Five Myths, Mistakes, and Misconceptions About Family Portraits

Considering a family portrait? Great! Few decisions bring as much lasting joy as capturing the love and connection of your family. But before you gather your loved ones in front of a camera, it’s essential to know a few key facts.

Below are five common myths, mistakes, and misconceptions that most people don't know about family portraits. If you avoid these, you'll have a portrait that becomes a cherished family treasure.

1. “There’s no way to guarantee I will love my family portraits.”

Reality: You absolutely CAN have a guarantee—if you choose the right photographer.

Imagine you’ve paid for a family portrait, but your child’s smile looks forced, or your expressions feel stiff and unnatural. Should you have to pay for that? Absolutely not! That’s why I offer a double guarantee:

1. If you’re not thrilled with the portraits, I’ll re-do the session at no charge.

2. If I still can’t deliver a portrait you’ll cherish forever, I’ll refund every penny you’ve invested.

When you’re choosing a photographer, make sure they offer a guarantee like this. If they’re confident in their abilities, they’ll stand behind their work 100%.

2. “All family portraits are created equal.”

Reality: Not even close.

You’ve probably thought about having a family member or friend with a "nice camera" take your family portrait. But here’s the question: What’s the value of a portrait that captures your family’s love, connection, and joy at its best?

Just like you wouldn’t trust your health to the “cheapest” doctor, you shouldn’t trust your family’s memories to the cheapest photographer. Choose someone who doesn’t just know how to take a photo—choose someone who knows how to bring out your family’s authentic emotions.

I’ve dedicated my career to being a "memory giver" because I understand the irreplaceable value of family portraits. Having lost loved ones, I know the priceless comfort a cherished family portrait can provide.

3. “Family portraits have to be taken in a stuffy, boring studio.”

Reality: Your portraits should be as unique as your family.

When you think of a professional family portrait, do you picture everyone awkwardly posed in front of a painted backdrop? That’s not how I work.

Imagine a portrait session at your home, outside on your deck, or in your backyard under the shade of a favorite tree. You’re all wearing clothes that showcase your personalities, not stiff "matching outfits."

My goal is for every family member to feel completely comfortable. I’ll never say “say cheese!” because I know that’s a shortcut to fake smiles. Instead, I’ll connect with each person—even the most camera-shy—so everyone looks authentic, joyful, and natural.

4. “There’s no one to help me with clothing, hair, makeup, or location choices.”

Reality: A great photographer will guide you every step of the way.

Choosing the right clothing, hairstyle, and location for your portraits can be stressful—but it doesn’t have to be. I’m here to make the process simple. I’ll offer tips on what colors work best for your family’s look, how to coordinate without being "matchy," and what locations will give your photos that personal touch.

Even if I’m not your photographer, I’m happy to offer you guidance so you can feel 100% prepared for your family portrait session.

5. “There’s no rush to have a family portrait created right now.”

Reality: Time waits for no one.

You might be thinking, "I’ll schedule a family portrait once things calm down." But here’s the truth—life never slows down. Kids grow up, people move away, and before you know it, those moments you thought you’d have "forever" are gone.

Think of all the milestones your family experiences—first steps, learning to ride a bike, graduations, marriages. These are moments you’ll never get back. By capturing your family’s love today, you’re preserving a piece of your family’s story that can be cherished forever.

Final Thoughts

Don’t let myths or misconceptions stop you from creating a family portrait that will be a lifelong treasure. If you’re considering having a family portrait created, I’m here to help you every step of the way.