Dad’s Pocket Guide to Capturing the Moment

1. Look for the “Soft” Moments
Forget “Say cheese.” Think: “You had to be there.”

What to watch for:
• She’s brushing hair while singing.
• A toddler wrapped around her neck.
• That belly laugh she didn’t know you were watching.

If it makes you smile, snap it.

2. Use the Best Light
You don’t need a lighting setup—just skip the flash and go for cozy.

• Natural light from a window or open shade outside is gold.
• If it’s dark, try a table lamp—not harsh overhead lights.
• Using a phone? Tap to focus, then slide up slightly to brighten (iPhone or Android—it’s built in!). A little goes a long way.

3. Change Your Angle
Skip the straight-on shot from across the room.

• Get down to kid-level—it instantly feels more personal.
• Snap a wide shot, then zoom in for a tight, emotional close-up. It’s two taps and done.
• Try framing the moment—peek through a doorway or include a cozy edge of the couch.

4. Don’t Wait for “Perfect” (But Be Thoughtful Too)
She might not be photo-ready, but the moment still matters.

Still, for those rare times she’d rather not be front and center, try this:
• Snap it from behind her shoulder while she reads or snuggles.
• Focus on her hands, her lap, the quiet connection.

She’ll be touched that you saw it—and caught it gently.

5. Bonus Points: Send it Later
Text it with a sweet message. Or surprise her with a little print on the fridge. Trust me, this part means just as much as taking the photo.

One More Thing, Mama—Set Him Up to Win

You know when the moment is unfolding before he does. But yelling “Take a picture!” across the room; kinda ruins it.

So here’s your move: pick a code word.

Something playful (“pineapple”), sweet (“firefly”), or even just a gentle squeeze on the arm. It’s your way of saying, “This. Right now. Grab your phone.”

Once you’ve used it a few times, you’ll both get the rhythm—and before long, he might just catch those moments without the nudge.