April 2025 Wk1 Scrapbook Page Layout

Are you the anonymous scrapbooker?

As the go-to photographer for your family and friends, I’m sure you take pride in capturing the special moments, everyday joys, and milestone events that make up their stories.

But have you ever noticed that, while everyone else’s life is documented, your presence is often missing? Its ironic don’t you think that the very people championing memory albums (you!) are often the ones hiding behind the camera.  That means your story and your memories are not being recorded! 

It’s time for the scrapbooker to become part of her stories.

I challenge you to step in front of the lens.

Here’s why it’s important and how you can make it happen.

 

Why You Need to Be in the Photos

• You Are Part of the Story – Your family album should reflect everyone who plays a role in its memories, and that includes you
• Your Loved Ones Want to Remember You – In years to come, your children, partner, extended family, and friends will value images of you, just as you cherish photos of your own parents or grandparents.
• Capture Your Changing Life – Time moves quickly, and your appearance, style, and surroundings change. Regular photos ensure your evolving life is recorded just as much as everyone else’s.
• Set an Example – By stepping in front of the camera, you show your family and friends that everyone’s presence is valuable and worth documenting.
• Celebrate Self-Acceptance – Being photographed is a way of embracing yourself as you are. Perfection isn’t the goal—capturing real life is.  Your friends and ancestors don’t care about whether you need a haircut, or if your clothes are mismatched!

 

How to Get in the Picture

• Professional Family Portraits – Consider scheduling occasional professional family photo sessions like the ones in the example layout above, where you are present in every shot.
• Use a Tripod and Timer – Set up your camera or phone with a tripod and use a timer or remote shutter release to take family or solo shots.
• Embrace Selfies – If nothing else, a simple arm-length selfie with family members or friends ensures you appear in your own photo collection.
• Ask Someone Else to Take the Photo – Hand over the camera or phone to a friend, family member, or even a stranger to snap a picture of you.
• Join in Group Shots – Whenever you organise a group picture, make sure you are part of it rather than standing behind the lens.
• Use Reflections and Shadows Creatively – Mirrors, shop windows, and shadows can be artistic ways to include yourself in an image without needing to pose.

Titles or Subject Ideas for Scrapbook Pages

• ‘Mum (or Dad) in the Picture’ – A dedicated page showing moments where you stepped in front of the camera.
• ‘Photographer’s Life’ – A scrapbook layout featuring behind-the-scenes images of you capturing moments.
• ‘The Person Behind the Camera’ – A fun comparison of your role as the documenter and your presence in the photos.
• ‘Everyday Me’ – A page focusing on candid moments of you in your natural daily routine.
• ‘Through Their Eyes’ – Photos taken by your children, partner, or friends, offering their perspective of you.
• ‘Then and Now’ – A timeline of photos showing your presence in family and friendship memories over the years.

By making a conscious effort to include yourself in your family’s and friends’ photos, you ensure Your scrapbooks will tell a more complete story—one that includes you.