The Joy (and Chaos!) of an Extended Family Session!
Why gathering the whole crew for an extended family session is totally worth it
As a San Luis Obispo family photographer, I love all kinds of sessions—but extended family sessions have a special place in my heart. There’s just something so sweet (and yes, a little chaotic!) about bringing multiple generations together in one frame. Cousins giggling, grandparents beaming, siblings goofing off—it’s a beautiful blend of love, legacy, and laughter.
And let’s be honest—getting everyone in one place is a big deal. Life gets busy, families live far apart, and these moments don’t happen nearly enough. That’s exactly why I believe extended family photos are so important. They’re a way to freeze time and celebrate the people who shaped you—and the tiny humans who will carry the family story forward.
Why Extended Family Photos Matter
Think of it like this: family photos are heirlooms in the making. And when you include grandparents, aunts, uncles, cousins, and everyone in between… You’re capturing an entire legacy in one beautiful collection of images.
Here’s what makes extended family sessions extra meaningful:
- They capture generations – It’s not every day you get three (or even four!) generations in the same photo.
- They celebrate togetherness – Whether it’s a special reunion, vacation, or just a rare weekend when everyone’s in town, it’s worth documenting.
- They’re for everyone – Sure, Grandma may be the one who initiates the idea, but trust me—these photos become favorites for the whole family.
Curious about the value of multigenerational portraits? This article beautifully highlights their lasting impact.
What to Expect at Your Extended Family Session
I get it. The idea of organizing a big group can feel a little… overwhelming. But that’s where I come in! My job is to make your session as easy and stress-free as possible.
Here’s what you can expect:
- A relaxed and playful vibe (no stiff posing here!)
- Guidance every step of the way—so no one’s left wondering what to do with their hands
- A mix of combinations: full group, individual families, grandparents with grandkids, siblings, cousins, etc.
- Candid moments in between the “posed” ones—because those are often the magic shots
Whether we’re meeting at a beach or gathering amidst the beautiful Oak trees of Paso Robles, we’ll find a beautiful backdrop. Need ideas? Check out my favorite San Luis Obispo photo locations to get inspired!
Tips to Keep Things Simple and Fun
Want to make your session a breeze? Here are a few quick tips:
- Designate a lead communicator – Having one point person to coordinate details with me helps keep things streamlined.
- Plan outfits in advance – I’ll send over a style guide to help everyone coordinate (without matching too much!).
- Embrace the chaos – With big families, there are bound to be silly moments—and that’s part of the fun!
- Trust the process – I’ve done this a lot, and I promise to make it feel more like a gathering than a photoshoot.
Still wondering what to wear? My go-to guide on spring photo family outfits has tips that apply to any season.
What You’ll Walk Away With
The final gallery from an extended family session is always one of my favorites. You’ll get:
- Classic portraits and heartfelt candids
- Images of all the important pairings and groupings
- A joyful reminder of what it feels like to be surrounded by your people
And maybe—just maybe—you’ll get a new favorite photo of Grandpa belly-laughing at a toddler’s joke or a tender hug between generations that brings tears to your eyes. Those are the moments you’ll never regret capturing.
Let’s Make Some Memories Together
If you’ve been thinking about scheduling an extended family session, this is your sign: don’t wait for the next holiday or perfect moment. Let’s gather your people, make some memories, and create a gallery full of love, laughter, and legacy.
I’m here to help with every step—location ideas, outfit guidance, and making sure everyone (yes, even the grumpy uncle!) has a good time.
📸 Ready to Book? Let’s make it happen!
