A Mother’s Day gift that lasts (way!) longer than flowers

By Leila Sutton On 05/04/11 · Leave a Comment · In Children, Family Photos, Holiday Photos, Mother's Day, Photo Tips

My memory isn’t perfect but some images have enough staying power in my mind to last a lifetime. I love the childhood photo my mom captured of me at age three catching light. I like to imagine it was an early predictor of my future path as a photographer!

(photo by my mom, Germaine Sutton)

I’m sure you have photos in your mental database that stand out for you too. Images, after all, have the power to evoke and create lasting memories. So, I can think of no better gift on Mother’s Day than a portrait of you, your kids or the whole gang. Depending on who is reading, this may even be a gift for yourself (mom) or your wife (dad)!

What can you do to make your Mother’s Day gift one of these ‘stand out’ shots?

1. Get in close for a stronger emotional connection. Eyes and hands are incredibly expressive and when you’re up close they come alive. You can do this with your zoom lens, but when you move in physically you will be engaging with your subject (even if that just means that they are noticing you!). With kids, it’s their unpredictable interactions with me that lead to my favorite shots.

2. Accessorize and use color! Follow these styling tips from Jo-Ann: Bows on headbands, shoes and belts will quickly add interest to an otherwise plain shot. A flash of color is another way to wake up an outfit. A bright scarf around the neck, a bold colored watch or socks will always fit the bill.

(styling by Jo-Ann, photo by Cosmic Blob Studio)

3. For a real frame-worthy shot, accessorize AND get in close. You’ll have your friends & family asking: “Wow, who did you get to shoot that?” and have no other choice than to brag that it was you. You’re sure to come up with some memorable results along the way to last through many a future Mother’s Day. Mom will be so happy!