4 Family Photo Mistakes to Avoid (From a Philly Family Photographer)

If you’ve ever felt overwhelmed preparing for a family photo session, you’re not alone. As a family photographer in Philadelphia, I’ve seen so many amazing parents stress over the little things—like whether their toddler will smile or if their outfits are “too matchy.”

Here’s the good news: the most common photo mishaps are totally avoidable with just a little prep.

So whether you’re hiring me or another pro, here are four family photo mistakes to avoid—plus what to do instead, so your session feels easy and the results feel magical.

Mistake #1: Waiting Until the Last Minute to Choose Outfits

This one sneaks up on people! You book your photographer, mark the date on the calendar… and then suddenly it’s the night before and you’re frantically scrolling your closet while your toddler refuses to wear anything but a Spider-Man costume.

You don’t need to be styled like a magazine shoot, but coordinating clothing in advance can take your photos from “just okay” to effortlessly polished.

What to avoid:

• Bright neons or bold logos that distract
• Everyone wearing the same outfit (yes, even white shirts and jeans!)
• Uncomfortable clothes your kids hate wearing

What to do instead:

• Choose a color palette of 3–4 soft, coordinating tones
• Mix textures (knits, linen, gauze, cotton) for depth
• Start with one outfit you love (usually mom’s!) and build the rest around it
• Aim for timeless over trendy

Bonus tip: When you work with me, you get access to a curated client wardrobe filled with timeless, photogenic pieces. I also help you plan the whole look so it’s one less thing to stress about.

Mistake #2: Expecting the Kids to “Be Good” the Whole Time

Let’s set the record straight—no child behaves perfectly for a full hour (nor should they!). Meltdowns, giggles, snack breaks, and silly energy are all part of it.

Here’s what works instead:

• Set realistic expectations: kids will be kids and that’s a good thing!
• Make it fun: I design sessions like a playful outing, not a stiff photoshoot.
• Trust your photographer: I know how to guide even the most spirited toddlers into beautiful, natural moments.

Some of the best photos come right after the goofy chaos—when a child melts into their parent’s arms or laughs at their own joke. That’s the magic.

Remember: The goal isn’t perfection—it’s connection. Real smiles come from play, not pressure.

Mistake #3: Trying to Control Everything

The truth is: the best photos come from letting go just a little.

I’ve captured many families over the years, and the most memorable images are never the perfectly posed ones. They’re the in-between giggles, the snuggles, the way your toddler rests their head on your shoulder when they get sleepy.

What to avoid:

• Stressing if your toddler runs off
• Constantly fixing everyone’s hair/outfits
• Interrupting a candid moment to say, “Smile!”

What to do instead:

• Trust your photographer (hi!) to gently guide you
• Focus on enjoying your family, not managing the session
• Let the chaos be part of the charm—because it is!

Mistake #4: Booking the Session on an Already Busy Day

If you’re trying to squeeze in your photos between soccer practice, errands, and a birthday party… it might not go well.

Here’s what I recommend:

• Choose a day (and time) when your family is rested and relaxed.
• Don’t skip naps or snack time–hungry kids do not photograph well!
• Avoid anything high-energy right before your session.
• Add buffer time—getting everyone ready always takes longer than you think.

You’ll thank yourself later when no one is frazzled, rushed, or running on fumes.

Bonus Tip

What to Bring

• Mess-free snacks
• Water
• Baby wipes
• A lovey or comfort item
• A backup outfit (especially for little ones)

What to Leave at Home

• High-stakes bribes
• Pinterest-perfect poses
• The pressure for everything to go “just right”

The best family photo sessions happen when you’re present, playful, and relaxed.

The families who get the most out of their photo sessions are the ones who let themselves relax and just be together.

Avoiding these common family photo mistakes—wardrobe stress, unprepared family members, and trying to control every moment—can totally shift your experience from stressful to joy-filled.

And that joy? It shows up in every single frame.

Ready for a Photo Session That Actually Feels Easy?

I’m here to make the entire process—from planning and styling to prints on your wall—feel calm, custom, and fun. Whether you’re in Philly, South Jersey, or the Main Line, I’d love to help you create timeless, heart-melting images of your family. Reach out here to get started.