As a mom, we go through it all-the highs, lows, and everything in-between. It’s not common for moms to give themselves enough credit (gotta love imposter syndrome). Being a mom is no joke! Some days are harder than others, but I wouldn’t change it for the world. The definition of a mom states: “a woman who loves unconditionally, leads by example, and puts others before herself.” Life with a toddler and another one on the way can be described as “GO, GO, GO “- you never really get a break until your little one’s head hits the pillow, haha! (raise your hand if you love bedtime). It didn’t even hit me how fast Leni is growing up until we went on our family vacation to Maui. Seeing her dressed up in her Hawaiian outfit, playing at the beach, and being an awesome older cousin made me realize how precious time is. When this mama reached out and said she wanted a shoot with just her littles, I was ecstatic. Who doesn’t love a good mommy and me photo shoot- especially when they are as cute as this!! Capturing the genuine moments of this mom’s love for her girls was incredibly special, fun, and girly! The matching swimsuits, scenery, and lighting couldn’t have been perfect. This session gave the ultimate summer family photo inspiration and will be making an appearance on my Pinterest boards. If you’re thinking of doing a mini “mommy & me” photo shoot- this is your sign to do it! You won’t regret it! This session was a total dreamboat, and I decided to take what I noticed from it and give all you mamas some tips and pointers for your next mommy and me photoshoot!

Tip #1: Why do a Mommy and Me photoshoot

Often we tell ourselves “better days are ahead,” but in reality, these ARE the better days! As a mom, I’m trying to be more present in the small, everyday things, soaking up all the precious moments I sometimes take for granted. With baby #2 due in August, I’m spending as much time as possible with my Leni girl before we turn into a family of three! Time really does slip through our hands faster than we’d like, and next thing you know, your baby is driving your car and getting ready for prom! I think it’s important to capture you and your child during their different stages of life-giving you something that keeps that moment at a standstill that can be cherished forever. A mommy and me photoshoot is the perfect way to do that! This is also a little reminder for me that I need to do a mother-daughter photoshoot with my little one, too, because the next thing you know, they are “too cool” to take pictures with you!

Tip #2– What to wear to your mommy and me photoshoot

There are a couple of ways you can go about this. If you’re aiming for a more realistic approach, wear items that you and your child feel comfortable in! No one likes being dressed in something that doesn’t represent them, so wear clothes that depict who you are as a mom and who your child is. If you want a more styled shoot with a particular theme, I suggest picking a color palette that matches your vibe and then using that as a guide and reference. That is the easiest way to stick to your inspiration and get the photo results you are hoping for. I would also take into account the location you are shooting at and try to match the clothes to the setting. 

A few of my favorite kids clothing brands

I linked below a couple of kids clothing brands that I like:

Zara

H&M

Old Navy

Kate Quinn

Amazon

Tip #3– Where to shoot your mommy and me photoshoot

This is entirely personal preference! Some moms prefer a more intimate setting and request that pictures be taken in the comfort of their home. Others may want a more playful atmosphere and choose to shoot at the beach, forest, mountains, etc. As I mentioned previously- it is all personal preference! I would figure out your purpose for the pictures and then take it from there (are these just for safekeeping, family cards, prints to hang on the wall). Once you know the intention for the shoot, that will help guide you through the rest of the details.

Tip #4: Have FUN with it!

If you go into your mommy and me photoshoot expecting it to turn out perfect, rethink your whole mindset! Sometimes your kids don’t want to cooperate as much as you’d like, and that’s normal! If you go into the shoot with the attitude of having fun and being authentic, you will reap the best results. Kids usually work better when things are organic and not forced. Be playful with them, and they will be more willing to smile for the camera!

For more information about family photo sessions, visit my website and lets shoot!