You know how it is—I’m usually the one snapping away in family photos. Sure, part of it is that I adore photography and upgraded to a fancy DSLR a while back, but there’s a deeper reason. Honestly, it’s my struggle with self-image. I can’t help but notice my shiny cheeks, my weight, my round nose, and my less-than-perfect smile. Each time I see a photo, I have a mini meltdown: “Is that what I really look like?” It’s a mental rollercoaster that makes it hard to enjoy the beautiful moments captured in those pictures.
While I’ve battled these insecurities for years, something shifted when I went through the countless photos of my daughter in her early years. There she was, living life to the fullest—playing in leaves, holding toys, and just being her adorable self—while I was always behind the camera. I realized how important it was for me to be part of those memories. So, here are five practical tips I’ve picked up along the way to help you embrace being photographed, even when every fiber of your being is telling you to run away:
- Look Directly at the Camera.
I know it’s scary, but try to face the camera with confidence. Trust me; you’ll look better when you do. - Hide Behind Others in Group Shots.
This tip comes from my friend Emma. If you’re feeling self-conscious, wrap your arms around a kid or a friend in front of you. Voila! Instant concealment for those areas you’re not too fond of. - Rock Some Sunglasses.
There’s just something about slipping on a pair of shades that instantly boosts your cool factor. Plus, they can hide those insecurities we all have—like shiny cheeks and a crooked nose. - Go Wild with Your Expressions.
If you’re not feeling photogenic, make silly faces instead! My son recently insisted we take a family selfie, and instead of worrying about how I looked, I joined the fun. The result? One of my favorite pictures ever! - Practice Selfies in Secret.
This one’s tough, but worth it. Take selfies until you find angles and expressions you like. You can always delete them later, but knowing what works for you will help when someone else is behind the camera.
These tips can help you face your fears without needing years of therapy, and your kids will thank you for it. If you’re interested in learning more about making memories in your family, check out this other blog post on home insemination. Also, if you’re looking for ways to boost fertility, this resource is a great place to start. And for comprehensive information on pregnancy and IVF, I highly recommend this Healthline article.
In summary, don’t let the fear of being photographed hold you back. Embrace the moment with these tips, and remember that every picture is a chance to capture precious memories with your loved ones.