Reliving the Magic of a Large Family Session Without Saying a Word
I’ll never forget the time I showed up to a multigenerational beach session and realized…I couldn’t speak. No illness, no fever, just a sudden case of seasonal allergies that stole my voice hours before I was supposed to photograph a big extended family on Treasure Island Beach. There were no teas or lozenges strong enough to save the whisper of a voice that was remaining in time.
Instead of panicking, I recruited the loudest family member to be my voice, mimed my way through most of the session, and we laughed the entire time. The photos turned out brilliantly (thanks in no small part to their good humor and obvious joy that they were getting to spend time together). They’ve since gone on to book me for future family get-togethers – voice included!
That session stands out not because everything went perfectly, but because it was so full of connection, chaos, and a whole lot of love. That’s exactly what makes extended family photography during the holidays so special.
If you’re thinking about including extended family in your next photo session while everyone’s in town, whether for Thanksgiving, Christmas, or a much-needed winter reunion, I want you to know: It doesn’t have to be overwhelming. In fact, it can be one of the most beautiful ways to honor your story – together.
Why Extended Family Sessions Matter More Than Ever
In today’s world, so many families are spread across states (or continents). We rarely get to be in the same place at the same time. When those rare visits roll around – the ones where cousins get to play together, grandma gets to hear little giggles echo down the hallway, and everyone crams onto the same couch – that’s worth documenting.
And here’s the thing: multigenerational portraits aren’t about perfection. They’re about presence.
I’ve photographed extended families with toddlers who wouldn’t sit still, college kids who joked like it was a comedy show, and grandparents who hadn’t had a formal photo in years. And every time, what shines through isn’t forced smiles. It’s the real stuff. The connections that make your family beautifully yours.
Tips for a Successful (and Actually Fun) Extended Family Photo Session
You don’t need to micromanage smiles or force everyone into identical shirts to make it work. Here’s how I help families keep it simple, meaningful, and surprisingly easy.
1. Don’t Overthink the Outfits
Coordinating a big group starts with simplicity. My go-to rule?
- Pick one light base (like white or beige)
- Add one color (like sage, navy, or rust)
- If desired, weave in one accent color
- Share the color palette, not a dress code
This way, everyone feels comfortable in what they’re wearing, and the photos still feel beautifully cohesive without looking like a 1990s catalog shot. I know how sensory preferences, body types, or generational styles vary – this formula gives space for individuality while celebrating belonging.
If you’re booking with me, I’ve got full guides to help you out with this part. It’s not just doable, it’s one of the easiest pieces once we set the framework.
2. Embrace the Chaos (Seriously)
Extended family sessions always come with a little extra energy – and that’s part of the charm. Whether it’s:
- A toddler who keeps running toward the ocean
- Siblings roasting each other behind my camera
- Grandparents beaming as grandkids crawl into their lap
Let it happen. My job is to guide joyfully and adjust as we go. I often work around the littlest kids or anyone who needs more time getting settled (mobility-wise or emotionally). We rotate through mini-groups, give back pockets of downtime, and keep things lighthearted.
The magic is often in the candid moments, not just the formal poses.
3. Plan Early in Your Trip
If your family is vacationing or visiting around the holidays, try to plan your session at the beginning of your stay. That way:
- Everyone’s fresh, less likely to be sunburned, and ready to enter vacation mode
- We can pivot if someone’s flight is delayed or if a stomach bug hits
- You’ll have time to relax and enjoy the rest of your trip knowing that the family photos that means so much are already done
I’ll work closely with you on this – just let me know when everyone arrives and who’s involved so we can plan it in a way that flows naturally.
4. Go Where Your Family Feels Like Themselves
While the beach is a favorite for many of my Saint Pete extended family sessions, it’s not the only option.
You can choose:
- Your family’s favorite park or vacation condo
- Your own home, where your kids can show off their rooms or backyard
- Any location that feels like “us” to your crew
The goal is to choose a spot that makes it easy to focus on being together, without having to stress about logistics. I’ll bring the same relaxed, story-driven energy to any setting as long as it speaks to who you are.
5. Let It Be Part of the Celebration
Don’t treat photo day like homework. Treat it like another part of your family traditions. You’re already dressed up. Why not follow it with dinner out? Let the kids toss seashells or play tag afterward. Choose to be yourselves.
When you lean into the joy of the moment, the photos show it.
These Moments are the Gift
The true value of a photo session with extended family isn’t how styled everyone looks. It’s that one day, not too far from now, your kids will have a picture of themselves in grandma’s arms. Your parents will see themselves surrounded by their grown children and grandchildren. Cousins will look back and remember their silly beach games and shared jokes.
That’s not just a photo session. That’s legacy.
If you’re already gathering, already loving, already laughing during this holiday season – let’s make it last a little longer.
