It’s the end of the year and it’s time for me to create a family photo calendar for my in-laws. Ever since I started making them back in 2003, it has been an annual tradition and a gift that the family looks forward to receiving at Christmas.

This year, as I was going through my iPhoto library, I was disappointed by the lack of selection of shots. In previous years, the kids were younger and easier to get in front of the camera. Mugging for my camera was great fun for them before, now it seems they’re too cool or too busy to pose for a picture. This year seemed to be a bit more challenging, as they were always more interested in playing the Wii; running around the house, screaming their heads off; or watching TV. Gathering them for a group shot is akin to moving a mountain. Correction, moving a mountain might be less taxing.

It makes me question whether I would ever make a good baby/child photographer. Perhaps in a setting without as many distractions… but our family gatherings abound with distractions galore. Add my lack of skill with children and you have a recipe for disaster. Okay, maybe that’s a little dramatic, but it certainly doesn’t add up to many good shots.

You’d be surprised, finding 12 stunning shots can be quite the challenge. Unfortunately, this year, I couldn’t find “stunning” — so, we’ll have to settle for “above average.” To me, that’s just plain disappointing.

My first new year’s resolution on the docket: Take more pictures of family — even if I have to tie them down.

Day 25 of 30