Hey mama — ever scroll through your camera roll and realize you’re not in any of the photos? 🙋♀️
You’re not alone. As moms, we’re usually behind the camera… or cringing at the rare photo we are in. (Thanks for nothing, insta husband 🤣).
Let’s change that.
These self-portrait posing tips for moms are all about helping you get in the frame — confidently, comfortably, and without the awkward “what do I do with my hands?” moment.
And yes — these tips work whether you’re using a DSLR, mirrorless camera, your phone, or if someone else is taking your photo! Want help with the technical side? Check out my tutorials here and here.
All the photos in this post were taken using a tripod and a remote or timer — and you can totally do this, too.
Posing Tips for Moms: Let Go and Have Fun
If taking self-portraits feels frustrating, it’ll show in your face and body. Try to treat it like play, especially if your kids are nearby.
Here’s a fun trick:
Imagine a big square in front of you. Slowly look at each corner and pause with a smile — you’ll feel silly (and that’s the point). Pretty soon, you’ll be genuinely laughing, which makes for the best kind of candid portraits.
Even better? Put on music and dance around with your little ones. Use your camera’s interval timer (watch this) so you can move freely and stay in the moment.
What to Do With Your Hands
The number one sign of an awkward photo? Uncomfortable hand placement. Don’t leave your hands idle! If you feel awkward in photos, hand placement is a dead giveaway to the viewer so find something for them to do!
Here are a few easy fixes for idle hands:
- Hold hands with your child
- Wrap one arm loosely around your waist
- Rest a hand on your hip (fingers pointing down looks most natural, check the image below for what I mean!)
- Gently touch your hair or tuck it behind your ear
- Sip your magical, life sustaining coffee! ☕ (seriously, props can help)
Bonus tip: Set up a mirror behind your camera to see your pose and adjust in real-time.
Remember — if your kiddos are in the shot, they’ll probably climb on you anyway. Embrace it!
Sitting and Squatting: Poses That Work With Kids
Sitting poses are a self-portrait goldmine for moms because they make it easier to include and engage your little ones. Try:
- Sitting cross-legged with your child in your lap
- Squatting or kneeling at their level for a shared moment
- Rocking or bouncing them to keep energy up
- Facing each other — the easiest way to create natural interaction
Kids probably won’t sit still for a photo, and that’s okay. Focus on connection, not perfection.
Technical Tips for Better Self-Portraits
A few small changes can make a big visual difference:
- Keep your camera level — 90 degrees to the floor — to avoid distortion
- Try to place your child close to you but slightly closer to the lens than you to improve scale and proportions
- Use natural light when possible, and watch out for clutter in the background
Need help with the actual setup? I’ve got step-by-step tips here.
👏 Ready to Be in the Frame?
You deserve to be in the memories you’re capturing. Your family wants to see you in the photos — not just behind the camera.
If you’re ready to take more meaningful, creative, and confident photos of your life as a mom, I’d love to help:
- 🎁 Grab the FREE Pretty Phone Photos Guide
- 📷 Learn how to shoot in manual with my online course
- 💬 Or just say hi on Instagram — I’d love to see your self-portraits!