discovered a simple technique: “grab a kid,” and it can be life-changing.
Gone are the days of taking photos side by side with my children. Now, when I smile for the camera, I envelop them in my arms. Not only does this capture my affection, but it also conveniently conceals my perceived flaws. Are your hips a concern? Hold a child on one. Stomach rolls? Place a child on your lap. Want to hide that double chin? Lean cheek to cheek with your little one while gazing at the camera. Want to cover everything? Just give them a big hug and focus on your faces.
Trust me, it’s effective. Take, for instance, a photo of me and my daughter, Emma, during our recent trip to Seattle. We look joyful, and I’m smiling because I know she’s hiding my trouble spots. What’s not to love about that?
Embrace the Moment
So, take the plunge and be in those photos with your children. You’ll be grateful you did, and in the years to come, they will cherish those memories too. If you’re not ready to confront your flaws, simply grab a kid, squeeze them tightly, and say “cheese.” It never fails.
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Conclusion
In summary, embracing your role as a mother in photographs is vital for creating lasting memories. Use your children as a delightful prop to boost your confidence and capture the love you share.