Common Mistakes People Make During Photoshoots (and How to Avoid Them)
- Justin
- Apr 30
- 4 min read
We’ve all been there. You’re standing in front of the camera, unsure what to do with your hands, hoping your smile doesn’t look weird, and wondering if your outfit was a mistake. Even the most photogenic people have moments of uncertainty. Trust me — I see it all the time.
As a local photographer here in Amsterdam, I’ve spotted a few patterns: the same common mistakes that keep people from getting the photos they truly love. The good news? These slip-ups are totally avoidable.
So whether you’re planning a shoot in the tulip fields, along the canals, or in one of Amsterdam’s cozy alleyways, here are the most frequent photography mistakes to avoid — and how to fix them with ease.
Mistake #1: Not Preparing Ahead of Time
You’ve booked the shoot, but suddenly it’s the night before and everything feels chaotic.
Why It Happens
Life gets busy. You book a shoot, then suddenly it’s the day before and you haven’t thought about what to wear or how to get to the location.
Why It Matters
Last-minute stress shows up in your body language and facial expressions. You want to walk into your shoot feeling relaxed and ready, not rushed and frazzled.
How to Avoid It
Plan your outfit(s) at least a few days in advance.
Check the weather forecast and pack accordingly (layers, umbrella, etc.).
Confirm the location and meeting time with your photographer.
Mistake #2: Overthinking Every Pose
Why It Happens
You want to look your best, so you try to control every hand, foot, and facial angle. But in doing so, you often lose that relaxed, natural energy.
Why It Matters
Photos come alive when you feel like yourself. Over-posing can make you look stiff or uncomfortable.
How to Avoid It
Trust your photographer to guide you.
Focus on the moment, not the mirror.
Think about something that genuinely makes you smile.
Mistake #3: Treating It Like a Photoshoot, Not an Experience
You’re focused on getting the perfect Instagram shot — but it’s starting to feel like a chore.
Why It Happens
Sometimes people show up thinking it’s just about snapping a few quick pictures. But great portraits are about connection, energy, and shared experience.
Why It Matters
When you’re focused only on "getting the shot," you miss out on the magic that happens between the shots. That’s often where the most beautiful images come from.
How to Avoid It
Think of the session as part of your trip, not a task.
Let your personality lead the way: dance, joke, talk.
Book extra time if you want to shoot in multiple locations or just take it slow.
Mistake #4: Staying Glued to Your Phone Before the Shoot
Why It Happens
You're trying to coordinate plans, check directions, or maybe just scroll away some nerves before your shoot starts.
Why It Matters
Looking at a screen right before your session can break your connection with the present moment. It also affects posture and mood — two things that really show in photos.
How to Avoid It
Give yourself 10–15 screen-free minutes before the session.
Use that time to take a few deep breaths, enjoy the surroundings, or chat casually with your photographer.
Be present — your mindset going into the shoot makes a big difference.
Mistake #5: Wearing the Wrong Outfit
You threw on something trendy — but now you’re tugging at it and second-guessing every photo.
Why It Happens
It’s tempting to wear your favorite bold print or that brand-new outfit you haven’t tested. But not all clothes work well on camera.
Why It Matters
Busy patterns, neon colors, or uncomfortable shoes can distract from the overall look. You want timeless, flattering style that highlights you.
How to Avoid It
Stick to simple, solid colors.
Avoid logos and heavy branding.
Wear something that fits well and makes you feel confident.
Mistake #6: Forgetting to Communicate With Your Photographer
You’re hoping your photographer just ‘gets it’ — but you’re not quite sure you’re on the same page.
Why It Happens
You assume your photographer will read your mind. But they’re not in your head (yet).
Why It Matters
The best shoots are collaborative. If you don’t share your vision, preferences, or concerns, you might end up with something that doesn’t reflect your style.
How to Avoid It
Share a mood board or Pinterest inspo.
Let your photographer know what kind of shots you love (and what you don’t).
Be honest about anything that makes you self-conscious.
Bonus Mistake: Comparing Yourself to Others
You catch yourself thinking, “I’ll never look like the people I see on Instagram.”
Why It Happens
You scroll through Instagram and think, "I’ll never look like that." Newsflash: those people felt the same way before their shoot.
Why It Matters
Comparison kills creativity. It puts pressure on you to perform instead of enjoy.
How to Avoid It
Focus on your unique vibe.
Remember: confidence and connection always win.
Let go of perfect, and aim for real.
Final Thoughts
There’s no such thing as a perfect photoshoot — but with a little planning, communication, and trust, yours can be effortless and beautiful.
If you’re dreaming of stunning portraits in Amsterdam and want someone to guide you through every step (and help you avoid all the common missteps), I’d love to work with you.
Book your shoot now and let’s capture your story, your way.
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