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!

Here come the holidays, so let’s talk about photo gifts! Giving presents is an ancient tradition, likely to be as old as humanity itself. Even penguins give each other shiny pebbles to show affection! In this day and age, everyone has an Amazon Wish List ready to go, but to me, it’s the personal gifts that are truly special. And while nowadays you can throw your photos onto any keychain, paperweight, magnet and calendar, it’s the simple statement gifts that often have the biggest impact.

Just like your recipient, simple photo gifts are one of a kind and can’t be replaced. They’re warm, personal, thoughtful, and meaningful. Plus, when you give personalized photo gifts, you’re giving something you created just for the recipient, celebrating their unique personality and the memorable moments that brought you to this holiday season. Ready to start shopping? Check out why I love these simple photo gifts below, and spread some holiday cheer with memories the whole family will love and enjoy! 

Give a Photo Book

In a fast-paced, digital world, there’s nothing quite like a tangible photo book to stop the clock and put your favorite memories right in your recipient’s hands. We all know and love old photo albums, and a custom-printed photo book is the perfect update for 2023! Give a gift that can be shared for generations. Condense your digital albums to the best of the best, and share a thoughtful photo gift that can be opened with love and excitement again and again. Make a family timeline, create a keepsake of a trip or event from the last year, or fill up those pages with all the grandkids. Speaking of grandkids… go with a board book to teach those babies all about their families!

Give a Canvas Print

Like I said, you can throw your photos on just about anything these days. Why not let the images speak for themselves? With the right gallery from a professional photographer, those memories will shine all on their own—no gimmicks, no tchotchkes. Besides, studies have shown that having photo prints in your home brings on a sense of fulfillment and love, promoting positive psychological health. How can you give a better gift than that? A large canvas print of a wedding or family portrait makes a stunning gift that’s simple and elegant, and highlights the brilliance of the photo—and its subjects.

Give Framed Prints

What’s great about giving framed professional prints? Think all the benefits of a canvas, with the added bonus of personal touch and versatility. While a canvas makes a gorgeous statement, framed prints allow you to add your own spin by choosing a unique frame, and it gives the recipient the gift of choice. Showcase these photo gifts at home, in an office, or anywhere else your recipient needs an added reason to smile and reminisce. Another bonus? Photos inside the frame can be swapped out time and time again. But take it from me—invest in professional prints. I know it seems extra, but there’s a reason those convenience store kiosk prints are so cheap. Trust me. Spring for the real ones! Your images deserve the best.

Give a Photo Session

Photo gifts plagued by low–resolution images? Are you more of an experience giver than a giver of things? Give the gift of a photo session! Contact a photographer, choose a package and pay up-front, then leave the details and scheduling up to the recipient. Give the gift of having fun making plans and getting all dressed up, and end up with a gallery of gorgeous professional photos they’ll have (and love) forever. This one is perfect for families, brides- and grooms-to-be, or seniors on their way to graduation! 

For the Best Photo Gifts: Reach out to the Photographer!

Odds are, if your recipient has photos handy, they’ve posted them on social media—and tagged their photographer. Reach out and ask if they have a gift store, or any favorite vendors or discount codes for certain products. This business creates a lot of connections, and we’re all hoping to make your gifts matter this holiday season. We’re also pretty knowledgeable when it comes to what showcases our work best—and what’s popular among clients!