5 Mistakes to Avoid When Planning a Family Photoshoot at Cannon Beach and the Oregon Coast
Planning a family photoshoot on the Oregon Coast—especially at iconic locations like Cannon Beach—can feel overwhelming, but it doesn’t have to be! As local Cannon Beach family photographers, we’re here to make the process smooth, enjoyable, and stress-free so you can focus on what matters most: making beautiful memories.
Here are five common mistakes families make when planning their photoshoot—and how to set yourself up for a joyful, successful session.
1. Choosing the Wrong Location
The right location sets the entire mood for your session. Picking a spot that doesn’t match your family’s vibe can make your photos feel out of place.
What Works Best:
For family photos at Cannon Beach, consider the soft sandy beaches, tide pools, and the iconic backdrop of Haystack Rock. If you want something more private, nearby gems like Hug Point or Manzanita offer peaceful, intimate settings.
Pro Tip: We’ll help you choose the perfect Oregon Coast location that fits your family’s story, whether you’re dreaming of wide beaches, coastal forests, or dramatic cliffs.
2. Overlooking Outfit Coordination
One of the easiest ways to elevate your Oregon Coast family photos is with thoughtfully coordinated outfits. A common mistake? Wearing clashing patterns, neon colors, or clothing with logos that can pull focus from the real connection in your photos.
What to Do Instead:
Opt for neutral, coastal-inspired tones like soft blues, creams, taupes, and gentle greens that complement the natural colors of Cannon Beach and the Oregon Coast. Flowy dresses, linen shirts, and simple layers create a timeless look—and always choose comfort, especially for little ones!
3. Not Preparing the Kids (or Yourself)
If your kids (or you!) are caught off guard by the session, it can lead to unnecessary stress and tension. Especially for younger children, going in cold can mean resistance or meltdowns.
How to Set Up Success:
Talk about the photoshoot ahead of time in an upbeat, playful way.
Let your kids help pick small things like their shoes or hair accessories to get them excited.
Give yourself extra time to get ready so you’re not rushed or frazzled.
4. Forgetting About Timing
Timing can make or break your family photos. Scheduling during nap times or rushing to a mid-day session can lead to cranky little ones and harsh, unflattering light.
What Works Best on the Oregon Coast:
The golden hour—just after sunrise or just before sunset—is magical at Cannon Beach. The soft, warm light beautifully complements the coastal landscape and creates a relaxed, dreamy atmosphere.
Extra Tip: Always add a 15-minute buffer to your travel time. Coastal weather and beach parking can be unpredictable, and giving yourself that cushion will help keep the session stress-free.
5. Chasing Perfection
Trying to control every detail often leads to stiff, over-posed photos. The most heartfelt images happen when families relax and just enjoy each other.
Embrace the Imperfection:
Let your family be themselves. Whether it’s a spontaneous laugh, sandy toes, or windblown hair, these unscripted moments tell your real story—and those are the memories you’ll treasure.
Bonus Tip: Trust Your Photographer
We’ve helped many families create beautiful Cannon Beach family photo experiences and know how to make the process fun, easy, and relaxed. From finding the perfect Oregon Coast location to styling advice and working with kids, we’re here to guide you every step of the way.
Let’s Plan Your Cannon Beach Family Photoshoot
When you avoid these common mistakes and trust the process, your family photoshoot on the Oregon Coast will feel less like a task and more like a special adventure. You’ll walk away with timeless, meaningful photos that capture your family’s love in one of the most beautiful places in Oregon.
Ready to plan your family photo session at Cannon Beach or along the Oregon Coast?
Contact Evergreen Portraits today, and let’s create something unforgettable together.