Your Guide to a Fun & Easy Extended Family Photo Session
You know that moment where everyone’s finally in the same place at the same time - the grandparents, siblings, spouses, and a bunch of loud, giggling cousins racing through the yard? That’s magic. And if you’ve ever tried to snap a quick photo during the chaos of a family get-together, you’ve probably thought: “We need a real photo session for this.”
Extended family photo sessions - also known as multigenerational sessions - are some of my very favorite. At one session, I laughed so hard I ended up in a bush, still grinning from ear to ear. There’s something special about seeing three generations together, and I always leave these sessions feeling like my own bucket's been filled up.
If you’re planning this type of session (or thinking about it), I created this guide to walk you through what to expect, how to prep multiple families, and how to make the experience relaxed and, yes, even fun.
Let’s Be Honest: Organizing Multiple Families Can Feel Like Herding Cats
I get it. Coordinating calendars, outfits, and energy levels for a large group sounds like a production. But it doesn’t have to be stressful.
I approach extended family sessions with calm, warmth, and a clear flow so everyone involved feels relaxed and included. The key is good communication, a little outfit planning, and realistic expectations (spoiler alert: perfection isn't the goal).
And the payoff? Grandparents holding grandbabies, cousins piled into one frame cracking up, parents hugging their grown kids. These are the portraits you hang on the wall and keep for decades.
Below are the most helpful tips and insights I’ve gathered from my years photographing extended families, guiding each generation through the process with ease and humor.
How to Prepare for an Extended Family Photo Session
1. Choose One Main Point of Contact
For a smooth experience, designate one person (usually Grandma, but not always!) to communicate directly with me. This person helps coordinate logistics, outfit planning, and passes along info to the group. Having a “session leader” allows everything to stay organized without overwhelming anyone.
2. Fill Out a Pre-Session Questionnaire
To make sure your session runs smoothly and feels customized to your unique family, I request you complete a pre-session questionnaire (or planning call if that’s easier!). It helps me understand important details like family groupings, mobility needs, any must-have shots, and anything special to be aware of. It’s a great way to make sure everyone feels seen and that no one is left guessing what to expect.
3. Select Your Location Thoughtfully
Some things to consider when selecting your location in conjunction with your photographer:
Can everyone in the group comfortably access the location? Make sure the terrain suits both toddlers and grandparents.
If you’re bringing family together from out of town with limited ability to reschedule, it might make sense to book a studio or a location that works rain or shine.
I’m always happy to offer suggestions for local parks, forested trails, your home or backyard... depending on the time of year and feel you’re going for.
Have a backup plan in mind just in case of less-than-ideal weather.
4. Next, Discuss Wardrobe Coordination
Planning outfits for multiple families can seem tricky, but here’s how to make it simple and cohesive without being too matchy-matchy:
Pick a shared color palette (like soft blues, earthy neutrals, or jewel tones)
Each nuclear family should coordinate with each other first
Limit to one patterned piece per small family to avoid visual clutter
Mix in textures like knits, linen, or denim for dimension
Avoid logos, neon colors, lots of black and white, and overly matching outfits
Consider the location, what colors will pop at the coast, or stand out in a wooded area? These are important when selecting a color palette for everyone to work within.
When in doubt, send me your ideas! I’m happy to help you fine-tune the colors you are working with, and clothing items you are considering. I love when individual personalities shine through while still looking cohesive in a group photo. Think intentional, not identical.
5. Set Expectations With Your Family
It helps to let your family know what the session will feel like. Send a group message or email summarizing the plan (and don't forget reminders as we're all busy and no one can receive too many reminders):
The session is relaxed and includes both big family groupings and smaller combinations of family members
No one has to “perform” - I’ll guide everyone gently and provide plenty of direction
We’ll include a mix of posed portraits and candid moments
Please arrive on time, well-fed (kids and grownups!), and dressed and ready to go
I usually take a child-led approach, adjusting the flow of the session based on the kids' moods and needs — from the timing to who gets photographed when
Share the timeline for the photo delivery with everyone, as well as how you will share the gallery of images with them. All family members will be able to download images and order print products after the primary point of contact has purchased a photo collection. Let all adults know they are welcome to contact me with any specific questions or items they would like to share with me.
