Every parent knows the importance of capturing those fleeting moments of childhood. When my son, Leo, was just 9 months old, we decided to invest in professional photos. I reached out to an old college friend, Max, who was starting his photography career and offered us an incredibly affordable rate. Despite our initial skepticism—after all, we had smartphones for casual snaps—I knew we had little to lose. We met Max at a nearby park, and he began capturing candid moments: Leo perched on a tree branch, giggling during a diaper change, crawling around with excitement, and even wearing his dad’s oversized sunglasses.
The results were breathtaking, and from that point on, we prioritized annual photography sessions. We’ve worked with three different photographers, all of whom have become friends. While one photographer has a penchant for posed shots—which we don’t typically prefer—the other two excel at following my kids around as they play, capturing their true essence. Those photos are priceless.
Sure, I take plenty of posed pictures myself. I often line the kids up on Sundays against a nice backdrop, snapping photos of them dressed in their Sunday best. I’m always pulling out my phone and shouting, “Look at Mama!” These moments are sweet and showcase their personalities, but they simply can’t compare to the spontaneous joy captured by a skilled photographer.
During one memorable session, my longtime friend, Amy, who has a flair for the artistic, met us at my parents’ farm. My kids decided to go shirtless, which made for some delightful shots: Leo in his playful skull shorts and boots, his brother, Noah, savoring ripe blackberries, and Leo striking a heroic pose with a stick, resembling a young Robin Hood. Amy even managed to take a few lovely pictures of me holding the baby, showcasing my best side. This is what you pay for—the knowledge of light, angles, and moments we don’t see ourselves.
Our latest photo session was equally magical. We gathered at a scenic park, dressed the boys in crisp button-downs, and handed them nets for creek exploration. They chased minnows, splashed water everywhere, swung on swings, and climbed trees. Upon seeing the preview, I realized these were the memories I wanted to cherish—not the staged ones but the vibrant, candid moments of my children in their natural element, running wild in the sunshine.
While I understand that cost can be a concern, if you can swing it, finding a photographer who resonates with your family’s style is essential. Consider reaching out to students from local universities who are building their portfolios; you might find someone who has a great eye for photography at a more affordable price.
And for those brave enough, get in the picture! Years down the line, your kids will treasure images of you engaging with them, regardless of how you might feel about your appearance in the moment. I’ve let Max capture me pushing my kids on swings, despite my self-consciousness.
Our walls are adorned with these beautiful memories—pictures that have even made it onto our holiday cards. I cherish the stunning montages of Amy’s work displayed prominently throughout our home. These photographs give me a fresh perspective on my children, revealing details I might otherwise overlook.
Investing in professional photography might seem extravagant in the age of smartphones, but the memories are invaluable. We are eternally grateful for these snapshots of childhood, which we will always hold dear. For more insights on parenting and family life, check out this excellent resource on pregnancy for further information.