12 Must-Take Photos For Your Kids' Next Birthday Parties

As a party-planning mom, you've got plenty on your mind: the food, the guest list, keeping the kids entertained . . . the list goes on! But after all is said and done, the photo memories are what remain. With everything you're doing on your little one's big day, it's easy to forget to pull out the camera and capture those priceless party moments. Check out 12 of our must-take pics, and consider this our cheat sheet to documenting your next birthday bash. Source: Flickr user Amanda Tipton

01
The Cake

The Cake

Make sure you get a stellar shot of the centerpiece of your party. Source: Wendy Updegraff Photography

02
The Invitations

The Invitations

They set the tone for your big day, and don't forget what they looked like! Source: ADN Designs

03
You and the Birthday Boy (or Girl)

You and the Birthday Boy (or Girl)

Step away from behind the camera, and make sure that the birthday kid is captured with Mom and Dad! Source: Modern Kids

04
A Posed Group Shot

A Posed Group Shot

Gather up the crew for a classic "one, two, three, cheese!" moment so that you'll always remember the smiling faces who were in attendance. Source: Super Moms 360

05
A Candid Group Shot

A Candid Group Shot

Catch 'em when they least suspect it! Source: Lay Baby Lay

06
Your Favorite Decor Touches

Your Favorite Decor Touches

If you went to extra effort to concoct a special dessert table, photo booth, or guest-book station, make sure to snap a shot. Source: Event Head

07
The Activities

The Activities

Whether the day's agenda includes a musical performance, a magic show, special crafts, or even tattoos, capture it on camera. Source: Caroline Tran Photography

08
The Anticipation

The Anticipation

The little guest of honor in the moments before his or her party is sure to be a snap-worthy shot — whether they're feeling nervous and shy, or are bouncing off the walls. Source: Flickr user karlg

09
The Kids In Their Element

The Kids In Their Element

Once the party's in full swing, snap a shot of the kids just being themselves. Photo by Ruth Eileen via Style Me Pretty

10
The Calm Before the Storm

The Calm Before the Storm

You worked hard for this day! Capture what you've created before it turns to chaos. Photos by Francesco Lagnese. Courtesy of Martha Stewart Living. Copyright © 2012. Originally published in the October issue of Martha Stewart Living magazine

11
Photo-Booth Fun

Photo-Booth Fun

If you have a photo booth, make sure to get some behind-the-scenes shots of your party guests posing. If not, ask them to ham it up as you snap away! Source: Grey Luster Girl

12
The Kid With the Cake

The Kid With the Cake

Make sure to get a photo of the guest of honor as they're being presented with a cake full of candles. Source: The MomTog Diaries