Joyful Extended Family Session in Bethesda, Maryland
I’ve now had the honor of photographing this family three times this year! Everytime I get to see them is always a wonderful time. You might recognize them from their snowy maternity session! This time, we got together for an extended family session as a gift for Abuela. She has four grandbabies ranging from under a year to 24 years old. This sweet extended family session was a chance for them to get together and capture new photos with her. Extended family sessions like this are always a true honor for me.
Joyful Extended Family Session
To start the session, we started with more traditional portraits of Abuela and her grandbabies. I loved watching her light up as they sat with her, on her lap, and hugged her. It was SO sweet to watch their interactions. After those were done, we did more lifestyle photos. My favorite was definitely of their little toes in her lap as she read them a book. It means so much to see a family together like this to me. Those little moments can be treasured for ever now!
If you’re thinking about booking an extended family session, I’m all for it! I’ve got a few quick tips to help make it all run smoothly for your family…
#1: Make sure everyone is aware of the photographer’s style.
When all is said and done, I want everyone to enjoy the gallery. I do recommend booking with a photographer that you have worked with before. That way, we know some of the family dynamic and names.
#2: Consider a location that gives you opportunities for privacy and space.
Honestly, I enjoy being in-homes because it is more laid back and authentic. It is also important for the space to be accessible if someone in the family has limitations in movement.
#3: For styling, keep it simple.
Choose 4-5 colors to be tied in. Make sure not everyone is wearing the same type of color on top and bottom. Be sure that the colors are in the same tone, too. This helps your family’s images feel more consistent and cohesive. Sticking with mostly neutrals and a few colors go a long way.
#4: Remind everyone that the photographer is in charge.
Otherwise it becomes “too many cooks in the kitchen.” Kids feed off that energy in a negative way and we want to play it cool and show that the photographer is in charge. It will help keep everything running smoothly, I promise!
Extended family portraits are always a lot of fun, and the final images mean so much. They will be treasured and considered family heirlooms for many years to come. I can’t ask for anything more meaningful as a family photographer!
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Christina did an amazing job with our family photos. From the first time we spoke--she was incredibly thoughtful, organized and detail oriented to ensure the session would be a success.. – Katie A.
