Mommy and me photography sessions are rising in popularity, and it’s easy to see why! If you’re a mom, you already know two things: 1. You have PLENTY of photos of your kids, and 2. You’re not in any of them. Let’s face it, we’re almost always the ones behind the camera, making sure everyone else is taken care of, and all the memories are absolutely magical. But don’t forget—they’re your memories, too! So let’s talk mommy and me photography: What it is, why it’s worth it, and how to pull it off.

What is Mommy and Me Photography?

A mommy and me photo shoot captures the bond between a mother and her children, resulting in images that are both beautiful and timeless. It’s a snapshot in time of your unique and precious relationship, no matter how old your babies are. Think family photo session, specifically focused on moms and their kiddos. Simply put, it’s exactly what it sounds like. But more than that, it’s a way to honor the women who are busy molding the next generation, allowing them to be seen, celebrated and appreciated for all of their love and sacrifice. 

Why should I book a session?

Okay, if you’re a mom, you already know three things, and the third is that your kids are growing up WAY too fast. Mommy and me photography will capture your relationship exactly as it is now, and make it last forever. You’re going to want these images, and believe me, so will your children! Mommy and me photo sessions result not just in images, but in heirlooms that can be passed down to the next generations, used in future wedding slideshows, framed for gifts or ornaments, and even displayed around your home. 

Moms aside, giving a mommy and me photography session can be perfect for Mother’s Day, birthdays or Christmas. Not only are you giving an experience, but you’re providing the opportunity to bond, and the excuse to get dressed up! Not to mention she’ll get a gallery of images that will make her heart swell. 

How can I pull off a great experience? 

Great mommy and me photography comes down to two factors: Location and wardrobe. Whether you want the vibe to be cozy or adventurous, the most important thing for both elements is that everyone is comfortable. 

If you and your kids are happiest playing together at home, then schedule your shoot there! If you’d prefer a picturesque, outdoor setting, Colorado has plenty of spaces to choose from. My best advice for choosing your outfits? Believe it or not, YOU come first! I know we don’t hear that a lot as moms, but let’s be honest, your kids will look perfect in anything! Make sure you choose a weather or seasonally appropriate outfit that YOU feel comfortable and confident wearing, then base the other outfits from there. 

Motherhood will change your life forever. In fact, it changes everything! Make sure you remember all the special moments within the journey. Whether you’re new to the gig or your babies have left the nest, there’s nothing like a mother’s love. Let’s capture the moments together!

I’ve made the case for professional photos, and even a case for why you should invest in framed prints. But did you know there are tons of other uses for your images? Sure, having photos around your home can boost your mood and keep your decor current, but did you know there’s even plenty of unconventional uses for your company headshots? That’s right! So let’s dive in, because we’ve got a lot to cover…

Wedding/Engagement Photos

1. Make an Album or Personalized Photo Book

I’ve made entire posts about this before, but I can’t stress this enough: When you pass your wedding and engagement photos down to future generations, you’re going to want them in print—not on a screen! The digital age is here to stay, but there are some things that will always stand the test of time and be worth the investment. Tangible proof of your love story is definitely one of those things! And with amazing sites like Mixbook, Shutterfly, Blurb and Snapfish, making your albums and photo books can be as much fun as sharing them. 

2. Personalize Your Thank You Cards

Weddings and engagements have no shortage of professional photos—and events that celebrate the happy couple! Whether you’re wrapping up your bridal shower, engagement party, bachelor/bachelorette nights or even your wedding reception, using your photos can take thank you notes from a formality to personal keepsakes for everyone who had a hand in your union.  

3. Create a Video Slideshow

Do you love the professional photos from your engagement session? Make a digital slideshow to play on a loop at your wedding reception! Want to get more mileage out of your gorgeous wedding photos? Save them to a video slideshow you can play or share forever—you can even set the slides to your song! Most wedding packages come with a complete digital album, but sharing the whole thing might seem like a bit much. That’s why I suggest making your own highlight reel of sorts—especially if you skipped a videographer! 

Professional Photos of your Family

1. Customize Your Holiday Cards

Whether you’re sending them to your family, friends or associates, sharing holiday cards is a great way to connect with the people in your life—and spread a little joy and cheer in what can be a stressful and distracting time of year! Using professional photos to create your cards can make a card a personal greeting, AND update your loved ones on any changes to your family. Kids grow up quickly! Keeping your annual holiday cards can track and document the years in a perfectly festive way.

2. Give Personal Gifts

Speaking of holidays, there are SO many personalized gifts you can give—especially if you have recent professional photos handy! You can check out a few of my favorites here, but trust me, you’ll be hard-pressed to find grandparents or teachers who don’t love a good calendar, photo book or framed print. Give the gift only you can give! It’s definitely worth having photos for.

3. Make A Collage

When you take professional photos of your family, odds are, you’ll end up with too many favorites to choose just one to frame. Photographers try their best to capture all kinds of connections, from just mom and dad to every combination of family members possible. Everyone has a unique and special relationship, and it’s so much fun to tell each story on film. So why not tell the whole story with a framed collage or gallery wall? It might feel messy at first, but if you use photos from the same session, it will all come together perfectly.

Headshots

1. Update Your Website

In this day and age, if you don’t have a personal webpage, your company probably does—and each one is likely equipped with an “About Me” or “Contact” page. Adding headshots to these pages can give your audience or your clients a face to put with your name, products or services, and using professional photos can really set you apart.

2. Keep Social Media Current

Do you have a LinkedIn account or a Facebook Business Page? What about using Instagram for your marketing? You’ll need a profile picture for those accounts, or at the very least a header image. Professional photos can make your accounts clean, current, and professional, which can go just as far with your audience as the page content itself. 

3. Modernize Business Prints

Business cards might seem like a thing of the past, but let’s face it, they’ll never entirely go away. Bring yours to the present with professional photos! The card itself will document your name and contact information, but your headshot can allow people to better remember their interactions with you long after the networking meeting, corporate event, or conference. Does your business have brochures, fliers, promotions or advertisements? Headshots can be used there, too, to give customers a more personal look at who they’re working with.

Don’t worry, seniors. I didn’t forget about you! In fact, you have a whole post with all my favorite ways to use your senior portraits—from grad party announcements to cute dorm decor. 

Ready to book your session? Reach out at any time! You never know when you’ll need (or want!) some professional photos.