The Ultimate Guide to Extended Family Photo Sessions
Capturing Grandparents, Cousins, and Generations of Love
You know that one photo of your grandparents on their wedding day? The one tucked in a vintage frame, full of promise and hairspray? It might just be the last professional photo they ever took.
And while your phone is probably bursting with candids from holidays and birthday parties, when was the last time your entire family was photographed together? Not just your household. Not just the kids. We’re talking grandparents, cousins, aunts, uncles—the whole family tree in one beautiful frame.
Extended family sessions are growing in popularity, and they’ve become one of my favorite things to photograph, probably because I come from a big, love-filled family myself. When I was growing up, my family held WEEK LONG family reunions once every four years in the mountains of Colorado. My dad’s side of the family, around 60+ people, all gathered in one large cabin near Durango to hike, play games, have a bonfire, etc. And sometime during the week, we always had “picture day”. Think 8-10 adults with film cameras all standing around saying “Say cheese!”, “Look over here!”, “Just one more!”. Now with my experience as a photographer, I have become the designated picture taker in charge of the large group photo (yes I did say 60+ people) and pictures of each individual family. It’s an undertaking, but one I would never pass up! I know firsthand just how meaningful it is to see everyone gathered in one place. These sessions are not just portraits; they’re time capsules.
What’s Included in an Extended Family Photo Session?
All the Cousins
Grandparents with Grandchildren
Original Core Family
Candids
Every extended family session is unique, but here’s what you can count on:
A mix of groupings: We’ll start with the full extended family and then break it down (grandparents with grandkids, the original core family, cousin groups, and smaller nuclear families).
Both candid and posed images: We’ll get those classic “everyone looking” shots, but the real magic comes from natural moments laughing, snuggling, and walking hand-in-hand.
Guided structure: I’ll lead the session with enough direction to keep things flowing, especially for larger families. Learn more about my Lifestyle Family Photography Approach.
Extra time: These sessions typically run about 60-90 minutes, giving us enough time to move through groupings without rushing.
Where Should You Take Extended Family Photos?
Choosing the right setting is key, especially when you’re working with a crowd. I recommend two favorite locations that work beautifully for larger families:
Juanita Bay Park – Kirkland, WA
This location (see more) has wide open grassy spaces, big trees, and playful logs for kids to climb. If time permits, we can head down to the boardwalk for views of Lake Washington. It offers variety, movement, and space for little ones to explore while keeping the session flowing.
Added bonus: the park is enclosed, so kids can run around a bit without parents having to keep an extra-close eye while different groupings of family members are being photographed.
2. Luther Burbank Park – Mercer Island, WA
With a large field perfect for group photos (see more) and bonus backdrops like docks, a narrow beach, and water views, this park gives us a beautiful range of options without needing to walk too far. It’s great for families coming from different parts of the Eastside and Seattle because of its central location.
Pro Tip: Choose the park closest to where the majority of family members are staying; easy access means less stress for everyone.
When Is the Best Time to Schedule a Multi-Generation Family Session?
Let’s be honest, scheduling is the hardest part. Coordinating calendars across multiple households (and maybe even states) takes effort. That’s why summer is hands-down the best season for extended family photo sessions in the Pacific Northwest.
More daylight: Sunset isn’t until after 8pm, giving us lots of flexibility.
Warmer temps = relaxed people: Sunshine puts everyone in a better mood.
Less rain risk: Summer weather here is usually dry and reliable.
Vacation time: Families are already together or traveling, which makes organizing easier.
Start Time
In summer, we’ll begin around 7:00–7:30pm, with the golden hour lighting everyone loves. I know that may feel late for little ones, but when cousins are involved, kids tend to rally! Bring a (clean) snack, keep the day low-key, and trust me, it’ll work out better than you expect.
How to Coordinate Outfits for Extended Family Photos
The #1 question I get for extended family sessions? “What do we wear?!”
You’ve probably heard it before: “Coordinate, don’t match.” But let’s break that down so your family looks cohesive and polished without turning into a denim-clad blob.
My Go-To Outfit Strategies:
Stick to a palette of 2–3 colors + neutrals. Think navy, rust, and cream, or soft blues, sage green, and khaki.
Vary the textures and fabrics. Linen, denim, cotton knits, flowy dresses all add movement and interest.
Choose 1–2 patterns max. A floral dress on Grandma or a checked shirt on Grandpa can be your inspiration piece, with other family members pulling solid colors from that.
Need more help? I’ve created a What to Wear Guide for Extended Family Photos with visuals and tips to take the guesswork out of planning your crew’s wardrobe.
Keeping Everyone Happy (and Actually Having Fun!)
From toddlers to teenagers to your uncle who’d rather be golfing, not everyone shows up thrilled for photos, and that’s okay! Part of my job is helping everyone feel comfortable, natural, and even… dare I say it… enjoy the session.
Here’s How We Do That:
Start with the big group photo while everyone’s fresh and smiling.
Break into smaller groupings to give kids breaks and keep the pace moving.
Focus on connection, not perfection. I’m not looking for stiff smiles; I’m capturing the way your dad looks at your daughter or the cousins’ inside jokes.
Don’t over-schedule the day. Especially if you’re visiting, skip the packed itinerary before the shoot. Arriving well-rested and not hungry goes a long way.
Bring simple snacks and water for the kids: think non-messy, easy-to-eat treats (small pack of fruit chews for the win).
Dress comfortably. Kids who feel good in their clothes (and aren’t itchy or cold) are more likely to participate happily.
By the end, I often hear: “That was actually fun!” And that’s my favorite kind of review.
Let’s Capture Your Family Legacy—Together
There’s never a perfect time. But there is a right time, and it’s when your family is here, together, and healthy.
Extended family photo sessions are an investment in memory. They’re keepsakes for your kids, your grandkids, and future generations. Let’s create something meaningful while everyone is still able to be in the frame.
📸 Ready to plan your session? Reach out to reserve your extended family session in Kirkland or the greater Seattle Eastside. I’ll help guide every step, from finding the right date to coordinating outfits to making sure even the most photo-resistant family members leave with a smile.
More links to check out:
• Tips For Making The Most Of Your Extended Family Photo Session
