28/05/2026
Mums ! family photos matter to us. Not always to him.
I’ve had sessions recently where dad steps back, jokes that he doesn’t want to be there. But it’s not really a joke. I’m not at all offended but I can feel the mum’s discomfort. She really needs this. He just feels awkward. I get it.
In this session I felt his discomfort ( and was pre warned ) I also saw him honouring her and showing up for something that felt completely unnatural, because she needed it.
So I made a decision I’ve never made in 12 plus years of doing this.
I turned to Pete and said: “You can be on the sidelines. This is about Caity. I’m photographing her. You’ll be in a few but just know, this is about her.”
The relief was TANGIBLE.
A load lifted.
And everything changed. He relaxed .
It was about her. Truly. About honouring her becoming a mother. A First Mother’s Day gift.
Family photos can be about you, and him playing a supporting role. All good with me .
Rebecca Rottcher | Pottsville Photographer | Family , Maternity + Newborn Photography Northern Rivers