Family photos are more than just pictures- they tell the story of this time, and your life together. If you’re feeling stressed or worried about an upcoming session, there’s a few things you’ll want to avoid doing.

If you want a photo experience that is fun, relaxed, and showcases the real connections between you and your family, read on to make sure you’re not making these family photo mistakes!

MISTAKE ONE-

LIMITING YOURSELF TO GOLDEN HOUR FOR YOUR PHOTOS

Yes, golden hour lighting is beautiful, but it’s not the only time you can take stunning family photos. In fact, for families with young children, golden hour often conflicts with bedtime, leading to cranky little ones. A great photographer knows how to work with all lighting conditions—whether it’s a bright midday session or a cozy in-home shoot. The best time for your family photos is the time that works best for you!

MISTAKE TWO-

STRESSING ABOUT BEING PERFECT OR KEEPING YOUR KIDS CLEAN

Kids get messy. Hair gets wild. Clothes get wrinkled. And that’s totally okay! Some of the best photos come from embracing the chaos rather than trying to fight it. Let go of the stress and focus on enjoying the moment. The more relaxed you are, the more natural and joyful your photos will be.

MISTAKE THREE-

MATCHING YOUR OUTFITS TOO MUCH

Gone are the days of everyone wearing matching white shirts and denim jeans. Instead of identical outfits, aim for a coordinated color palette that complements each other without being too uniform. Mixing textures, patterns, and layers adds depth and visual interest, making your photos feel timeless rather than overly staged. Click HERE for my tips on styling for your family photos.

MISTAKE FOUR-

THINKING THAT FAMILY PHOTOS = STANDING STILL AND SMILING FOR AN HOUR

Let’s be real—no one enjoys standing stiffly and forcing a smile for an hour. The best family photos happen when you’re playing, laughing, and just being yourselves. Movement creates magic! Whether it’s running through a field, playing a game, or sharing a group hug, interactive moments result in genuine expressions and beautiful images.

MISTAKE FIVE-

NOT LETTING YOUR KIDS BE KIDS

If your kids want to run, explore, or act silly—let them! A great family photographer will capture those moments of pure joy and personality. The best photos are the ones that showcase your family as they truly are, not just perfectly posed versions of themselves. Trust the process and let your kids be themselves!

MISTAKE SIX-

FORGETTING TO BE IN THE PHOTOS WITH YOUR KIDS

Parents, this one is for you—get in the frame! It’s easy to focus on capturing photos of just the kids, but years from now, they’ll want to remember YOU too. Don’t worry about how you look or whether everything is perfect. The love and connection you share with your children are what truly matter, and being present in those memories is priceless.

MISTAKE SEVEN-

THINKING THAT THIS TIME ISN’T IMPORTANT TO CAPTURE

Spoiler alert—it absolutely is! Every stage of your family’s life is worth documenting. Whether your kids are tiny toddlers or teenagers, these moments are fleeting. The best family photos aren’t just about looking nice—they’re about capturing the love, connection, and joy that make your family unique.

Family photo sessions don’t have to be stressful, awkward, or overly staged. By avoiding these common mistakes and embracing a more relaxed, playful approach, you’ll end up with images that truly reflect your family’s love and connection. So, the next time you book a session, remember—let go of the pressure, have fun, and trust your photographer to capture the magic. Your future self (and your kids) will thank you!