Extended family sessions are a beautiful way to celebrate generations, capture meaningful connections, and create lasting memories. Whether it’s grandparents with grandkids, siblings reuniting, or a full multi-generational portrait, these sessions are so worth it—but they do take a little extra planning!

To make your session smooth, stress-free, and full of genuine smiles, here are my top tips for coordinating your whole crew.

1. Choose a Color Palette That Works for Everyone

Coordinating outfits for a large group doesn’t have to be complicated! Instead of matching perfectly, pick a color palette of 3-4 complementary colors and let each family choose outfits within that range. Download my free style guide with sample color palettes, what NOT to wear, and more tips here!

Easy Family Color Combinations:

🎨 Neutrals + Soft Blues + Sage Green – Classic and timeless
🎨 Earth Tones (Beige, Rust, Olive, Cream) – Warm and natural
🎨 Soft Pastels (Blush, Light Gray, light purple, cream) – Light and airy

Avoid busy patterns, large logos, or clashing colors. This way, everyone looks cohesive while still showing off their personality!

2. Communicate Details Clearly (and Early!)

With multiple families involved, clear communication is key! Send out an email or group text with the session date, location, my print/product pricing you received when you inquired with me (if you don’t have this please reach out!), and my style guide, at least a few weeks in advance so everyone has time to prepare.

If certain family members tend to run late (we all have one!), consider telling them the session starts 15 minutes earlier than scheduled to keep things running smoothly.

3. Plan for Different Groupings

Extended family sessions offer the chance to capture a variety of combinations, so think about the shots you’d love to have! Here are some popular groupings:

📸 Full family shot – Everyone together!
📸 Grandparents + grandkids – A must-have moment!
📸 Siblings together – Whether it’s grown siblings or little ones.
📸 Individual family units – Each family gets their own mini-session.
📸 Individuals of kids- Each child can get an individual portrait
📸 Couples- any couples wanting a sweet portrait together
📸 Candid interactions – Walking, laughing, and playing together.

I’ll guide you through these poses, but having a plan helps us move efficiently and keeps everyone engaged!

4. Keep Kids Happy and Engaged

Young kids (and let’s be honest, some adults) can get restless during a longer session, so here’s how to keep things fun:

✔ Bring snacks and water – Quick, mess-free options like crackers or fruit work great.
✔ Pack a favorite toy or comfort item – Just in case they need a little extra reassurance.
✔ Embrace movement – Some of the best photos come from playful, natural interactions!

4. Keep Kids Happy and Engaged

Young kids (and let’s be honest, some adults) can get restless during a longer session, so here’s how to keep things fun:

✔ Bring snacks and water – Quick, mess-free options like crackers or fruit work great.
✔ Pack a favorite toy or comfort item – Just in case they need a little extra reassurance.
✔ Embrace movement – Some of the best photos come from playful, natural interactions!

5. Relax and Have Fun!

The best family photos come from genuine moments, not forced poses. Don’t stress if the kids get wiggly or someone isn’t looking at the camera—those in-between moments often turn into the most cherished images.

Just enjoy the time together, laugh, and let me handle the rest! If you are able to bring someone to help facilitate with little ones, that is always a huge help! It should be someone who is not planning on being in the big group photo, and someone the kids are familiar with. I used to bring an assistant to large family sessions but it just ends up being one more stranger to freak the babies out! Hah hah!