How to Prepare for a Large Family Photo Shoot

Plan Ahead for a Stress-Free Photo Session 

The warm weather season is officially here, meaning families all over the U.S. will gather for events like Mother's Day, Father's Day, graduations, and weddings. 

Many families use these reunions to update their family photos, but preparing for a large, extended family photography session requires some planning to ensure everything goes smoothly, especially when kids are involved.

Here are some tips to help you prepare and get the best possible results:

Communicate with your photographer: Make sure to communicate your expectations and any specific requests or requirements you have for the session. Discuss the style of photography you prefer. For example, are you looking for a candid moment or something with a pre-planned pose for a large family portrait? There are no wrong answers, but most photographers specialize in a particular style. Just make sure the professional photographer you select can achieve the look you want. If you want to ensure the photographer captures specific poses or groupings, discuss that with them. 

If family dynamics could impact the photo session, mention it to your photographer. No, we don't need to know all the tea, as the ins and outs are none of our business, but if Aunt Emily hates Uncle Roy, we need to know so we can separate them within the frame. 

Do you have a family member with a differing ability level? It's helpful to a photographer to know when we'll photograph clients with differing abilities like autism and physical limitations. It gives us time to plan, ensure safe locations, and work for our clients' needs. As an example, my sister was in a horrible motorcycle accident and is now wheelchair-bound. If I neglected to tell my photographer this information, they might choose an inaccessible location.

Choose the right location: Work with your photographer to select a spacious area to accommodate your large family comfortably. Consider outdoor locations like parks, gardens, or beaches for natural light and beautiful backdrops. Also, if you have a specific area that means something to your family, by all means, mention it. Most photographers love to shoot in places with sentimental value to our clients. 

Coordinate outfits: Unless you are a stylist or have experience in the fashion industry, take your photographer's styling advice and work together to decide on a color palette to ensure a cohesive look for the family photos. Professional photographers have reasons why we recommend the colors that we do. Certain tones match the season; sometimes, photographers know a color won't work with their editing style. 

Also, it's best to avoid an outfit with busy patterns or overly bright colors that may distract from the main subjects. Everyone should dress comfortably and in clothing that reflects their personalities.

Schedule your session wisely: Plan the photo session when everyone is well-rested and cooperative, especially if young kids are involved. Avoid scheduling the family photo session during meals or when family members might be tired or irritable. Scheduling for kids in mind can get tricky because most natural light photographers choose to shoot at golden hour, which, in some seasons, can interfere with bedtime. 

The way you parent is up to you. But if you want a specific date, consider pushing scheduled naps a bit later than usual on the session day, as it might give your kids some extra time before they hit the wall. If the little kids happen to fall asleep in the car, I've found it's best to allow them to wake naturally rather than force them awake. It might take a few more minutes, but (depending on your kid) might also save 30 minutes of rage-filled tears. And bring some age-appropriate snacks. You'd be surprised how a small nibble can extend a session. 

The temperature is also a big issue when you have small children in your extended family. My rule is that if it's under 40 degrees and small children are involved, we must reschedule. Understandably, they can get super cranky and whiney. To avoid the issue, schedule your session in the months when temperatures are a bit warmer. 

Please arrive early: With an extended family, you'll need to arrive at the location early to give yourself time to settle in and make sure all family members are present and ready for the session to start on schedule. The extra time also allows for last-minute makeup and hair touch-ups or outfit adjustments.

Bring personal items or pets: Consider bringing personal items that reflect your family's interests, hobbies, or even a family pet. If you choose to bring a pet, please ensure you have a space to kennel it during a portion of the photo shoot so that your furry friend remains safe. 

Be flexible and patient: With a large family, being patient and flexible during the session is essential. Organizing everyone for a family picture and individual portraits will take some time, so try to remain calm and go with the flow. 

If kids need a break, give them a moment. The photo shoot is likely to be very overwhelming for them. Just take your time and trust your photographer to guide the process and capture candid moments along the way.

Have fun: Most importantly, relax and enjoy the experience! Family photo sessions are a fantastic opportunity to capture special memories and celebrate the bonds between you and your loved ones. Encourage the entire family to enjoy the moment and let their personalities shine in the photos.

Following these tips and coming well-prepared and well-rested can ensure a successful and enjoyable photography session for your large, extended family.