Get Premium
Dark mode theme is available exclusively for premium users. Learn more about the benefits of subscribing.
No fees, cancel anytime.
Dark Mode 
No fees, cancel anytime 
then open in external browser
and click "Open in External Browser" 
Family photos are often those glorious time capsules where fashion crimes, forced smiles, and pure chaos collide. Whether it’s dad rocking a mullet, mom matching the curtains, the kids’ questionable outfits, or someone’s pet stealing the spotlight, every snapshot tells a story no one quite remembers agreeing to. And that’s exactly what makes them so wonderful: the imperfect, unfiltered moments that make us laugh, cringe, and reminisce years later.
That’s exactly why the Bored Panda team has put together this collection. From matching outfits and awkward poses to expressions that scream “family drama,” these hilariously awkward family photos prove one thing: perfection is boring. Get ready for a gallery that’s part comedy, part chaos, and 100% heartwarming nostalgia.
This post may include affiliate links.
#1
The Family That Wins Halloween 2017 Goes To
Hello_my_name_is_Genevieve 1 month ago
I thought this was good before I even noticed their skin colour. This is gold!
RELATED:
#2
Scooby Doo Halloween Family
Ozymandias73 1 month ago
No cringe detected here. This is (and I'm not a big fan of Scoob) but that's awesome for a family pic.
#3
We Don't Have Camera Timer, But You Have To Be In The Family Photo!
MyName'sLisaMontoyaYouKiltMyPa 1 month ago (edited)
Brill! I need to remember to do this at Thanksgiving and Christmas dinners.
Ah, family photos, that one day when every uncle, aunt, cousin, grandma, and grandpa miraculously gathers under one roof. There’s always someone fussing about where to stand, another person running late, and at least one family member who swears they “don’t photograph well.” It’s pure chaos wrapped in smiles. But that’s what makes these photos so special; they’re less about the picture-perfect moment and more about capturing the beautiful mess that is family life.
Of course, not all families plan formal shoots. Some prefer those candid moments, a random picture snapped while decorating the Christmas tree or a blurry shot of everyone laughing around the dinner table. These spontaneous photos often end up being the real treasures because they capture the laughter, the love, and even the occasional sibling side-eye that makes your family truly yours.
#4
Our Baby Announcement Photo
My wife looked so obnoxiously thin 24 hours after delivery that I joked I looked like the one who had just delivered. So we decided to swap for a funny photo.
David Morgan 1 month ago
I think they mean 'compared to when she had a baby inside her'. Also, many women struggle to lose weight from pregnancy (you need to eat a lot when you are eating for two), others are able to change size quite rapidly.
Load More Replies...
#5
Spanish Flu, 1918. Family Portrait
Christine Wild 1 month ago
Well wear the mask now, so you can be in the next photo without one
#6
Check This Out
Blue Bunny of Happiness 1 month ago
And this is the last photograph we ever took of your brother Kevin….
Auntriarch 1 month ago
Plot twist, they are all werewolves, but the two snarling brothers and the sister are yennorks
Cpt. Christan "Panda Bombero" 1 month ago
That is most definitely a smile of fear and desperation, if I ever saw one.
Then there are those who believe weddings are the perfect opportunity for family portraits, and honestly, they might be onto something. Everyone’s already dressed to the nines, emotions are high, and the whole extended clan is conveniently in one place. Between the teary hugs and awkward dance floor moves, there’s always that one family photo that becomes a classic, the kind that resurfaces at every future wedding or family reunion.
#7
Just Your Typical Family Photo
#8
Every Family Has A Black Sheep
Tyranamar Seuss 1 month ago
It makes me feel better about them as parents that they allowed that 1 child to have his own identity.
QuincyForrest 1 month ago
Good solid church-goin' folk, but at least one of them has potential to succeed.
KatSaidWhat 1 month ago
I am second generation black sheep. I very much take after my aunt. Right down to the "hippie" clothing and Kate Bush hair.
