Black and white photo of a large extended family posed outdoors with adults and children gathered around a seated woman in a park.

 

Family photos are an investment in preserving the season of life you are currently in. The little smiles, the tiny hands, the personalities, and the moments you never want to forget deserve to be captured.
But before your session arrives, there are a few common mistakes that can make the experience feel more stressful than it needs to be.

As a Northeast Indiana family photographer, I want your session to feel relaxed, fun, and true to your family. Here are five things to avoid before your family photo session.

 

Young family of three standing together on a grassy lawn by tall reeds, with parents smiling and a little girl in front.
Parents with two young sons in a grassy outdoor setting, dad holding the toddler while mom and the older boy embrace.

1. Waiting Until the Last Minute to Plan Outfits


Planning outfits ahead of time helps you feel prepared and confident. Choose colors that coordinate, add textures, and pick clothing that feels comfortable and true to your family.

2. Choosing Clothes That Don’t Feel Like You


The best photos happen when everyone can move, play, and be themselves. Avoid outfits that are difficult to wear or that your kids do not feel comfortable in.

3. Expecting Everyone to Be Perfect


Kids wiggle, people laugh, and not every moment will be perfectly posed — and that is okay! Some of the most meaningful images happen in the in-between moments.

A large extended family poses together on a grassy lawn near tall reeds, with grandparents seated and grandchildren gathered in front.
A smiling woman in a blue striped dress sits on a stool holding her young daughter in a white dress in front of tall grasses.
Extended family of grandparents and young grandchildren posing together on a grassy lawn with tall reeds and trees behind them.

4. Forgetting to Communicate With Your Photographer


Let your photographer know about your family’s personalities, any concerns, and the moments you want captured. This helps create a session experience that feels personal.


5. Forgetting to Enjoy the Moment




Don’t worry about making every photo perfect. Focus on your family, have fun, and trust your photographer to capture the memories.

Black and white portrait of two smiling young brothers hugging in front of tall cattail reeds on a grassy lawn.
Black and white outdoor portrait of a little girl standing behind her baby sister in a floral dress near tall grass.