Mistakes to Avoid for a Beautiful Family Photoshoot

Are you getting ready for a family photoshoot? Are you wondering what makes some sessions so delightful and others maybe...not so much? Do you ever wish for a practice run so you know what not to do?

Look no further! Join me as we talk about mistakes to avoid for a successful family photoshoot!

**Disclaimer: The photos in this blog are GORGEOUS! These mistakes are not drawn from this family, but rather years of experience. Use these images as positive examples!**

Mistake #1: Keeping Quiet

Let's say you're chatting with your photographer and you say you're pretty open to ideas, so she says, "Let's do an outdoor shoot! The lighting is so beautiful this time of year."

Now you know you said you were open, but you are SO allergic to everything blooming right now and don't want to sneeze your way through your shoot. Are you being annoying by saying no?

NO! Tell your photographer! Communicate all these things with her so you can set yourself up for success!

Mistake #2: Being Too Matchy-Matchy

This one is a matter of opinion, but if you are looking for candid, warm, relaxed photos, dressing in the exact same outfits can look a little unnatural.

Your wardrobe is a great way to subtly communicate the personalities of your family.

And as an extra benefit, clothing can bring colors and textures into your photos, which adds dimension and visual interest.

Mistake #3: Trying to be Someone Else

We've all done it: we see pictures online of another family that we love, and we hope to recreate them.

But, in the words of Mufasa, remember who you are. You want to look at these pictures and recall your family in this phase of life. So relax and be yourself. And good news, no one is better at that than you.

Mistake #4: Expecting Perfection

This one is closely relate to the one above, and it's especially true if you have kiddos. Nothing is ever going to go perfectly, and that's all right. Your kids might fuss. They may be anxious and not smile in any pictures. You and your spouse may not find the perfect romantic pose.

Let it go, friend. Beauty does not require perfection.

Mistake #5: Scheduling for the Wrong Time

Are you not a morning person? Don't schedule your shoot for the early morning.

Does your toddler REQUIRE a nap every day from 11 AM until 1 PM? Make sure you aren't scheduled for that time.

You know yourself and your family best; make sure you choose a time you will all be your very best selves.

Lightening Round: Small but Significant Mistakes

Uncomfortable Footwear: Those new shoes are cute but will the blisters show on your face?

Forgetting Snacks: Hangry faces are not happy faces.

Trying New Makeup: We've all been accidentally orange; don't do it in your photoshoot.

Season-Inappropriate Clothes: Comfortable people take cuter pictures.

Choose the Right Photographer

Ultimately the best way to avoid mistakes like these is to choose a photographer you trust to walk you through the process. That person will make sure your photos are gorgeous keepsakes you'll want to revisit for years to come.

Tiffany Crenshaw is a lifestyle newborn and family photographer based out of Huntsville Alabama. She specializes in documenting real moments for real people.

Clients typically book 3 months in advance and availability is limited. Reach out for more information!

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