#9
Exactly 27 Years Ago, My Mom Took The Perfect Picture Of Me And My Sister. Some Things Never Change
Hello_my_name_is_Genevieve 1 month ago
We need to know whose birthday it is to truly appreciate this.
glowworm2 1 month ago
Preventing those sneaky candle blowing ninjas from completing their mission.
Tabitha 1 month ago
Especially if their exhale always has little drops of spit in it.
Load More Replies... nicholas nolan 1 month ago
Reminds me of that video of the kid absolutley losing it because dad is blocked them from blowing out sibling's candles.. [chef kiss]
TiNaBoNiNa 1 month ago
I remember when we were small my parents took my sister and I to a restaurant that had lit candles on the tables. My sister and I loved blowing out as many as we could!
To dive deeper into what makes a truly great family photo, we spoke with Priyanka, a talented photographer from Shaadi Yaadgar, a photography studio that specializes in capturing life’s most cherished moments. Priyanka has been behind the lens for over two decades, photographing everything from dreamy weddings to chaotic family portraits, and she’s seen it all: the toddlers who refuse to smile, the grandparents who blink in every shot, and the occasional family pet that steals the spotlight.
When asked for her best tips, Priyanka starts with something simple but often overlooked: planning your outfits ahead of time. “Coordinating doesn’t mean matching head-to-toe,” she explains with a laugh. “Think about colors that complement each other and suit the season. During fall, warm tones like rust, mustard, and olive look fantastic. In summer, light pastels or whites can make your photos pop without looking too staged.”
#10
My Dad Would Always Gripe That He Didn't Have Any Family Photos Of Me And My Brother. A Few Christmas Ago We Had This Made. He Hasn't Said A Word About Family Photos Since
The Majestic Opossum 1 month ago
This is amazing. I hope my kids love me enough to get a photo like this for me when they're older 😂
#11
I Really Didn't Want To Hold Them
Anne Roberts 1 month ago
I'm a mom and a grandma and that made me laugh!! 😁
Load More Replies...
Marlowe Fitzpatrik 1 month ago
I absolutely can relate. There's a picture of me scowling at my then-little brother... And that was only ONE!
Mary Hurst 1 month ago
I know that feeling, every time someone asks me if I’d like to hold their baby. Heck no!
#12
The Chances Of Being Ended By A Baby Are Low, But Not Zero
UnclePanda 1 month ago
They haven't remade The Shining yet but I have a feeling it's in the cards.
Sam Trudeau 1 month ago
Looks almost like they copy-pasted the face of one baby onto the other. I understand twins exist, but the exact same face?
Auntriarch 1 month ago
I did suspect that myself, but the hair is different and the left ears slightly
Load More Replies... WalterWhiteSavannah 1 month ago
20 some odd years later they achieved their destiny and became the greatest heel tag team champions in WWE history.
Her next piece of advice might sound small but makes a big difference: empty your pockets! “Phones, keys, wallets, hair clips—you’d be surprised how often these things show up in photos,” Priyanka says. “You don’t want a rectangular phone outline ruining that perfect family shot!” It’s a gentle reminder that even the tiniest details can make or break a picture.
#13
Best Family Photo Ever
Karl der Große 1 month ago
That's my family (as far as anybody knows). I'm going to send this one out this year.
#14
So My Sis Wanted A Silly Family Photo
#15
Family Photos Can Be Lots Of Fun, But For Evan They Were A Bit Of A Drag
Doofnuts 1 month ago
Do you know how hard it is to get grass stains out of Denim? Oh the horror!
nottheactualphoto 1 month ago
Detergent commercials have kept me informed on this important issue.
Load More Replies...And don’t forget about footwear. Yes, seriously. “People often focus so much on outfits that they forget shoes matter too,” Priyanka adds. “If it’s a full-length picture, mismatched footwear can really stand out. You don’t want dad in sneakers while everyone else is in formal shoes, or someone teetering in heels they can’t walk in. Comfort and coordination go hand in hand!”
#16
The Halloween Costumes Of Neil Patrick Harris And His Family
amy lee 1 month ago
They are always good... But I suppose when you have the best costume and make up people in your contacts you should make use of it.
Tabitha 1 month ago (edited)
Yeah, but you still have to come up with—-and all agree on—-the theme before you start making those calls. (PS-I still think of him as Doogie Howser.)
