You know what’s missing from your camera roll? 

YOU.

If you’re anything like me, you’ve got a camera roll full of adorable pictures of your kids—but barely any proof that you were there too. 

And let’s be real, a quick selfie with your toddler smashing their face against yours (cute, but chaotic) isn’t the only way to make it happen.

But getting in more photos with your kids doesn’t have to be awkward, complicated, or time-consuming!

In fact, it can be fun, easy, and totally natural! 

Here are 6 creative ways to capture those everyday moments with your little ones—without relying on selfies.

It is so easy to just snap a quick picture of your children playing together, or telling your husband to turn around for a picture with the kids. But I CHERISH the ones that I get to be in too! It is a constant joke between my husband and I of the photos he takes of me and the girls Vs. the ones he get to be in. But y’all!!! That needs to change!!

Set Up a Timer & Play Together

Instead of staged, stiff smiles, capture real, playful moments with your kids.

What to do: 

Prop up your phone or camera on a shelf, a chair, or a tripod. 

Set the self-timer (10 seconds) or use a burst timer to take multiple photos in a row. 

Then, start playing! Have a tickle fight, jump on the bed, or let them tackle you into a pile of pillows.

Pro tip: If your camera has voice control, you can just say “Smile!” or “Capture!” and it will snap photos while you’re in the moment.

This captures natural movement, real laughs, and the way your kids see you—fun, present, and full of love.

I get to homeschool my kids, and I am with them all day! There are SO many fun moments that I don’t want to miss! I want my kids to remember all of the laughs in between! This timer allows me to hold this moment still for just a minute!

Use a Tripod for Everyday Moments

You don’t have to wait for a special moment to get in the frame—everyday life is worth capturing too.

What to do: 

Set up a tripod (or use a stack of books as a phone stand) in a spot where you and your kids naturally spend time—like the kitchen, playroom, or couch.

Imagine photos of you and the kids prepping dinner together or doing a puzzle! 

Turn on the video mode or use a camera app with a remote shutter.

Pro tip: Set a weekly reminder to take a family photo in a different everyday moment (snuggles, bedtime stories, mealtime). 

After a few weeks, you’ll have a beautiful collection of real-life memories.

These are the moments your kids will actually remember—the cozy snuggles, messy playtimes, and bedtime giggles! 

I love to be in the kitchen! I just prop up my phone on my recipe holder and have it record or take photos of my children and I cooking together!

Capture Your Reflections

An easy way to get in the photo without setting anything up!

What to do: Look for reflections throughout your day—mirrors, windows, puddles, or even the oven door. 

Next time you’re brushing teeth together, playing dress-up, or watching the rain, snap a quick picture of your reflection.

Pro tip: Try a sidewalk puddle reflection at golden hour (right before sunset) for a dreamy, artistic effect.

This is a creative way to be in the frame without needing a tripod or timer!

I grew up in Sunny AZ! I remember in high school it being the “it” thing to take pictures of my friends and I’s shadows as we were walking. Or maybe I just thought it was the it thing… Either way! I still LOVE those photos!

Hire a Photographer for a “Day in the Life” Session

You deserve to be in your family’s story.

What to do: Find a documentary-style photographer (like me!)

Instead of stiff poses, I’ll capture real moments—making breakfast, playing on the floor, or cuddling on the couch.

This removes the stress of setting up your own shots and gives you authentic, emotion-filled photos that tell your family’s real story.

After my last baby, I had my husband (who is also a photographer) take documentary type photos of me and my children. Even though the tears were real (from the baby and myself-thanks hormones!), I treasure those photos of real day to day life!

Years from now, you won’t care if your hair was messy or if the house wasn’t perfect—you’ll just be glad to have photos that include you. 

Now you have easy, fun ways to make sure you’re in the frame, not just behind it!

Tag me on social if you decide to try one of these ideas, I’d love to see!

Want to learn more about booking a Columbia, SC family session with me? Let’s Chat!