Hey, it’s Tenley here!

One thing that Cristin and I are both really passionate at is making sure we get in the frame. We want to make sure that our kids remember that not only were we there but that we were freaking awesome moms. We want them to see how much we loved them. How we held them when they cried, held their hands when they were nervous on their first day, and how we weren't afraid to be ridiculously silly to make them laugh. 

This is a huge reason why we wanted to make our online photography course for parents to learn to take better pictures of their kids, Capturing Everyday Magic. We wanted to include a huge section on getting in the frame to teach you all how to do this too. Because you were there too. Because you planned all of that fun they are having. Because you're amazing! So while the course will cover this more in depth I wanted to include my favorite quick, free and easy hack for overhead photos to get you started. I mean who doesn't love a good snuggle picture right?! 

What you'll need:

• A small piece of cardboard

• Strong tape

• Scissors

That's it!! I cut the cardboard into a smaller strip and then bend it into a boxy u shape. Then I tape that little piece of cardboard into a mini shelf for my phone onto my ceiling, a beam, or even a ceiling fan. You'll want to make sure it's super secure obviously before laying under it so make sure you use a good tape. I love gaffers tape or a strong packing tape for this. 

You can then hit the timer function on your phone, slide it into the shelf so that the camera part is still showing and aimed at where you'll be and then jump down into frame. A way easier way to do this is to invest in a bluetooth remote for your phone so that you can stay in place and click away without getting up each time. The phone tripod we recommend in our course comes with one. Or I just added a solo remote to our gear list if you aren't in need of a phone tripod. 

We have so many more tips for getting in the frame in our course, Capturing Everyday Magic, but we hope you try this tip this week!