Load More Replies... KatSaidWhat 1 month ago
Every year they are great but I lost a little respect with the Amy Winehouse stunt.
Lila Allen 1 month ago
I know he feels badly about that. Sometimes you think of something and the filter fails to catch. We've all done or said something we thought was funny, but it was too soon or insensitive. His just happened to be massively public
Load More Replies...
#17
Our Latest Family Photo
PurpleTribe 1 month ago
I could kind of work with the theme if that psychopath in the back left wasn’t in the photo. I have questions, with answers I probably don’t need to know
#18
Just Another Family Photo
Teutonic Disaster 1 month ago
Dressing up a baby as a sailor gives a whole new meaning to the phrase "fresh off the boat", doesn't it?
Tabitha 1 month ago (edited)
Yeah, and this baby looks like a balding, forty-ish, career ordinary seaman halfway through a three day pass.
Load More Replies... 
Another trick of the trade? Grouping people smartly. “Coupling family members together always looks great,” Priyanka shares. “Parents with kids, grandparents surrounded by grandkids, cousins lined up together—these natural groupings create warmth and connection. Plus, it helps organize big families without turning it into a game of musical chairs.”
#19
Tried To Take A Family Photo
WalterWhiteSavannah 1 month ago
The pup in front has some incredible markings. Black metal af.
Auntriarch 1 month ago
This reminds me of one of our family photos (I was the one being yelled at)
Anne Roberts 1 month ago
Mama dog in the back is like, "Can't we just have one nice family picture??"
#20
My Roommates And I Decided To Do A Family Photo To Put On The Wall Above Our TV
Cpt. Christan "Panda Bombero" 1 month ago
Independent remake of 'The Office'? (I have actually never watched the show. British or United States).
#21
Just My Friend's Family Photo
Lila Allen 1 month ago
I'm not sure which face is more hilarious.. this is peak weird family photo
Load More Replies... 
Props, too, can add a fun twist. “Don’t shy away from using props,” Priyanka advises. “A simple flower bouquet, a pet, or even a family heirloom can make the photo feel more personal. It gives people something to do with their hands and helps them relax in front of the camera.” Whether it’s holding mugs of hot cocoa or tossing autumn leaves, props can bring out genuine smiles.
#22
A While Back, We Tried To Take Family Photos At The Beach. The Results Were.... Unexpected
Otto Katz 1 month ago
Earliest record of it showing up is September , 2013
Load More Replies... 
#23
Family Photo At The Falls
UnclePanda 1 month ago
It was probably the lowest point in monster movie history - Poncho, The Sucking Death.
Load More Replies... #24
I Never Truly Understood What It’s Like To Grow Up With Siblings Until I Found This Gem Of A Photo In My Wife’s Family Album
WalterWhiteSavannah 1 month ago
Back in elementary we played a "game" in my buddies unfinished basement where we'd put sleeping bags over ourselves turn off the lights and just beat the hell out of eachother in the pitch black. This is relatable.
Aleane Schligo 1 month ago
We had bunk beds, 3 of us. We'd switch off the lights, jump on the top bunk and kick the sh8t out of each other and the last one on the top bunk won. We used duvets as padding on the floor. So totally relatable.
Load More Replies...
TiNaBoNiNa 1 month ago
The Gen X version of the Hunger Games. Only the strong siblings survive.
But perhaps her favorite tip of all is this: embrace the imperfect moments. “While posed pictures are lovely, candids often tell the real story,” Priyanka says. “A shared laugh, a toddler running off, someone fixing their hair—those are the shots that capture personality and emotion. Family photos aren’t meant to be flawless; they’re meant to be real.”
#25
A Glorious Family Photo Of My Parents And Me From Around 1974. I Wish You Still Had Those Pants In An Adult Size
Tabitha 1 month ago
But Dad kinda looks like Mungo Jerry. Thankfully, Mom’s DNA is strong.
Load More Replies...
