When we think about family photography, we often picture the mom with her kids snuggling close, wiping tears, fixing hair, being the heart of the photo. And while those moments are powerful and essential, there’s someone else whose presence in these images matters deeply, too: Dad.
Whether he’s tossing the kids in the air, reading bedtime stories, or standing just slightly outside the frame thinking he’s not needed, fathers hold a quiet but irreplaceable space in the family story. And it’s time we make sure they’re part of the picture,literally.
The Underrated Role of Fathers in Photos
Too often, dads hang back during photo sessions. Whether it’s because they feel awkward in front of the camera, think the photos are “just for Mom,” or simply aren’t sure where to stand, it’s not uncommon for fathers to appear in only a handful of family pictures. But years from now, those photos will be what your children look back on. And they’ll want to see both of you.
As a lifestyle family photographer based in Durham, North Carolina, I’ve photographed hundreds of families in natural, relaxed sessions that capture connection over perfection. And when I look back through those galleries, the photos that truly stop me in my tracks are often the ones of dads simply being present holding hands, making goofy faces, calming nerves, or quietly watching from the background.
Why Dad’s Presence Matters
Your kids don’t care if your hair is perfect, if your smile is symmetrical, or if your outfit matches theirs. They care that you’re there. That you’re part of the memory. That they can see you as you were right in the middle of their childhood, loving them in ways that only a dad can.
And it’s not just for them. It’s for you, too. Being in family photos is a chance to document the bond you share, the way your presence shapes the day-to-day, and the strength of your role in your family’s life. It’s legacy work, whether you realize it or not.
Natural, Comfortable Sessions for Every Family
At Kelly Ann 3 Photography, I create relaxed, meaningful sessions that invite everyone to show up just as they are. Whether your family photo session takes place in your backyard, a quiet city street, or the comfort of your own living room, I’ll guide you every step of the way so there’s nothing stiff or overly posed.
Dads, you don’t have to know where to put your hands. You don’t have to perform. You just have to be you. That’s what your kids will cherish later. That’s what makes the photos real.
Custom Photography That Reflects Your Life
In Durham and throughout the Triangle, I work with families who want more than just a holiday card photo, they want images that feel honest and connected. Sessions are customized to fit your family’s rhythm, so we can capture the big laughs and quiet hugs, the silly and the serious, and all the moments in between.
Whether it’s a full custom family session or a shorter mini session, we’ll find a way to include the details that matter most, like the way your child looks up at you, or the way you instinctively reach for their hand when they wander too far.
Let’s Put Dads Back in the Frame
If you’ve been waiting for the perfect season to update your family photos, fall is a beautiful time to do it. The light is golden, the weather is cooler, and the moments are ripe for remembering.
And dads, this is your reminder: you matter in your family’s story. Your presence in their memories is a gift they’ll carry forever. Let’s make sure you’re in the picture.
