This spring, I picked up my little point-and-shoot film camera and started documenting our days—messy, quiet, joyful, ordinary days. As a photographer, I’m often behind the lens capturing other people’s families, their sacred connections, and the milestones they want to preserve. But when it comes to my own family, especially being in the frame myself? That’s still a challenge.

In this latest roll of spring photos, I’m not in a single one. Not physically, anyway. But as I looked through the scans, I saw something that felt just as important: I saw my voice. The way I see light hitting a tree. The way I linger on my child’s hand reaching for a wildflower. The quiet details of everyday life that I’d normally rush past.

Why I Chose Film—and What It Taught Me

Film has been a game-changer. Not just because of the nostalgic tones or dreamy softness, but because it forces me to slow down. You don’t get unlimited chances with film. Each shot matters. Every time I lift the camera to my eye, I have to be still, really see what’s in front of me, and wait for that magical moment to arrive.

In a world that often feels like it’s moving too fast—especially as a parent—choosing to shoot film has been an unexpected act of mindfulness. It’s become a rhythm of pause and presence. Unlike digital photography, where you can fire off 20 shots in a second, film invites you to breathe, to observe, and to trust that one thoughtful frame will be enough.

I remember doing this as a kid, carefully rationing my film, knowing every click came with a cost. Now, I find that same intention returning, not out of scarcity, but from a deep desire to really witness life as it unfolds.

The Importance of Being in the Frame

Even though I wasn’t in the photos, this latest roll of film reminded me just how important it is to exist in our family’s story. Not just behind the camera, but in front of it. That’s why I always tell my clients—and now myself, too—that hiring another artist to document your family is essential.

Even as a photographer, I need someone else to capture the moments I’m in. To see me the way my family does. To record the little expressions and connections that I might miss in the rush of life or the desire to always be the one documenting.

Because, let’s be honest—we all deserve to be remembered in the stories we’re helping create.

A Season of Slowness

This spring has been about more than just film. I’ve also (bravely!) given up caffeine. I’m leaning into slowness wherever I can find it. Whether it’s quiet mornings, long walks, or thoughtful photography, I’m craving more space to notice, to feel, and to be present.

And that’s really what this blog is about—not just photography, but how we choose to see our lives. Whether it’s through a grainy frame of film or the gentle decision to pause before a shot, I want to keep remembering that beauty is always there. We just have to slow down enough to catch it.

Ready to Be in the Frame?

If you’re a parent who’s always behind the camera (or never knows what to wear for a session, or just keeps putting it off until “life slows down”), let this be your sign: you deserve to be documented, too.

Let’s make space to slow down and capture your family’s real, beautiful moments—with you in them.
Reach out today to book a storytelling session that honors your pace, your people, and your presence.