‘Enjoy Where You Are And What You Have With Your Baby, And Take A Photo!’

Last March 2024, we asked readers to submit photos capturing the raw and unfiltered moments of parenthood. Out of thousands of entries, 50 best motherhood moments were selected and announced on Mother’s Day. This article is part of a series that delves into the stories behind the 10 winning photos of Smart Parenting’s Parenthood 100 photo contest.

“After sleepless nights taking care of a toddler, our Nanay comes to the rescue to help Mama bathe the baby every morning. This photo shows that unconditional love doesn’t need to be expensive, it only needs to be pure and true.”

This is how photographer Rhon Paolo C. Velarde described his photo, entitled Love in a Bath--his entry to the Smart Parenting Parenthood 100 photo contest. The photo is of his mother, Arlene Velarde, and partner, Checelyn Solamillo, giving their son Caleb a bath.

“The photo was taken in our province in Pampanga,” Rhon shared with Smart Parenting. “We went there for Semana Santa. This was part of our usual morning routine, with my son Caleb taking his bath. My mother, the lady on the right in the photo, always helps my partner to bathe our baby. I captured the photo because though it is a simple gesture, it’s one filled with love.”

“Keep every moment”

Rhon used a Ricoh GR camera to capture the photo, and his intention was deeply personal. He aimed to document the everyday experiences of his son’s childhood. “My goal in capturing this photo was to keep every moment of how my son is growing up and his everyday life,” he explained.

Aside from Rhon’s partner, mother, and son, the photograph also includes his nephew, who can be seen gazing at Caleb–a subtle detail that adds a layer of familial connection and curiosity. “As you can see, the boy at the back is my nephew. He just met my son for the first time, and he really likes Caleb. That’s why he always looks for Caleb whatever they do,” Rhon said.

Time and love

“Time is really gold,” Rhon emphasized. “As a parent, it is important to create and make the most out of precious bonding times with your baby. Bond and nurture your relationship via simple daily tasks, such as bath times. These are some of the simplest ways to express to them how much you love them.”

Rhon’s photo serves as a gentle reminder to find joy in simple, everyday moments. The act of bathing a child, which can be tiring and stressful at times, becomes a profound expression of care and love in this context.

At the same time, Rhon advised other parents to remember to embrace and document these daily routines. “Enjoy where you are and what you have today with your baby. And plus, take a photo to remember all the details!” he encouraged.

Through Love in a Bath, Rhon showcases the beauty in simplicity and the importance of cherishing every moment. His photograph is a powerful testament to the enduring bonds of family and the love that connects generations.