10 common photography errors avoid | Deborah Longmore Photography
Photography is supposed to capture magic—but even the most gorgeous moments can get ruined by little mistakes. At Deborah Longmore Photography, we’ve seen it all. Here are the most common photography errors and some easy ways to fix them so your photos look flawless.
1. Crooked Horizons
Nothing screams “oops” like a tilted horizon. Landscapes, cityscapes, or even a portrait with a background line can feel off if it’s not straight.
Pro Tip: Turn on your camera’s grid lines and double-check before you hit that shutter.
2. Wrong Angles on Faces
Shooting from the wrong angle can flatten features or exaggerate lines. A tiny tilt of the chin or slight turn of the head can make a huge difference. Likewise, shooting down on a person or up the nose is also a no no!
Pro Tip: Focus on the subject’s eyes—they’re the heart of the portrait!
3. Focusing on the Wrong Area
Blurry eyes = instantly meh. Focusing on the nose, hair, or background instead of the eyes is a rookie mistake we see all the time.
Pro Tip: Use single-point autofocus and lock onto the eye closet to the camera before shooting.
4. Lens Distortions
Wide-angle lenses too close to the subject = body parts being the wrong size. Ever see a photo where a kids feet are almost as big (or bigger) than their head. This is because a wrong lens has been used and sizes are distorted. Telephoto lenses too far = flattened features. Every lens has its quirks and their ideal use.
Pro Tip: For portraits, stick to 50mm–85mm to make everyone look their best or on location a 70-200mm lens.
5. Bad Lighting
Lighting is tricky. Too dark and you lose detail, too bright and highlights get “blown.” Shadows in the wrong spots can make your subject look tired or weirdly angled.
Pro Tip: Keep the light soft, and make sure it hits the eyes for that sparkle!
6. Awkward Poses
Especially with newborns, bad posing can look uncomfortable—or even unsafe. Even adults can look stiff if posed poorly.
Pro Tip: Keep poses natural, relaxed, and safe. Comfort is key!
7. Editing Mistakes
Editing can make or break a photo. Common pitfalls? Overdone skin smoothing, leaving creases on backdrops, or ignoring stray hairs.
Pro Tip: Less is more. Subtle, clean edits make photos shine without looking fake.
8. Poor Composition
Even perfect lighting and focus can’t save a photo if your subject is off-center or a cluttered background steals the show.
Pro Tip: Use the rule of thirds and tidy up the background when possible.
9. Perspective Problems
Wrong lens or shooting distance can stretch or squash your subject in weird ways.
Pro Tip: Step back, zoom in, or swap lenses to get natural-looking proportions.
10. Color and Exposure Issues
Mismatched colors, skin tones that look off, or exposure that’s too bright/dark can make a photo feel “off” even if everything else is perfect.
Pro Tip: Adjust white balance, keep colors natural, and double-check exposure.
The Takeaway:
Even small mistakes can make a big difference, but now you know what to watch out for!
At Deborah Longmore Photography, we focus on every tiny detail—from lighting and posing to focus and editing—so your photos look flawless every single time.
Thinking of Becoming a Newborn Photographer? Or Looking for a Newborn Photography Trainer?
Here’s what to do:
✅ Research their portfolio thoroughly, is their work a high standard, is the posing and editing correct, or is their work recognised,
✅ Ask about their training history — both received and given
✅ Look for a consistent standard of safety and excellence
✅ Talk to past students
✅ Trust your gut — if something feels off, it probably is
If you’re passionate about newborn photography and want to learn from someone who prioritises safety, quality, and growth — I offer newborn photography training tailored to all levels, whether you’re just starting or looking to refine your skills.
💛 Ready to learn the right way?
📩 Message me to chat about mentoring options or upcoming training dates.
Let’s raise the standard of newborn photography — together.
📩 Message me to chat about your session. I can’t wait to meet you and your little one!
Ready to Book Your Newborn Photography Training Session in Tamworth or Birmingham?
I’d love to capture these precious moments for your family.
Book your newborn session in Tamworth or Birmingham today to enjoy these benefits firsthand
👉 Contact Deborah Longmore Photography to find out more
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