Portrait of a Mother: More Than Just Pretty Pictures

I’ve been in the photography business for 15 years, and in that time, I’ve stood behind my lens, capturing countless portraits of mothers. I’ve seen the tears, the laughter, the tension, and the love—sometimes all in the same session. And if there’s one thing I’ve learned, it’s this: motherhood is messy, raw, and beautiful. It’s not just about the pretty pictures. It’s about the stories behind them.

As I look at my own daughters, I am reminded of how quickly time passes. This Mother’s Day, let’s pause and capture these fleeting moments. I’m offering mini-sessions to create lasting memories you’ll treasure. Imagine having a portrait that truly reflects your unique bond.

For this event, I collaborated with Lehrfeld Farm & San Martin Ceramic in San Martin. Carlie will be offering Pain Your Own Pottery time either before or after your session. After your session, only if your booked slot is before 6:30 pm.

San Martin Ceramics will be open from 4 pm to 7 pm for PYOP.

Price per person starts at $12 for the studio fee plus the cost of pottery (starting at $12+) and is not included in the price of the mini session.

Amazing location, simple vintage set up, good music, and art!

We will have a simple vintage setup, like the pictures in this post, among trees at Carlie’s farm. In addition, if you stay for PYOP, you will be able to hang out in her amazing, open-floor barn studio, listen to good music, and make some art. Here are some shots of Carlie’s Art Studio.

I Know the Insecurities Mothers Carry

As women, we carry so much. We carry the weight of aging, the fear of not being enough, and the constant battle with our insecurities. I see it in the mothers who sit in front of my camera, and I feel it in my own heart. “Just make me look younger,” they say, and I get it. I get it.

I used to take self-portraits all the time. Way back before my kids, and then throughout the years when my kids were growing up. I loved creating (self)portraits of a mother(hood). Back then, it wasn’t eny easier. I was younger, I’m convinced I looked better (lol), I felt better, had more energy, and spunk. Yet, I still remember not liking my own images. Today? I love them! I come back to them once in a while and cherish the moments I captured. Today I see myself in a different light. I give myself grace.

Even today, when I look in the mirror, I see the wrinkles, the sagging skin, the silver streaks in my hair, and I give myself grace. Is it easy? Egh… I would argue that. It’s not vain or selfish or narcissistic. It’s just reality looking back at you. And that is fine!

I totally understand why so many of us crave that younger version of ourselves. But here’s the truth: that version of us is gone. And the woman staring back at us today? She’s still here, still loving, still doing her best.

And to be honest, photography, like any form of art, can be therapeutic. Sometimes the down days are the best inspirations to just get out there, in front of that camera, and show the world the true, authentic self.

My Own Struggle as a Mother

Recently, I did an impromptu session with my two daughters. The morning didn’t start well. I guess I woke up on the wrong side of the bed, as they say. But when it came time to take the pictures, something shifted. We didn’t fake it. There were no forced smiles or stiff hugs. It was just us, raw and honest.

I struggle daily with the idea of being the “best” mother. I know I’m not. I have lots and lots to figure out. And maybe I will never get there. I’ve failed my kids more times than I can count. But here’s what I know: my love for them is pure. Even when I’m angry, it’s because I care. Even when I’m distant, it’s because I’m trying to figure it all out.

Just like you, I struggle with the new wrinkles… I struggle with the time slipping by and leaving physical signs all over my body. Inside and out.

I Know the Tension Between the Family Members

Not every session starts with smiles and laughter. Sometimes, there’s tension. Maybe it was a bad day. Maybe there’s emotional exhaustion. Maybe it’s just not the right timing. But here’s the thing: that tension doesn’t define the love in the room.

I’ve learned to let go of judgment and look deeper. Through my lens, I see the trust in their eyes, the love in their gestures, the comfort of being real—even with a stranger pointing a camera at them. These moments aren’t just about that short session time with me. They’re about the years of love, the fights, the forgiveness, and the bond that’s been built over time.

Portrait of a mother – Celebrate The Beauty of Imperfections

Motherhood isn’t about perfection. It’s about showing up, even when it’s hard. It’s about capturing the time that passes by. Not everything needs to be planned, polished, prepared, and coordinated to capture the love, connection, family.

The portraits I took with my girls that day? They’re imperfect. Messy hair. No makeup. Not much creativity with the outfits. Whatever was in the closet could be assembled together in 10 minutes, because the light was running out.

Did I like seeing on my camera’s screen that aged portrait of mother Ewa? Not really, but as a person who’s been talking self-portraits for more than 20 years (!!!) I know those photographs are a wrinkle in time. In a few years, I will look at them wishing I was THAT young…

Don’t Wait for Tomorrow, Seriously

Here’s my message to you, fellow mama: don’t wait for a better tomorrow. Tomorrow isn’t promised. Celebrate where you are right now—the wrinkles, the tired eyes, the messy hair, and all. Because one day, you’ll look back and realize that this was the beauty.

Stop chasing perfect pictures.

Stop apologizing for our imperfections.

Let’s befriend them.

Let’s show our kids that love isn’t about being flawless—it’s about being present.

This is my portrait of a mother. Very unplanned, spontaneous and also authentic.

Let me create a few of them for you!