Teutonic Disaster 1 month ago
The headline combined with the pose of the young lad give off a certain "fancy pants" vibe, don't you think? 🏳️🌈😉
Bryan Wright 1 month ago
I'm sure if you looked hard enough you might locate a pair in a golf shop.
#26
As We Wrapped Up My Family's Christmas Eve Party, We Wanted To Get A Group Photo
I thought a 3 second delay was enough time to run into position, so I hit the button, ran (carelessly), and well...this is how it came out... FYI: I own a pair of florescent yellow Nike shoes.
#27
I Came Across This Photo In A Box In My Parents’ Garage Of My Family And Me. And No, This Wasn’t Halloween. I Just Liked To Dress This Way
Oerff On Tour 1 month ago
And then there are people who think coulrofobie doesn't make any sense
And that’s exactly what makes these quirky, hilarious family photos so special. They remind us that imperfection is part of the charm, that life isn’t meant to be airbrushed or perfectly framed. So as you scroll through these delightfully awkward posts, laugh, cringe, and maybe even feel a little nostalgic. Which one made you laugh the hardest? And be honest—do you have a family photo that could give these a run for their money?
#28
We Are Visiting ‘Crocodile City’, And After Seeing The Crocs And Snakes, The Kids Asked To Pet The Roaming Tortoises. We Obliged And Then Turned To See Them Watching A Pretty Racy Show
Austzn 1 month ago
This happened to me and my kids at a Zoo with roo's. Most of the parents moved their kids away in a panic. When my kids asked what they were doing (they were fairly young still) I just told them they're making baby kangaroos and then we moved to the next exhibit.
Caryne Ag 1 month ago (edited)
I worked at a zoo for several years and came across a family with 2 kids one day standing in front of the monkey enclosure. Suddenly the monkeys started going at it and I fully expected the parents to shuffle the kids away to another exhibit as most parents do. Instead all four of them leaned in to watch and said, "WOW!" 😄
#29
My Friend’s Family Christmas Card
Auntriarch 1 month ago
Tweed? Collar and tie? Zip up cardigans? Now that you mention it, I'd really like an update
Load More Replies...
WalterWhiteSavannah 1 month ago (edited)
Awful bunch of people but upvote cause I love me some mayhem. Legendary band and beyond insane lore behind the music. *the band not that family.
Roxy222uk 1 month ago
Glad you added the last bit! I thought that was a bit harsh for them not getting into the Christmas spirit
Load More Replies... 
#30
My Brothers And I Back In The Sweet Sweet 90s
WalterWhiteSavannah 1 month ago
Over or under 100? The number of times each of these people saw terminator and t2.
#31
Me And My Dad During Potty Training
KatSaidWhat 1 month ago
We got y'all open, now ya floatin' So you gots to s**t for me
Load More Replies... Sam Trudeau 1 month ago
Personally, I don't understand people who take photos of this. The "dry" chart? Okay. The kid actively doing... this? Not something I understand
#32
Bought My Family Customized T-Shirts With My Face On Them. They Loved It
Gingersnap In Iowa 1 month ago
I have a tee shirt that says ' I'm Dad's Favorite ' my brother doesn't find it funny 🤣
BeesEelsAndPups 1 month ago
I set my parents wifi password to BeesIsOurFavorite. My brothers think it's hilarious
Load More Replies...
#33
This Is The Last Year I'm Ever Going To Be Put In Charge Of Our Family Photo
#34
Grandma Made These Wonderful Crochet Vests For Each Of My Husband’s Siblings. He Looks Strangely Happy About It (Far Right)
Lousha 1 month ago
If you know basic crochet, you don't need a pattern for this.
Load More Replies... 
#35
Halloween 1989. That's Me On The Right. My Sister Is Behind Me And About To Have A Really Bad Day
Tabitha 1 month ago
Now we know where Robin Williams got his inspiration from.
Load More Replies...
Bryan Wright 1 month ago
I would get that young girls shoes seen too, as they are obviously way too bouncy.
Mary Tonningsen 1 month ago
Oh, that Grandma is gonna feel guilty for the rest of her life... :'(
#36
Post A More Awkward Family Photo Than This
Mike F 1 month ago
Change the lipstick and that guy could do a fair Robert Smith impersonation.
