How to Avoid the Most Common Family Photo Fails (No Matching Outfits Required)

By: Images Studios Photographic Arts

Planning a family photo session can feel like herding cats while juggling snacks and trying to guess the weather forecast three days out. But here’s the good news: you’re not doing this alone.

At Images Studios in Cold Lake, every session starts with a free, no-pressure consultation where we talk through all the things - what to wear, how to pose, what to expect, and how to keep the kids (and adults) smiling. This is where the magic starts, and it’s a big reason why my clients don’t fall into those “common photo mistakes” you see floating around Pinterest.

But for anyone feeling a little unsure (or just wanting to avoid the scroll-hole of bad advice), here’s what actually matters and how we do things differently.

1. The What do We Wear? Spiral

Let’s just say it: matching outfits for the whole fam went out with early 2000s denim. You don’t need to show up in identical white shirts and jeans. In fact, please don’t.

Instead, during your consultation, we’ll pick a color palette that works for your family and the vibe you’re going for. Think soft neutrals, earthy tones, jewel colors - whatever suits your style. I’ll show you how to mix textures and tones without looking like you tried too hard. It’s about looking coordinated, not cookie-cutter.

Cold Lake Family Photo Tip: Skip the busy logos, super bold prints, or anything neon. Trust me. Let the love (not the loud shirt) be the focus.

2. Timing is Everything (And, Yes, We Talk About Naps)

Trying to photograph hungry toddlers or overtired teens is like trying to reason with a raccoon in your garbage bin. No thanks.

We’ll choose a time of day that makes sense for your crew - when everyone’s well-fed, well-rested, and not just crawling in from work or soccer practice. And if you’re up for it, we’ll chase that golden hour light because wow, it delivers that warm, glowy magic that makes your family look like they stepped out of a magazine.

Pro tip: The best light doesn’t matter if the vibes are off. I’ll help you find that sweet spot where lighting and mood align.

3. We Don't Play the Weather App Game Too Early

Here’s the deal with outdoor photos in Northern Alberta: the forecast changes faster than a toddler’s snack preference. I don’t reschedule sessions based on what the weather says the day before - we wait until day-of and make the call that afternoon. I know how hard it is to get everyone together. It’s not easy to align work schedules, travel plans, or get everyone clean and dressed at the same time. So unless it’s pouring, we’re usually still a go - and yes, the weather often surprises us in the best way. If we do need to reschedule, heads-up: my calendar books up quickly, so the next date might be a bit of a wait. But I’ll always make sure you’re taken care of.

4. You’re Not Expected to Just Know What You Want

You don’t have to show up with a shot list or Pinterest board in hand (though if you have one, I’m happy to peek). That’s what your consult is for.

We’ll talk through everything - the overall vibe, candid vs. posed, what parts of your home these photos will live in, and if there’s anyone special you want to include. This is your story. My job is to help you tell it in a way that feels natural and beautiful, not forced or staged. 

Cold Lake Lifestyle Photography Tip: It isn’t just about snapping a pretty photo - it’s about capturing something that feels real. That starts with getting to know you first.

5. Kids Will Be Kids - and That’s Okay

Whether it’s wild toddlers or moody teens, every family brings their own energy - and that’s part of the charm. The biggest mistake? Not prepping the kids at all.

You don’t need a pep talk worthy of a Pixar movie, but giving your kids a little heads-up goes a long way. Let them know we’re doing photos, tell them it’s going to be fun, and maybe even let them bring a favorite snack or small toy (bonus: bribery snacks double as secret mood-lifters mid-shoot).

We’ll also talk about what works best for your child during our consultation. If there’s sensory stuff, neurodivergence, or anything you want me to know to make things easier - just say the word. I’m here for it. We don’t do cookie-cutter. We do custom.

Let’s Make This Easy (And Actually Enjoyable)

Family photography should never feel stressful. At Images Studios, I guide you through the whole process - from wardrobe to wall art - so you can show up feeling confident, prepared, and totally yourself.

Because when you feel good, the photos show it.

If you’re looking for a family photographer in the Cold Lake or Bonnyville Area who gets it, who cares about the details and the chaos, and who can turn your real-life moments into something you’ll love forever - you’re in the right place.

📍 Serving: Bonnyville | Cold Lake | Pierceland | St. Paul | Glendon | Lakeland Area

📸 Specializing In: Family Portraits | Outdoor Family Photos | Playful Lifestyle Photography | Natural, Timeless Photography
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