I've written a lot recently about the importance of us moms getting into pictures with our children. It's equally important, of course, for dads to get in the frame too! In our family, this happens all the time since I'm so enthusiastic about documenting our family life. But in many families, Dad may be the family photographer. Or perhaps Dad just isn't comfortable being in front of the camera. In honor of Father's Day, here are some of my favorite pictures of awesome Dads in the picture with their kids.
Regardless of who might be the primary family photographer, I think both moms and dads can see the value in parents being in pictures with their kids when they look back on photos like these that show the connection, love, and devotion that is so special between parents and children. One great thing about documentary, candid photography is that it takes the formality and discomfort out of family photos. When all you have to do is what you'd be doing anyway - enjoying time with your family - you tend to forget about the camera and beautiful real life moments happen.
Having such visual reminders of these ordinary, but special moments months and years from now when our children have grown and changed so much helps us remember a time and place that, while gone, is just as meaningful as it was when we were living it. As Rose Kennedy said, "Life isn't a matter of milestones, but of moments."
It can be easy to underestimate how much the everyday matters, but when you have images that capture the love and connection of your family, you can easily remember the value of such time well spent.
I love documenting these moments for parents to look back on, but what makes my heart smile even more is thinking about the children having these moments documented to look back on. Moments they may have been too little to remember. Moments that allow for glimpses into who they were from the very beginning. And glimpses into who their parents were when they were children and maybe too young to realize how special that time was.
Happy Father's Day to all the awesome Dad's out there young and old!
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