GalPalAl 1 month ago
You took the thought right out of my head about who it reminded me of
Load More Replies... Bryan Wright 1 month ago
OMG. That child will grow up suffering from nightmares and daymares too.
#37
We Had Family Photos And My Wife Doesn't Want This Hanging In Our Entrance
#38
Just Found This Cute Picture Of Me And My Cousin, And My Psycho Brother In The Background
#39
Family Photo
#40
Dad Never Fails To Fart During Family Photos
#41
My Awkward Family Photo Recreation Complete With Handmade Adult Onesie
Fire Singer 1 month ago
I love these recreations so much! I wanted to do them with my siblings this year as a Christmas present for my mom but then one of my brothers decided to disown his and his wife's families, again...not the first time he's done this. So guess that won't be happening.
Nathan Shipman 1 month ago
"Everyday on your own, and here it goes. I'm just a kiiiiiid and my life is a nightmare"
#42
Circa 2001. My Twin Brother And I Had A Tendency Of Blowing Out Our Older Brothers Birthday Candles, So My Grandparents Came To The Rescue
#43
We Had A Family Photo Shoot And I Picked The Outfits
#44
My Wife Needed A Nap
Lila Allen 1 month ago
Your wife needs support staff. I honestly don't know how parents of twins survive. I barely managed my kids one at a time.
#45
Funny Family Photo
WalterWhiteSavannah 1 month ago (edited)
That's the day they discovered brother Timmy smoked weed and that their beloved rescue was a d**g dog that didn't make the cut.
#46
My Family Thought They Were So Clever Doing “The Lean” In Pictures
Jane Doe 1 month ago
Am I jealous? Yes. Will I be doing that for the next family photo? Also yes.
Load More Replies...
#47
We Had Just Moved To Arizona And Our Parents Took Us Out To The Desert To Get A Nice Christmas Card Photo With The Family Dog. This Was The Photo The Card Company Printed On 200 Cards
Lousha 1 month ago
I don't know 200 people altogether, much less people I'd like to send any sort of card to.
CooperDooper81 1 month ago
I can think of 200 people to send a card to but it wouldn't be a nice card
Load More Replies... #48
Our Latest Family Portrait
WalterWhiteSavannah 1 month ago
I know he had to be frodo for the pic but that dude legit looks like pippin.
KatSaidWhat 1 month ago
Actual LOL... some photos you will regret later although you will get many lols.
#49
My Mother Was Taking The Photo And Told Us To Look At The Light To Avoid Red Eye. And There Are Dolls On My Grandparents' Laps For Some Reason
#50
I’m In The Chair, The Dentist Is My Uncle, And For Some Reason My Grandmother Decided This Was A Great Time For A Family Picture
SkyBlueandBlack 1 month ago
I'd have let go with one hand to raise a finger.
Load More Replies... #51
Dad Got Mad When We Weren't Cooperating For Our Family Xmas Photo
#52
Inspired By Others I Saw So I Though I'd Share My Early 90's Family Photo
#53
While Taking A Family Photo, My Dad Realized That The Glare Off The TV Made My Cousin Look A Little Bit Like Jesus. We Reacted Accordingly
Sam Trudeau 1 month ago
I have a similar photo. Climbed up a tall hill, the sun behind me made it look like I was being blessed by God. Or it could have actually been me being blessed by God, I don't know.
#54
Trying To Recreate A Family Photo, But Just Traumatizing The Dog Instead
Lukas (he/him, it/its) 1 month ago
Judging by the grey on the muzzle, I'd assume so!
Load More Replies... #55
The Most Awkward Family Photo
Bryan Wright 1 month ago
I'm hoping that it's just some random stranger that decided to sneak in and get they're photo taken..
#56
Family Photos Were Never The Same Again
Jill 1 month ago
If it's not the girl with the long blonde hair then there's a ghost in the picture. 🤔
Load More Replies... #57
Here’s My Brother With His Hockey Trophy And Medal, And Then There’s Me.. Proudly Showing Off My Onion Ring. Circa 1997
Mary Tonningsen 1 month ago
I'd trade the trophy and paper for a good onion ring any day of the week!
