5 Mistakes to Avoid When Planning Family Photos in MI
- Nikki Nosakowski
- Apr 7
- 2 min read
Updated: Apr 16
Most moms don’t realize this until it’s too late…
It’s not the kids that make or break your family photos.
It’s a few small decisions before your session even starts.
And the best part? They’re easy to fix once you know what to look for.
Planning family photos sounds simple… until you’re actually in it.
Outfits, timing, kids’ moods, trying to make everything come together without stress… it can feel like a lot, fast.
As a Metro Detroit family photographer, I see the same few mistakes happen over and over. And the truth is, most families aren’t doing anything wrong, they just don’t realize how much these small things can impact their photos.
If you’re planning a session, here are the biggest mistakes to avoid (and what to do instead).
1. Waiting Too Long to Book
This is the most common one.
Dates for family photos in Michigan, especially spring, summer, and fall evenings, go quickly. Golden hour spots are always the first to fill.
If you have a general timeframe in mind, book early. You can always figure out outfits and details after, but you can’t get your date back once it’s gone.
2. Leaving Outfits Until the Last Minute
This is where things start to feel stressful.
Last-minute outfit planning usually leads to:
• mismatched colors
• outfits that don’t photograph well
• everyone feeling a little off
The good news is, it doesn’t have to be complicated.
Planning ahead makes everything feel easier and more put together.
3. Overdressing (Especially the Kids)
When kids are uncomfortable, it shows immediately.
Stiff fabrics, itchy outfits, or anything they have to constantly adjust takes away from the natural moments you actually want.
The best family photo tips are usually the simplest:
• keep outfits breathable
• choose comfort over “perfect”
• let kids move freely
That’s where genuine expressions come from.
4. Expecting Kids to Sit Still and Smile
If that’s the expectation, everyone ends up frustrated.
My approach is focused on movement and connection, not stiff posing. Your kids don’t need to perform. They don’t need to sit perfectly or look at the camera the entire time. They just need to be themselves.
5. Putting Pressure on Everything Being Perfect
This is the one I wish more moms would let go of.
Your photos don’t need to be perfect to be meaningful. Some of the best moments happen in between … the laughs, the chaos, the quick hugs, the real life stuff. That’s what makes your family photos feel like you.
If you’ve been putting off family photos because it feels overwhelming, you’re not alone.
Most of the stress comes from not knowing what to expect or how to plan for it. Once those pieces fall into place, everything feels a lot easier.
That’s exactly what I help with.
From timing to outfits to keeping things relaxed during your session, you don’t have to figure it all out on your own.
If you’re thinking about scheduling family photos in Michigan, you can grab a spot here:
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