I Hate How I Look in Photos” — Why You Should Be in the Frame Anyway
- Jem Harwood
- Jun 7
- 2 min read
“I Hate How I Look in Photos” — A Note to Every Parent Who Feels This Way
It’s something I hear all the time.
“I’d love family photos, but I hate how I look in pictures.” Or “I’ll book a shoot once I’ve lost a bit of weight, sorted my hair out, or feel more confident.”
And if you’ve ever said something like that, I want to say this with love: You are not alone.
So many parents feel this way. The truth is, your children doesn't see what you see.
They don’t focus on the extra bit of tummy or the fine lines that only you notice. They see the way your eyes light up when you look at them. They feel safe in your arms. They remember how it felt to be with you .... not what you looked like.

Photos Aren’t Just About Looking Good. They’re About Remembering
Your children will grow up, and what they’ll treasure most is seeing you there, in the photos, part of the memory.
Not always behind the camera. Not missing from the albums. There. Present. Smiling. Loving.
When you step in front of the camera, you're giving them something priceless.

What If You Don’t Know How to Pose or Feel Awkward?
That’s totally okay. You don’t have to perform or “get it right.”
My sessions are gentle, relaxed, and all about connection. I’ll give you small prompts if you need them, but mostly, I just let you be you. You’re not expected to pose like a model or fake a smile, we focus on the real moments: the squeeze of a hand, a shared joke, a quiet cuddle.
And I always, always photograph with kindness, flattering light, angles that feel natural, and moments that feel true to you.

You Deserve to Be in the Frame
Your children love you just as you are and you are worthy of being in the photo, now, not “once you’ve changed.”
When you look back on these images, you won’t be picking yourself apart. You’ll be thankful you captured the moment. And so will they.

If this spoke to you, maybe it’s time to be seen. Not just by the camera but by the people who love you most.
Let’s capture something real. Something full of love. Something you’ll be so glad you didn’t put off.
Feel free to drop me a message if you’d like to chat or book your session.
You deserve to be part of the memory, too
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