Joy Across Generations: Photographing extended family sessions
There’s something so special about gathering everyone together
grandparents, siblings, cousins, maybe even a new baby or two and freezing this chapter of your family’s story.
Extended family sessions aren’t just about getting everyone in one frame, they’re about celebrating connection, legacy, and the joy (and yes, sometimes the chaos) of being part of a big family.
As a family photographer serving El Dorado Hills, Sacramento, Roseville, Folsom, and surrounding areas, I’ve had the honor of photographing families of all sizes. And let me tell you… extended family sessions are some of my absolute favorites.
One of the reasons I love photographing extended family sessions is that they give me the chance to tell the whole story of your family. Of course, we’ll capture the big group photo with everyone together, the one that gets framed for the grandparents’ living room, but what I treasure most are the smaller moments. Each individual family unit gets their own portraits, siblings get a chance to laugh together, and grandparents are celebrated with their grandchildren. It’s such a gift to be able to weave all of those little pieces into a collection that feels complete, because every relationship matters and deserves to be remembered.
From the littlest toddlers to the most patient grandparents, my goal is to make the session feel fun and relaxed. I’ll guide you through prompts and groupings so no one feels lost in the shuffle.
Coordinating Outfits Without Stress
When multiple households are involved, outfit planning can feel like a puzzle. When it comes to styling, my biggest advice is to think in terms of harmony, not matching. Extended families look beautiful when the outfits flow together without feeling overly “uniform.” Choose a color palette of 3–4 tones that work well together (soft neutrals, earthy shades, or muted pastels are always timeless) and then let each family add their own personality within that palette. Layers, textures, and subtle patterns add depth without being distracting. Most importantly, choose outfits that feel comfortable and authentic, because when you feel at ease, it shines through in the photos.
Capturing Connection Across Generations
These sessions aren’t just about filling a frame, they’re about celebrating the threads that tie your family together. A grandparent’s hand on a grandchild’s shoulder. Siblings laughing as they pose with their growing families. The joy of having everyone in one place. These are images that become part of your family’s legacy, treasured not just today but for generations to come.
Extended family sessions also give you something truly priceless: a chance to slow down and celebrate the connections that often get lost in the busyness of everyday life. When was the last time everyone in your family was in the same place at the same time, with nothing else pulling you away? These sessions create a space where laughter, hugs, and even the silly in-between moments can unfold naturally. The photos become more than just images, they become a reminder of how lucky you are to have these people, all together, at this stage in your lives.
If you’ve been thinking about scheduling extended family photos in El Dorado Hills, Sacramento, Roseville, or Folsom, now is a beautiful time to gather your people together. I would love to help you create images that feel both timeless and true to your family’s story.
Tsaiti
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Hi, I'm Tsaiti,
Your dedicated family, newborn, and motherhood photographer in Northern California. From the bustling city of Sacramento to the charming towns of Roseville and El Dorado Hills, I specialize in creating timeless and heartfelt photography experiences.
My passion lies in capturing the precious moments that define your family's journey—whether it's the tender anticipation of maternity sessions, the pure innocence of newborn sessions, or the joyful connections of family sessions. Every photo I take is a piece of art, crafted to evoke the deep emotions and connections that make your family unique.
I pride myself on offering an elite client experience, complete with an exclusive client closet filled with gorgeous flowy dresses, stunning locations, and a beautiful studio designed for your comfort. My goal is to provide you with more than just photos; I aim to create enduring memories that you will cherish forever.
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