Mommy as Photographer

People often ask me if my home is just "full" of photos of my own children. While I certainly do have many cherished favorites up on the walls, I wouldn't say it's overflowing. Like many photographers, I find it incredibly difficult to work with my own children. They are so used to me and my camera that they have absolutely no motivation to cooperate. When it comes time for Portrait Day in my home, the children usually run and hide.

And so was the case recently when I set out to capture my son's Official 3 Year Portrait. I planned ahead of time for two days. I watched the weather channel. I made sure the outfits were clean. I scheduled the afternoon off, immediately after naptime, when he'd be fresh and happy. I talked with him about how much fun we'd have, and how he could make Mommy so happy if he'd cooperate and let me get some photographs of him. I gave him his favorite snack and promised ice cream after the session if he was a good boy. (yes, I bribe my children. I admit it.)

So, just to prove that creation of a portrait takes not only careful planning, skill with light and camera, and the proper setting ... it also takes a willing subject! That was the one element I always seem to be missing when my own children are part of the plan.

Pretending to have a camera just like Mommy. Click. Click.

Saying "Cheese" even though Mommy has asked him not to!

Crying because he doesn't want to take any more "pitchers" ... we have only been shooting for 10 minutes.

And finally ... Daddy arrives home from work, and for one split second ...