When I first picked up the camera, I though my job was all about perfect lighting, perfect posing and perfect smiles. Then I became a mom and suddenly, "perfect" looked a lot different.
As a boy mom to three (almost four!) wild, wonderful little ones, motherhood has completely changed the way I see families and the way I photograph them. It's not just about capturing pretty pictures anymore. It's about preserving real life, real moments and real connections.
Here's what motherhood has taught me that helps make me a better photographer:
Patience Is Everything
Before kids, I thought I understood patience. After kids... well, let's just say I've mastered it (for the most part) on a whole new level. I know that kids won't always sit still, smile on cue, or follow the "plan". Instead of fighting that, I've learned to lean into it. Sessions go smoother (and turn out better) when I let kids warm up, explore and show me their personalities.
Embrace the Chaos
My oldest Wyatt, is full of energy. Rambunctious, wild and constantly on the move. And honestly? He's the one who taught me that chaos is beautiful. If you're photographing families, you already know things rarely go exactly as planned. But some of my favorite images have come from those unscripted moments: the tickle fights, the toddler running away mid- shot, the belly laughs no one expected.
Moms Belong in the Photos Too
As moms, we're often the ones behind the camera, capturing every milestone but rarely stepping in front of the lens ourselves. I learned this the hard way when I realized how few photos I had of myself with my boys. That changed everything for me. I make it a priority to ensure the moms I photograph are part of the story. Years from now, your kids won't care if you're hair was messy or if you didn't plan the "perfect" outfit. They'll just be grateful to see you there.
Letting Go of "Perfect"
I'll be the first to admit, husbands (especially mine!) sometimes think family photos have to be "perfect." Everyone smiling, everyone on their best behavior. But kids don't work that way.. and that's not what makes photos meaningful. Perfection isn't the goal; connection is. The little hugs, the silly faces, the way you child grabs your hand without thinking.. those are the moments that tell your family's story.
Every Stage Is Worth Remembering
Watching my boys grow so quickly reminds me how fast each stage passes. The toddler chaos, the sibling bonds, the way they fit so perfectly in your arms, it all changes in what feels like a blink. That's why I approach every session with the mindset that this season deserves to be remembered exactly as it is. Because one day, these "ordinary" moments will mean everything.
Motherhood has shaped me into more than just a photographer, it's made me a storyteller, a memory keeper and someone who can see beauty in the middle of the mess. If you're a photographer who also wears the title of "mama", lean into the lessons your kids are teaching you. They might just make you a better artist than any class or course ever could.
So let's capture your family just as you are right now.. beautiful, real and full of love (rambunctious kiddos and all).
With much love,
Jonna
