They say when life gives you lemons, make lemonade, but what do you do when life throws mosquitos at your family photo session? Such was the case during my recent session with the Byrd family, armed with a solid plan to take their photos at Old Waynesborough Park. Planning outdoor photos always comes with a little element of surprise, usually in the form of the weather, but that surprise coming in the form of mosquitos was a first!


As we headed into the park on a beautifully sunny day for family photos, there was an air of excitement. The Byrd family had smiles on their faces, ready to create memories. Then, a single mosquito, drawn by the allure of an unsuspecting victim, emerged from the shadows. The tranquility of our session was suddenly shattered when this rogue mosquito, determined to be the star of the show, descended upon Lily, who bore the brunt of their relentless bites. Her face was soon showing the telltale signs of those pesky mosquitoes, but Holly saved the day with allergy medicine she had in the car! 



In the wake of the mosquito chaos, Lily, despite her initial discomfort, was an absolute trooper. With Lily's courage leading the way, we decided to pivot the Byrd family’s session to downtown Goldsboro. This impromptu change of scenery still offered a beautiful backdrop!

Lessons in Adaptability

Photography is an art, and like any art, it's not immune to the unexpected. When faced with unexpected challenges during a session, adaptability is the key to turning a potential setback into an opportunity. Here's some ideas for how you can think on your feet and pivot if something in a session is not going right:


  • Stay Calm and Assess: First identify the issue. Understanding the problem is crucial for finding a solution.
  • Flexibility is Your Ally: Be open to changing your plan. Embrace the unpredictability of the moment and look for alternative opportunities.
  • Communication is Key: Whether you're behind the lens or in front of it, clear communication ensures that everyone involved is informed about the evolving situation. This creates a collaborative approach which can spark creative solutions.
  • Prioritize Problem-Solving: Rather than dwelling on the issue, focus on finding solutions. A positive attitude can often turn a challenging situation into a creative opportunity.
  • Learn from Every Session: Use each unexpected challenge as a learning experience! Strive to take something from the session that will enable you to be more adaptable in the future.


When mosquitos threw a curveball at our carefully planned family session, the Byrds didn't falter. They displayed a commitment to making the best of the situation. The lesson here is clear: adaptability is not just a valuable skill for photographers; it's a mindset that anyone can use to open the door to remarkably unexpected outcomes.


If you're ready to capture your own family's unique story, don't hesitate to reach out and schedule a session. The most extraordinary moments often arise from the least expected circumstances, and I'm here to help you seize them with open arms and a camera in hand!