When was the last time you scrolled through your camera roll and realized you weren’t in many of the photos?
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.
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 remember I did this with my kiddos while we had a bubble machine going. In the photos you can see us dodging bubbles, dancing in bubbles, and utterly covered in bubbles. We laughed so hard (and tried not to slip). I even turned on the living room ceiling fan to get the bubbles everywhere in the house and we really laughed when my husband came out asking how in the world a bubble got into the office. It was pure magic!
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 try to remember to do this when we make Christmas cookies every year. We usually get flour everywhere, including on the camera lens, but each delicious stage of the process, including my guidance, is documented.
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!
Not to be on a Christmas train in September, but think about how beautiful it would be to capture you and your littles faces in the reflection of an ornament?? I want to see that!
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! You can see my galleries here)
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.
When I had my maternity pictures taken with my second kiddo, it was an in home session. I loved how comfortable my family and I felt in the process and the versatility of outfit changes if needed, the access to an extra bobby pin, our pantry full of snacks for my toddler, and rooms full of different photo ideas. I absolutely loved it, and every time I am invited to do an in-home session, I feel the family's comfort and natural authenticity too!
The Truth is...
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 @preservedphotographygj if you decide to try one of these ideas, I’d love to see!
Want to learn more about booking a Grand Junction / Western Slope family session with me? Click here to see my galleries
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