When was the last time you looked at an old family photo and thought, `I wish fewer people were in this`?

Probably never.

That is exactly why I always say yes when families ask whether they should include the grandparents, the cousins, the aunt and uncle who are only in town for a few days.

When you are not sure, say yes anyway. We will find a way to make it work.

A few things I want every family to know before a multigenerational session.

Start with the group shot - always. I photograph the full group first, before anything else, so every person in attendance (including the ones who drove the farthest) knows the most important image is already done. From there, we move through smaller groupings with a lighter energy.

Tell me about mobility before we choose a location. If a grandparent or family member has any physical considerations, I need to know before we land on a spot. There is always a way to create beautiful images that honor everyone present - I just need to know what we are working with so I can plan for it.

Mornings are almost always better for the little ones. Babies and toddlers are near-universally happier before the afternoon hits. When multiple generations are present, timing the session well makes a real difference in the energy of the whole group.

And if there are any family dynamics I should be aware of - specific pairings that need extra care, or groupings you would prefer I not suggest - please tell me. It keeps everything moving warmly, and it protects everyone from an awkward moment in front of the camera.

Planning is how multigenerational sessions go well. I am always happy to talk it through before your session date. Contact me through my website, link in bio.

I photographed the same extended family twice.

The first time, it rained. They were troopers about it. We had already scoped out a covered porch at the location just in case the weather had other ideas, and that porch became our backdrop. We made something beautiful out of what could have been a wash.

The second time, they came back with new additions. Beach house on Alligator Point. Grandparents out on the water with the grandchildren. Big group moments and smaller family units. Easy, relaxed, and real.

What I remember most about both sessions is the feeling at the end. A kind of collective exhale. Like everyone knew they had just done something that mattered and would keep mattering long after that day.

That is the thing about showing up even when the conditions are not perfect. The photos do not know it rained.

Read more about Extended family/Multigenerational family photos in this month`s blog post. Link in bio.