Extended family photos typically include multiple generations of a family, including parents and their children, in-laws, grandparents, aunts, uncles, and cousins. It’s not uncommon for families to consist of more than ten individuals at one time, which can feel overwhelming if no structure is established beforehand. That’s why today, I’d like to share three simple steps to help you plan and prepare for extended family photos, so your photo experience can be as smooth as possible.

Create a List of Pairings You Want Photographed

To prepare for a session, it’s a good idea to make a list of the different pairings you want to capture a day or two before the session. You can use a notepad or your phone to jot down the list. To give you an idea of how to structure the list, here are a few examples:

• Grandma & Grandpa with all grandkids
• Each individual family
• Grandma & Grandpa with their kids
• Just the grandkids
• All the girls
• All the boys
• Grandma & Grandpa solo

To ensure a smooth family session, it is important to create a list in advance. This will provide clarity and help you think through which combinations are most important to have documented. It is also recommended to include individuals by name in the list. This way, the transitions between each pairing will be seamless.

• Grandma and Grandpa with Katie, Sarah, Luke, and Owen
• Johnson Family (Dave, Kathy, Katie, Sarah, Luke & Owen)
• Smith Family (John, Mary, & Isabelle)

Make Sure All Parties are Informed of What to Expect

To capture a large group’s focus and attention during a photo shoot in a picturesque location in northern Michigan can be quite challenging. Conducting a pre-shoot discussion to set expectations can be extremely beneficial.

During the discussion, it’s important to let everyone know that we are working off a list. It’s crucial to listen carefully as names are called out. Once your name is called, please remain at the location where the images are being taken until you are released. If anyone starts to wander, we may have to send someone to go get them, which could end up wasting session time.

Plan For Group Photos First, and Candids Last

When it comes to organizing extended family photos, I have found that the best approach is to start with the essential pairings first. This way, at the end of the session everyone can relax and enjoy themselves.

While photographing candid shots towards the end of the session, I can capture genuine emotions, memories, and activities. To be honest, this is my favorite part of the session because no one has to sit still and stay focused. I get to work on my creativity, and you get to spend quality time together.

Truthfully, I think many of my past clients would agree that the end-of-session candids are some of their favorite images in the entire gallery.

Extended family photos can be really fun with a plan in place!

My schedule during the summer is full of extended family portraits and I love it. Many of them take place on the beaches of Lake Michigan which is so special. If you have family photos coming up (extended or not), I hope you will take these suggestions in bite-sized pieces and see how much they can enhance your experience.

Did you enjoy this post “Expert Tips: How to Plan and Prepare for Extended Family Photos” and want to read more like it? 

Each week I share helpful content in this space for your reading pleasure. Be sure to sign up for my weekly newsletter to know when posts are shared so you don’t miss out.

If you want to follow along on social platforms:

Instagram: @alysonchristinephotography

Facebook: Alyson Christine Photography

Pinterest: Alyson Christine Photography

Contact: Fill out the form here!

The Newsletter: Sign up here!