I love taking photos of my children. High quality cameras on our smartphones have given us the ability to take decent photographs with amazing accessibility. While it is important to remember to put the phone down sometimes and instead focus on living in the moment, it also means so much to me to be able to look back on the photos and videos from previous months and years and see how much has changed. Kids grow up so quickly! But what happens when you are always the one taking those photos? Will your children be able to look back on those same memories and remember you as a part of them? Because I love taking photos so much, it is often hard to be a part of them and THAT is exactly the point behind The Missing Frame Series.

Ottawa’s Irina Fortey of Irina Fortey Photography came up with the idea for The Missing Frame Series. She was inspired by her own seven year old son after he wondered why his mother was always missing from their family photos. Irina realized she was creating photo memories for herself, and zero for her own children who would want to look back and see their mother laughing and playing with them.

Irina follows my blog and she reached out to me, offering me a chance to participate in The Missing Frame Series. How could I pass up the chance to get in some beautiful photos with my kids? It also inspired me to be brave enough to show my growing belly and share the news that I am expecting a new baby. I had been hesitant to get in photos recently because this is a pregnancy after loss, and that comes with it’s own set of fears and challenges.

Irina shoots in a documentary style that I love. She came into our home (which is far from Pinterest perfect) and made us all look so good by capturing natural photos of the fun and love we share.

There was no unnatural posing and no props involved. Irina took the time to get to know a little about my children and tried to capture their spirit and interests – such as Rowan’s love of movement and her cuddly nature, and Lucas’ love for books and incredible reading ability.

Irina has been taking her Missing Frame Series around Ottawa, taking photos of mothers with their children at up pop-up locations in partnership with local programs such as Mellow Baby and Wigglers and Wobblers Playgroup.

Mothers are also invited to visit her private home studio in Barrhaven. The Missing Frame Series sessions are at no cost to capture. You simply cover the cost of prints or digital packages. You can visit the website here to learn more about the locations and how to get involved.

So fellow mamas, hand over the camera to your husband or someone else and step in front of the lens. You need a chance to be in the photos too. Don’t worry about those postpartum baby hairs framing your face (story of my life), or that you maybe haven’t gotten back to your goal weight, or that you don’t want anyone to see you in a swimsuit. These photos are for you and for your kids and they don’t have to be for anyone else. Your children certainly don’t care what you looked like. In their eyes, you are perfect.