Letter from a Reader

Dear Jessica,

My husband hates to get his photo taken, but I still really want family photos. Is it too much to ask to Photoshop a smile on his face in every picture with him? Here is our best picture from last year to prove my point.

Thank you,

Worried Wynona

Hello, Wynona (and any other husband-harried readers),

You must feel like your husband is quite the curmudgeon. But it’s pretty typical for many guys (and gals) not to enjoy having their photo taken. After all, a lot of times, photo sessions are kind of weird. You get outfits for this single occasion, yell and yank to get the family to a random location you’ve never been to, and then have a stranger tell you to stand just so and be affectionate. And, I must say, that’s tough for some people. But thankfully, there are some talented photographers out there making that look great.

But to answer your question, I won’t be Photoshopping your husband’s face, and here’s why: I won’t need to. If your husband is capable of smiling, he probably will at some point during the session because my experience is different. He will be wearing comfortable clothes, in a location he knows, with people he loves, and he won’t hear me say, “Smile.” 

And, can I just say this? There are some other worthwhile expressions people make without being asked.

In case you’re still worried, Wynona, here’s the proof.

Yours Truly,

Jessica Ellen May