There’s something truly magical about family gatherings—the laughter, the shared stories, and the bond that ties generations together. As a photographer, capturing these precious moments is one of the most rewarding aspects of my job. Extended family sessions, in particular, offer a unique opportunity to document the love and connection that span across generations. Whether it's a reunion, a holiday celebration, or just a special get-together, these sessions create timeless memories that everyone can cherish.


Why Extended Family Sessions are Special

Extended family sessions are about more than just taking pictures. They’re about capturing the essence of family. When multiple generations come together, the result is a beautiful tapestry of relationships, histories, and love. These sessions often include grandparents, parents, children, and sometimes even great-grandchildren. Each person brings their own unique energy and personality, making the photos rich with emotion and meaning.


One of the most heartwarming aspects of extended family sessions is seeing the interactions between different generations. Watching grandparents play with their grandchildren or siblings share a laugh brings a sense of continuity and connection. It’s a reminder of where we come from and the legacies we’re building for the future.


Planning Your Extended Family Session

Planning an extended family session can seem like a daunting task, but it doesn’t have to be. With a bit of preparation and some flexibility, it can be a fun and enjoyable experience for everyone involved. Here are some tips to help you get started:

  1. Choose the Right Time and Place: The first step is to find a time and place that works for everyone. Consider the availability of family members and choose a location that is convenient and meaningful. Whether it’s a favourite park, a family home, or a beach, the location should reflect the family’s personality and style.
  2. Coordinate Outfits: While it’s not necessary for everyone to match exactly, coordinating outfits can make a big difference in the overall look of the photos. Choose a colour palette that complements each other and avoid overly busy patterns. The goal is to create a cohesive and harmonious look without being too matchy-matchy.
  3. Communicate with Your Photographer: Let your photographer know about any special requests or important family dynamics. This will help them plan the session and ensure that everyone feels comfortable and included. If there are any must-have shots, such as a specific group photo or a candid moment, make sure to communicate this beforehand.
  4. Be Flexible and Have Fun: Family sessions are meant to be fun and relaxed. Be prepared for some spontaneity and go with the flow. Sometimes the best photos come from unplanned moments of joy and laughter. Encourage family members to be themselves and enjoy the experience.


Capturing the Magic

During the session, my goal is to capture the genuine connections and emotions that make your family unique. I love to mix traditional posed shots with candid moments that showcase the true spirit of the family. Here are some of the types of photos you can expect:

  1. Group Photos: These are the classic family portraits that include everyone. They’re perfect for framing and displaying in your home. I like to take a few different variations to ensure we get the perfect shot.
  2. Generational Photos: These photos highlight the different generations within the family. It’s a beautiful way to show the continuity of family through the ages. Whether it’s a shot of the grandparents with their grandchildren or a four-generation photo, these images are truly special.
  3. Candid Moments: Some of the best photos are the ones that capture genuine moments of interaction. Whether it’s a shared laugh, a hug, or a playful moment, these candid shots tell the real story of your family.
  4. Individual and Small Group Photos: In addition to the large group photos, I like to take individual and smaller group shots. This could be just the siblings, the grandparents, or each family unit. It’s a great way to capture the unique relationships within the larger family.


The Joy of Looking Back

One of the greatest joys of photography is looking back at the photos and reliving the memories. Extended family sessions are especially meaningful because they capture moments that might not happen very often. As families grow and change, these photos become treasured keepsakes that remind us of the love and connection we share.

Imagine looking back at the photos years from now and seeing how much everyone has grown and changed. The kids will have grown up, new members may have joined the family, and some loved ones may no longer be with us. These photos become a way to honour their memory and keep their spirit alive.


Creating Timeless Keepsakes

After the session, you’ll have a beautiful collection of photos that capture the essence of your family. These photos are perfect for creating albums, prints, and other keepsakes that you can enjoy for years to come. Consider making a photo book that tells the story of your family or creating a gallery wall with your favourite images.

Whether you choose to display your photos in your home or share them with family members, they will be a lasting reminder of the love and connection that you share.


Final Thoughts

Extended family sessions are a wonderful way to celebrate the bonds that tie us together. They’re about capturing the love, laughter, and memories that make your family unique. With a bit of planning and a lot of heart, these sessions create timeless treasures that you’ll cherish forever.

So, gather your loved ones, choose a meaningful location, and let’s create some beautiful memories together. I can’t wait to capture the magic of your family and provide you with photos that you’ll treasure for a lifetime.