Tips for Including Extended Family
Including extended family members in your photo session is a wonderful way to capture the bonds and relationships that make your family unique. Whether it’s grandparents, aunts, uncles, or cousins, these moments become cherished memories. However, coordinating a large group can be a bit challenging. Here are some tips to help you plan and ensure everyone feels included and comfortable during the session.
1. Planning and Communication
Start by communicating with all family members about the session. Share the date, time, and location well in advance to ensure everyone can attend. It’s also helpful to discuss the importance of the session and what you hope to achieve, whether it’s capturing generational connections, celebrating a family reunion, or simply updating family portraits.
2. Coordinating Outfits
For a cohesive look, suggest a color palette or theme that everyone can follow. This doesn’t mean matching exactly but choosing complementary colors and styles. For example, you might suggest earth tones, pastels, or a specific seasonal color scheme. Encourage family members to avoid busy patterns or logos that can distract from the group’s unity.
3. Selecting a Suitable Location
Choose a location that can comfortably accommodate a large group and offers a variety of backgrounds. Parks, large gardens, or spacious home settings work well. Consider the mobility of all family members, including young children and elderly relatives, and ensure the location is accessible for everyone.
4. Organizing the Group
During the session, organize the group into smaller clusters for different combinations of photos. This could include:
Entire extended family group shot
Grandparents with grandchildren
Individual families
Siblings (adult siblings, cousin groups, etc.)
Special pairings (e.g., a grandparent with a grandchild, or all the cousins together)
Having a shot list can help the session run smoothly and ensure no important groupings are missed.
5. Making Everyone Comfortable
Large group sessions can be overwhelming, especially for young children and elderly relatives. Keep the atmosphere relaxed and enjoyable. Encourage breaks and provide seating if needed. For children, bring along some toys or snacks to keep them occupied and happy. It’s also a good idea to designate someone to help with coordinating and managing the group during the session.
6. Capturing Candid Moments
While posed group photos are important, candid shots often capture the true spirit of family gatherings. Encourage natural interactions, laughter, and conversations. These candid moments often result in some of the most cherished images.
7. Respecting Everyone’s Comfort Levels
Some family members may feel camera-shy or uncomfortable being photographed. Respect their feelings and avoid forcing anyone into photos. Instead, encourage participation by making the session as fun and relaxed as possible. Sometimes, simply engaging in casual conversation or shared activities can help everyone feel more at ease.
8. Timing is Key
Consider the best time of day for everyone, particularly for young children or elderly relatives. Sessions scheduled too late in the day can lead to tiredness, while midday sun can be harsh for outdoor photos. The "golden hour," shortly after sunrise or before sunset, often provides the best lighting and a more comfortable environment.
9. Post-Session Planning
After the session, share the photos with all family members, and consider creating prints or photo albums as gifts. This can be a wonderful way to commemorate the session and share the experience with those who may not have been able to attend.
10. Creating a Lasting Memory
Remember, the goal is to capture the love and connection within your family. Don’t stress too much about perfection. The most meaningful photos often come from the genuine interactions and emotions shared during the session.
By planning ahead and focusing on creating a relaxed and enjoyable atmosphere, your extended family photo session can be a memorable and rewarding experience for everyone involved. If you have any specific questions or need further advice, feel free to reach out. Let’s capture these beautiful moments together!