#58
My Brother Pulled Out His iPhone At Thanksgiving With Our Amish Family
Lila Allen 1 month ago
I think that's just house Amish not church Amish. Some sects are stricter than others.
Load More Replies...
MyName'sLisaMontoyaYouKiltMyPa 1 month ago
Mennonite…Amish light…they can have colored clothes, drive cars, and have photos taken.
#59
This Is What True Love Looks Like. My Mom Taking A Picture Of My Dad Acting Like He’s Stuck In The Dryer
#60
My Dad On A Pool Day With The Family
Lila Allen 1 month ago
And mum was able to stay home and raise them.... sigh
Load More Replies...
#61
My Mom Forced Me To Wear Pink And I Did Not Want To Be In A Photo (2006)
Tabitha 1 month ago (edited)
Parents: Do NOT force your kids to wear clothing they hate, no matter if it’s the style, the color, or whatever. And FFS, tell anyone who is planning on getting your kids clothing as gifts what each one of them likes, and more importantly, DISLIKES! Once they get to be adolescents, have those people just send gift cards so the kids can pick out their own clothes. Mark my words, you might forget about it that same day, but your kid(s) will remember it the rest of their lives.
#62
My Dad's Idea Of A Family Photo At Disneyland Paris Last Year...(Posing In Front Of A Genie Lamp)
#63
I Used To Be Quite Obnoxious
Jennifer Brown 1 month ago
are those your underwear? did you remove them while still wearing your pants?
#64
My Kids Love Taking Family Photos
#66
I Got To Choose The Theme For The Family Christmas Photo
#67
This Is A Family Photo, Circa 1997, Of My Grandmother And Her Grandchildren, (Including Me, The Girl On The Right In The Pink Dress)
Karen Lyon 1 month ago
The memory this brings back! There was one Christmas where we were all at my parents' for the holiday. By all of us, I mean our parents, me, my sister, my three brothers, two SILs, my then BIL, and 5 of the 6 oldest of the grandkids. ALL boys. The youngest two were 2 and 4. One was squirmy like the one on the right the other totally the screamer at the bottom. The other three boys were more like the bored guys at the back. Being preteens, I thnghi they were more like, why do we have to dress up for this? The portrait never got done. We went home, squished together on/around my parents' sofa, and a friend of one of my brothers used our Mom's camera. The little ones still weren't thrilled, but they were more pouty, and not melting down.
#68
My Family's Christmas Photo This Year
Bill Swallow 1 month ago
"So - Polynesian Singer Don Ho put his domicile on the market. I bought it so I could say I live in a Ho House." (Ba-DUMP-thud! Thenk Kew, I'll be here all week!)
Sam Trudeau 1 month ago
Better idea: A shirt for the three girls saying "bom" and then "another one bites the dust". Not to imply anything, just for the pun
Marlene Ricker 1 month ago
I think this is hilarious, in spite of the nasty comments! Good looking ladies in that family!
#69
Typical Reddit Family
#70
Went To Infinity On The Gold Coast, We Were Forced To Wear White Shoe Covers And Gloves. We Don’t Know Why
#71
This Is Why Dogs Hate To Be In Family Photo
WalterWhiteSavannah 1 month ago
Ummm... I could say something here but I'll just leave it at wow that's an awkward way to pose with a dog there dad.
KatSaidWhat 1 month ago
You said what needed to be said on behalf of us who weren't quite sure how to phrase...
Load More Replies... #72
I See Your T-Shirt For Your Sister And Raise You T-Shirts For The Family
Add New Image
Explore more of these tags
What do you think ?
You May Like 45 People Share The Funniest Pics They Have With Their Siblings, Prove It’s A Blessing And A Curse To Have Them 50 Hilarious Posts From This Account Dedicated To Sharing “Men’s Humor” (New Pics) 50 Incidents Where People Did Precisely What They Were Told, And The Results Were Hilarious (New Pics)
Taura Šitkauskaitė
Greta Jaruševičiūtė
Donata Ruzgaitė
Related on Bored Panda
