5 Mistakes to Avoid When Planning a Family Photoshoot
Planning a family photoshoot can feel overwhelming, but it doesn’t have to be! As your trusted photographers, we’re here to ensure the process is seamless, enjoyable, and results in photos that truly document your family’s love and connection. To help you feel prepared, here are five common mistakes to avoid when planning your session—and how to set yourself up for success.
1. Choosing the Wrong Location
The location you choose sets the tone for your entire session. Opting for a spot that doesn’t align with your family’s personality or aesthetic can leave your photos feeling disconnected. Instead, select a setting that reflects your story—whether that’s a serene park with golden-hour lighting, a quiet corner of the city, or the comfort of your own home.
Pro Tip: We’re here to help you choose the perfect location in Washington and Oregon with options ranging from lush green spaces to timeless urban backdrops.
2. Overlooking Outfit Coordination
One of the easiest ways to elevate your photos is through cohesive outfits. A common mistake is selecting clothing with clashing patterns, bright colors, or logos that can distract from the emotional connection in your photos.
What to Do Instead: Stick to neutral, timeless pieces in soft tones like beige, cream, or grey. Flowy dresses, tailored trousers, and classic layers create a refined, European-inspired look. And remember, comfort is key—especially for little ones!
3. Not Preparing the Kids (or Yourself)
Going into the session unprepared can lead to stress, especially for families with young children. Kids thrive on routine, so springing a photoshoot on them last-minute could result in meltdowns.
How to Avoid This: Talk about the session beforehand in a fun and positive way. Let your kids know what to expect, and consider involving them in small decisions like picking accessories or shoes. For adults, give yourself plenty of time to get ready to avoid feeling rushed.
4. Forgetting About Timing
Timing can make or break your photos. Scheduling your session during nap time or meal time can leave kids cranky, while mid-day lighting can be harsh and unflattering.
What Works Best: Book your session during golden hour (the hour after sunrise or before sunset) for the most flattering light. Plan around your kids’ natural rhythms to ensure they’re rested, fed, and happy.
Extra Tip: Add a 15-minute buffer to your travel time when heading to the location. This allows for unexpected traffic, bathroom breaks, or last-minute needs without adding stress to the start of your session.
5. Focusing on Perfection
It’s easy to get caught up in trying to make everything perfect, but family photoshoots are about documenting real moments. Over-rehearsed poses or forced smiles can feel unnatural and take away from the authenticity of your photos.
Embrace the Imperfection: Let your family be themselves! Whether it’s a spontaneous laugh or a quiet cuddle, these unscripted moments often result in the most meaningful images. Trust your photographer to capture your family’s unique story in a way that feels true to you.
Bonus Tip: Trust Your Photographer
We’ve worked with countless families and understand how to create a relaxed, enjoyable experience. From location scouting to styling advice, we’re here to guide you every step of the way.
By avoiding these common mistakes and embracing a thoughtful approach, your family photoshoot will feel less like a chore and more like a celebration of your connection. The result? Timeless, heartfelt photos that you'll treasure for years to come.