Celebrating Motherhood Through Family Photography | Essex Mums

Embracing Your Journey: Why You Shouldn't Let Insecurities Stop You from Family Photoshoots

Okay, let's get real for a moment. Our minds can be assholes, especially when it comes to how we perceive ourselves. As mums, we often find ourselves questioning our appearance, especially after having children. But here's the truth: self-worth and confidence should never be determined by a particular size or societal standards of beauty. We all have insecurities, regardless of our shape or size. It's time to silence those negative thoughts and embrace the incredible journey of motherhood.

Acknowledging the Postpartum Body Journey:

Oh, the wonders of motherhood and the rollercoaster ride our bodies take! It's like a wild adventure that happens at such lightning speed, it can be challenging to navigate them positively, leaving us bewildered. Seriously, who prepared us for the post-birth sensation of an empty belly? It's like a deflated balloon that leaves us both in awe and confusion. But hey, let's not dwell on the strange and unexpected. The truth is, it’s totally normal to experience a whirlwind of emotions, swinging from empowered boss babe to delicate fragility. It's a beautiful mess that defines the incredible journey of motherhood. So, let's embrace it, quirks and all, and capture those incredible moments without hesitation. No more hiding or dodging the camera. It's time to say this is me and I’m bloody awesome and celebrate the wonder that is you!

Navigating the Postpartum Mindset:

Postpartum life is filled with sleep deprivation, breastfeeding challenges, healing from birth, hormonal fluctuations, and more. It's no wonder our minds can feel frazzled and overwhelmed. In this journey, it's crucial to be kind to yourself. You deserve patience, understanding, and self-compassion as you adjust to this new phase of life.

So how can you shift those negative thoughts and embrace your incredible postpartum body? Here are some helpful resources and advice that I have compiled which have made a difference for many mums (including myself):

1. Action for Happiness: Visit the Action for Happiness website (https://actionforhappiness.org/) for actionable steps, resources, and practical advice to improve your mindset and overall well-being.

2. The Happy Place: Explore The Happy Place website (https://www.happyplaceofficial.co.uk/) for an uplifting dose of joy and a collection of resources to help balance your mind and find happiness.

3. Take Time for Yourself: Prioritize self-care by indulging in activities that bring you joy. Listen to your favorite music, move your body, and savor a nourishing meal in peace. Remember, even small moments can help reset your mindset.

4. Be Kind to Yourself: Practice intentional self-compassion by reframing the way you speak about yourself. You wouldn't criticize another woman, so why do it to yourself? Treat yourself with the same kindness and love you show others.

5. Write a Note to Your Future Self: Use platforms like FutureMe (https://www.futureme.org) to write a heartfelt note to your future self. Acknowledge the magnificent journey your body has been on and celebrate the strength and resilience it represents.

Celebrating Your Journey:

Please don't let insecurities hold you back from documenting and celebrating your family's precious moments. Embrace your journey, shift your mindset, and remember that you are deserving of love, happiness, AND beautiful memories with YOU in them! It's time to show up, be proud, and create lasting images that reflect the incredible woman and mother you are.

Above everything else, remember that it is not vain, self-obsessed, or selfish to want pictures of yourself pregnant or with your children. You should be incredibly proud of the life you have created, and your journey is unique and worthy of celebration. Embrace the love, joy, and beauty that surrounds you, and capture those moments to hold close to your heart.

I totally get that stepping in front of the camera can make even the bravest souls feel a tad nervous. I mean, we're all human, right? But let me assure you, as a fellow mum of two, I understand the jitters and vulnerability that come with it. I've designed my sessions to be the epitome of relaxation and heartfelt moments and we'll focus on capturing the genuine connections and bonds that make your family unique. It's all about creating a space where your story naturally unfolds, allowing you to show up as your true, authentic selves. Because, let's be honest, those are the moments you'll cherish when these incredible days become a whirlwind blur. So, take a deep breath, trust the process, and let's create some magic together.

I hope this blog post helps a little bit with feeling more confident in your sessions!