Prep the group ahead of time and set expectations for a joyful, flexible experience. And gently remind everyone: it’s not about perfection, it’s about connection.
6. Embrace the In-Between Moments
Some of the most treasured images come from in-between moments. The grandparents whispering to each other. Cousins making silly faces. The way your sibling’s laugh makes everyone else laugh too.
Don’t worry if the kids aren’t standing perfectly straight or someone’s hair blows out of place. I’ll be sure to guide everyone and catch the real magic in between...and a fair share of lighthearted teasing and inside jokes.
Frequently Asked Questions
What if someone is running late?
I always build in a little buffer time, but please do your best to arrive on time. Late arrivals can cut into the session and limit the number of groupings we can fit in. I prefer to start with the kids portraits, and the large group photos as these are typically the priority...if someone arrives late I will start with who is present, but it can impact the flow and fun of the session. If something comes up, just text or call me — we’ll adapt as best we can!
Can we include pets?
Yes, absolutely! If your furry family members are part of the crew, I’d love to include them. Just let me know in advance so we can plan a pet-friendly location. Based on the temperament of your pets, a helper may be needed which we can discuss prior to the session. Here’s some tips on preparing your dog for your family photo session.
What if the weather doesn’t cooperate?
I keep a close eye on the forecast and we'll always be in touch if it looks iffy. We’ll have a backup plan in place — whether that’s a reschedule or an indoor location.
Do we all have to match?
Not at all! In fact, I encourage coordinating without matching. Think of it like creating a cohesive look where each family member’s personality still shines through. I’m happy to review outfit ideas if you’re unsure.
What should we bring to the session?
Great question! I recommend bringing a few “just in case” items, especially when kids are involved. Pack snacks (clean snacks) and water, a small blanket or towel for sitting if we're outdoors, backup shoes if we’re walking through wet ground, some wipes, and a hairbrush or comb for quick touch-ups. For little ones, comfort items like a favorite toy or lovey can help ease nerves particularly with a large extended family which can feel overwhelming. And if it’s a hot or chilly day, consider layers to stay comfortable throughout the session. You can also consider an activity everyone would like, such as blowing bubbles, jumping rope, or a large game.
How do we access and share the photos afterward?
Once the session is complete and the main point of contact selects a collection, I’ll deliver a gallery that everyone can access to download photos and order prints. You can also share the gallery link with your family — everything is online so it's super easy!
Is Extended Family Photo Session Worth It?
Yes!! An extended family session is more than a checklist photo. It’s a way to document your family’s story - who you are now, where you’ve come from, and how love has grown over time.
These portraits become albums on coffee tables, cherished gifts for grandparents, and meaningful wall art that tells your story for generations. I truly believe these are “do not miss” sessions worth repeating every few years.
Families often tell me after the session that they expected stress, but left saying, “We should do that again next year.”
Don't Just Take My Word For It
A repeat client, Nancy shared her thoughts and experience from a multigenerational family photo session in Portland that I wanted to share with you.
"Rebecca made our first formal family photos in decades incredibly successful and a lot of fun. With grandparents, five siblings, and all the grandchildren gathered together, she transformed our backyard into the ideal setting, finding the best angles and backgrounds for every shot.
What impressed us most was how effortlessly she managed our large group, keeping everyone engaged and moving smoothly through all the different combinations we wanted captured. Even our most camera-shy grandchildren ended up with natural, genuine expressions – Rebecca has a special gift for putting people at ease.
The results speak for themselves: our treasured family portrait now hangs in the place of honor at the grandparents' home, and even our youngest family member has a framed photo of all the cousins actually falling all over themselves laughing. A moment she captured while they were clowning around waiting for their turn.
Rebecca will absolutely be our first call the next time we manage to wrangle all this chaos together again. I am currently campaigning to get everyone to one of her beach sessions."
Ready to Plan Your Extended Family Photo Session In Portland?
If your people are gathering soon, or if you’re overdue for portraits that feature everyone from Grandma down to the littlest grandbaby, now is a perfect time to plan.
I’d love to help you coordinate a beautiful, fun, and meaningful extended family session. Reach out via my contact page, and let’s start planning something your whole family will treasure.
These sessions fill my heart - and I know they’ll do the same for yours.
