5 Family Photo Fails to Skip
The Complete guide to sidestep family photo pitfalls
family photo mistakes to avoid
Planning family photos? Don’t worry—I’ve seen just about everything when it comes to sessions with kids, dogs, in-laws, you name it. Many families make the same five mistakes before photo day… and the good news? They’re all super easy to avoid. Here’s how to walk into your shoot feeling prepared, relaxed, and ready to actually enjoy the fun!
Overbooking Your Day
The mistake: Trying to squeeze in errands, sports, or activities before your session.
Why it backfires: Kids (and adults) get tired, overstimulated, or hangry. You roll into your session already stressed.
What to do instead: Keep the day light. Treat your session like the main event. A chill morning sets the tone for a smoother, more connected experience in front of the camera.
Hyping It Up Too Much
The mistake: Telling the kids (or your partner) they have to smile and behave.
Why it backfires: Pressure kills the vibe. Kids start melting down before we even start.
What to do instead: Keep it casual but consistent leading up to our photo session day: “We’re meeting a guy named Tom to take a few fun pictures.” The less buildup, the more natural everyone feels—and the better your photos turn out.
Skipping Snacks (or Naps)
The mistake: Forgetting basic human needs.
Why it backfires: Hungry or overtired kids (or dads) don’t fake it well.
What to do instead: Time your session to land after rest and before dinner if possible. Bring a no-mess snack (think dry cereal or fruit gummies) and a water bottle. I promise, no one judges snack breaks.
Over-directing Your Kids During the Shoot
The mistake: Constantly telling them to smile, look at the camera, fix their hair.
Why it backfires: It distracts from real moments and can create tension.
What to do instead: Let me guide the flow. I use games, prompts, and light direction to bring out natural connection. You just focus on loving on your people.
Forgetting the Why
The mistake: Getting caught up in outfits, Pinterest poses, or wanting it all to be “perfect.”
Why it backfires: You miss the real, in-between magic that makes your family your family.
What to do instead: Embrace the chaos, the quirks, the belly laughs. The best photos come when you let go of control and just be yourselves.
Final Thoughts on a Perfect Family Photo Shoot
Look, family photos don’t have to be a stressful thing you just try to survive. With a little prep and the right mindset, they can be fun—like, actually fun—and meaningful. These images are about connection. If you show up open, I’ll take care of the rest.
Let’s make some memories. 👋
Frequently asked queStions
about A great FAMILY Photo Session
01. What if my partner isn’t super into doing photos?
Answer: That’s super common. I keep things fast-paced, relaxed, and low-pressure. I won’t ask anyone to do anything cheesy. In fact, most reluctant partners walk away saying, “That wasn’t bad at all.”
02. What should we wear to avoid regretting our outfits later?
Answer: Avoid busy patterns, giant logos, and anything that makes you constantly tug or adjust. Earth tones, neutrals, and soft textures tend to photograph beautifully. I’ve got a full outfit guide [you can check out here]—or just shoot me a photo of your picks and I’ll help out.
03. Do you help with poses or do we have to figure that out?
Answer: I guide the whole thing. You won’t be standing around wondering what to do with your hands. My approach is loose and fun—think more movement and connection, less stiff posing.
04. How do I keep my kids from melting down during the session?
Answer: Snacks. Rest. Zero pressure. If your kids feel safe and relaxed, the photos will reflect that. I also use movement-based prompts, games, and silly tricks to keep things light and fun—no forced smiles here.
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