Behind The Lens

When Owen was born I knew that I wanted to have lots of pictures of him. Well, between life and the wallet getting in the way, I didn't manage to get many quality pictures throughout his first two years of life. Most of the collection of photos we have are from the iPhone - which I guess isn't too bad if you have one of the newer models (who am I kidding it sucks). When I was pregnant with Sawyer I told Reed I had to have a good camera this time around, and it was then I got my first DSLR.

I've been learning the ropes, and doing lots of practice shooting around the house. The other night I had the pleasure of working with Kayleigh Kannady, of Kayleigh Kannady Photography. From being the Major of our high school drill team to a talented artist behind the camera, she's definitely someone I have always looked up to. Kayleigh is such a genuine person and truly loves what she does - which makes her not too shabby of a mentor either.  We were lucky enough to have her photograph our last family of three pictures right before Christmas. Every time the camera comes out I hope my pictures turn out half as decent as hers do when I shoot.

One thing I have noticed is that the more pictures I post of my family, the less I see of me. Nobody ever sees the person behind the lens, and quite frankly it's sad! There are so many more pictures of just Reed with the babies, you would think he was a single dad. I can't be mad at anyone else for it though, as it's partially my fault. I have this vision in my head of how I need to look, and those last few pounds of baby weight are just kind of lingering, which means I don't put myself in pictures. But I will tell you, Owen is 2 years old and Sawyer is already almost 5 months old and I'm regretting it - BIG TIME. Don't wait until you feel comfortable for pictures (it might take longer than you expected) because when you and your family look back it'll be sad when mom is nowhere to be found.

Throughout this learning process there is one thing that I am sure of - I never want miss the moments. The silly dance parties in the bedroom or fort building in the living room, those "when you least expect it" unposed & unplanned pictures always turn out the best. I really enjoy taking pictures of my kids, and capturing those still frame memories that will last forever. Who knows, maybe one day I'll even venture into doing the same for others! *wink wink*

(the one time I'm in front of the lens & I wasn't even ready)