27 Nov Embracing Every Moment: The Importance of Annual Family Photos for Mothers, Beyond Body Image | Austin Boudoir Photography

As a boudoir photographer, I am intimately familiar with the power of a photograph to capture more than just an image – it captures a story, a feeling, a moment in time. This is especially true for family photos. However, I’ve observed a concerning trend among mothers: the hesitation to be photographed due to body image concerns. It’s crucial to address how body negativity and societal pressures, like fat phobia, can deter mothers from participating in these invaluable family memories.

The Impact of Body Image on Family Memories

Body image issues can deeply affect a mother’s willingness to be part of family photos. Concerns about weight, appearance, and societal standards of beauty can lead to a reluctance to step in front of the camera. This hesitancy robs not only the mother of the chance to see herself through her family’s loving eyes but also deprives children of precious memories with their mother. Yes, they’ll absolutely appreciate photos of themselves as children…but they’ll definitely want their Mama included in some of those photos too!

The Legacy Goes Beyond Appearances

Annual family photos serve as a visual legacy, capturing the essence of our family’s journey through life. They should be a celebration of love, connection, and the shared experiences that define our family’s story. When we let body negativity dictate our participation in these photos, we inadvertently send a message that our physical appearance holds more value than our presence and role in the family.

A Message of Self-Love and Acceptance

By embracing our presence in photos, regardless of our shape, size, or societal standards, we teach our children a powerful lesson in self-love and acceptance. We show them that the essence of our family’s joy and love isn’t captured in “perfect” figures but in the genuine emotions and connections that these photos preserve.

Sharing My Own Personal Journey

To help other mamas overcome similar challenges, I want to share a personal experience. Just a few weeks ago, we had these family photos taken by our awesome family photographer, Michelle. Being completely vulnerable here, when I first opened the folder of the photos this morning, my initial reaction was to scrutinize myself – fixating on my double chin, my wide face, my body size, and other perceived imperfections. It’s a reaction many of us have, conditioned by relentless societal standards shoved down our throats multiple times a day. However, I consciously got curious about those thoughts and asked myself, ‘Why is a double chin bad? What makes having a round/full face wrong?’ I realized there’s nothing wrong with me, my chin or my face. It’s just what my body happens to look like. I pushed past all of that negative self-talk. I realized that these so-called “flaws” are inconsequential to the people who matter most – especially my children. They don’t see the imperfections; they see their mama, who they love unconditionally. By shifting my focus, I began to see the photos for what they truly are – beautiful captures of love and family moments. Quickly, I began to fall absolutely in love with each and every photo. They represent more than just physical appearances. They embody the joy, love, and connection we share as a sweet little family.

Annual family photos are an invaluable part of our family’s history. They should celebrate where we are at this moment in our lives, embracing every aspect of our journey, including our bodies. Let’s challenge the norms of body negativity and fat phobia. Let’s be present in our family photos, not just for ourselves, but as a beacon of self-acceptance and love for our children. Remember, these photos will be a source of comfort, love, and memories for them long after we are gone.

Note: If you’ve been holding back from being in photos due to body image concerns, let this serve as encouragement and a sign for you to BOOK THE SESSION. You are beautiful as you are, and your family will cherish those memories with you in them, now and forever. My family photographer, and one of my very best friends, Michelle is incredible. As a huge plus — she is amazing with neurodiverse kiddos — both of my ND kids have always absolutely adored her. Check out her website by CLICKING HERE. Tell her I sent ya!