Hi, it’s Enzo! My sister Daniella and I are family photographers on the beautiful island of Oahu, Hawaii. We’ve taken photos of over 300 families, and one of our favorite sessions to photograph is extended family gatherings. Let us tell you more about them!
What Is an Extended Family Photography Session?
When was the last time your entire family was together in one place? Life moves quickly, and family gatherings can be rare and fleeting. Extended family photography sessions are a wonderful way to bring generations together and capture those moments in a way that lasts forever.
But what exactly is an extended family photography session? Let us break it down for you.
What Is an Extended Family Session?
An extended family session is a professional photography session that includes not just your immediate family but also your extended relatives.
This could mean grandparents, aunts, uncles, cousins, or even family friends who feel like family. Essentially, it’s a celebration of your family tree in all its branches.
These sessions are perfect for:
- Family reunions
- Milestone celebrations (anniversaries, milestone birthdays, or retirement parties)
- Holiday gatherings
- Documenting generations (capturing grandparents with their grandchildren, for example)
The beauty of extended family sessions lies in the variety of moments we can capture. From the full group portrait to smaller family units and candid shots, these sessions ensure that every connection is celebrated. Because we are a 2 person team, we can take the same amount of photos in half the time. This means that an extended family session can happen in one hour instead of two.
Why Book an Extended Family Session?
1. Preserve Family Legacy
Generations come and go, but photos keep their legacy alive. Extended family photos become treasured heirlooms, telling the story of your family for years to come. Imagine your children and grandchildren looking back at these images to see the love that connects them.
2. Celebrate Togetherness
Extended family sessions are a celebration of unity. They capture the joy, laughter, and sometimes chaos that makes your family unique. They’re also a perfect excuse to get everyone together in one place!
3. Professional Quality You Can’t DIY
Let’s be honest—a quick snapshot on a smartphone can’t compare to the polished, well-lit, and thoughtfully composed photos from professional photographers like us. Plus, everyone gets to be in the photo without someone having to hold the camera.
What to Expect During the Session
Pre-Session Planning
We’ll start by discussing the details:
- Who will be in the photos
- What combinations of groupings you’d like (e.g., full group, siblings, grandparents with grandkids, etc.)
- Location: Whether it’s a beautiful Hawaiian beach, a lush garden, or your family’s backyard, the setting will reflect your family’s personality.
The Day of the Shoot
On the day of your session, we’ll guide you through every step. We’ll start with the larger group shots while everyone is fresh and energized, then move into smaller groups and candid moments. Our goal is to make everyone feel comfortable so we can capture natural smiles and genuine interactions.
Post-Session Magic
After the session, we’ll carefully edit the best images to ensure everyone looks their best. You’ll receive a gallery full of photos that celebrate your family’s story.
Tips for a Successful Extended Family Session
- Coordinate Outfits
Aim for a cohesive color palette without matching too much. Neutral tones or complementary colors work beautifully. - Be on Time
With so many people involved, staying on schedule ensures we have enough time to capture every moment. - Relax and Enjoy
Don’t stress about perfection. The best photos often come from natural, unposed moments.
Let’s Capture Your Family’s Story
Extended family sessions are more than just photos—they’re an opportunity to celebrate your family’s connections and legacy. Whether you’re planning a reunion, honoring a special milestone, or simply cherishing the time you have together, let us create memories you’ll treasure forever.
Ready to book your extended family session? Click here to get started!