Finding a family photographer sucks. 100%. I’ve done it for both sides of my families three different times in 3 different states. Photographers all have different ways of handling inquiries and response times. I’d send off half a dozen emails in one evening, wait days to get responses from half of them and usually they were already booked. OR I couldn’t remember whose name went with what work I liked.
Add to that the stress of non committal family members – are they going to even BE there for the session?
Then what to wear for over 20 people?!
The hardest part is a single date where everyone will be there. My fam had organized 3 different beach houses on Fripp Island a year out. Date secured!
For what to wear, we went with pinks & blues for several reasons:
- Pink & blues are complimentary to the beach, which is a nice neutral location
- Pinks & blues are easy colors for most complexions
- Just about everyone has something in their closest already in any shade of pink or blue. Point proven: our giant group photo was a last minute add on and everyone already had with them clothes that just went together
- Adding in any neutral is easy – khaki, white, navy, denim, and gray
Tips for Extended Family Photos
Nothing is easy about extended family photos, but its always worth it and I’m here to support you every step! But the hardest part is done: Everyone will be in one place at the same time!
Date: I always start as early in your trip as possible – before anyone gets a sunburn, and several options for weather back ups in case it rains.
What to wear: I have a whole long write up on this one!
- When in doubt, pinks and blues are easy and look good on everyone at the beach
Photographer: There’s so many to choose from! Tick off these basic requirements:
- Has experience with families – a wedding photog will not work here bc bridal parties are not the same as a gaggle of kids.
- Is FAST This can make or break your experience! A slow photog will make for a painful session with kids begging to be done. I’ve experienced it myself!
- Is flexible in your travel dates. You have a short window and weather is real. Make sure there’s a back up plan if the first date doesn’t work.
- Will come to you. Make it easy on yourself and make sure you don’t have to transport your crowd further than absolutely necessary. Less stress!
These images were taken by Alexis Ralston Photography in South Carolina.
The big kahuna! My Granny, aunts, uncles, cousins, brother, SIL, nieces, nephews, first cousin once removed. ha! Sad part, this isn’t our whole crew! Missing about a third of the clan.
My family, my brother’s family, our Mama & our Granny.
My family
My boys
My brother’s family
Their two kids.
My brother’s fam plus our mom and grandmother (the kid’s grandmother and great grandmother!)
I always get mom & dad alone! This is important, y’all!
The candids. Always some of my favorite.
I'm a USMC spouse, South Carolina native, recovering homeschool mama of a 4 boy circus. They've taught me the most important facet of family photography: KEEP IT FUN!
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