I’ve heard all of the excuses for moms not getting in the photos with their kids — “I want to lose more weight” or “I didn’t do my makeup” or “I’m the one who takes the photos.” I get it, moms. I get it. It’s easier to just take the photos of just your kiddos yourselves and not have to worry about judging yourself in the final products. But, remember this — your kiddos aren’t judging your outfit or weight or makeup or eye circles or anything that you’re fixated on. They’re feeling your hugs and hearing your laughter and absorbing all that love.

One day, they will look back on photos wishing for more photos with you in them — reminders of the memories and moments from their childhood.

My mother passed away when I was 10 years old. It has made me the person I am in many, many ways. I cherish the mementos and memories I have of her, but, honestly? I wish I had more physical memories. I wish there were more photos. My mom always took the photos and I love how many there are of me as a baby and a kiddo and during all those early childhood years. But, there’s a very small handful of my mom and I together and I can’t tell you how many more I wish there were.

So, mommas — forget the worries and the self-esteem and all the other things keeping you behind the camera.

Hand the camera to your husbands. Use the self-timer options. Try for more selfies. Just get in there. Get in there with your babies and let the camera capture that love.