If you’ve ever wondered what happens from booking to file delivery with an extended family photo session, I’m excited so share some recent photos of a sweet family and list how my timeline works:
Pre-Session
One family member will reach out to me to coordinate their session. I’ll ask questions about their needs and preferences, and we’ll settle on a date and time.
If we don’t already have a spot in mind, I’ll go out location scouting. For this 14-person family, we needed a spot that was wheelchair accessible and in Pflugerville.
We settled on Pfluger Park (scouted here on a much gloomier day). That spot behind the bridge is where most of the photos were taken.
Next steps: the family decides what to wear, and I start memorizing names. I also create a loose shot list (entire family, grandparents with grand kids, etc.)
Session
The day of the session, I usually arrive 10-15 early to a location to double check where I want our spots to be. With a large group, we tend to have only 1-2 backgrounds. I make sure to get the largest group shot done first (especially if multiple little kids are involved).
I shoot a variety – the “everyone look at the camera” pose as well as ones that involve the family interacting with each other.
I really like to show that love and connection. It’s my favorite.
I make sure each grandchild gets their own portrait.
And that the parents get photos together without their kids as well.
With lots of other family combinations in-between. Such as sibling groups:
As well as each family unit by themselves.
It takes about an hour total.
Post-Session
Once the photos are done, the family gets to relax (I often hear that ice cream rewards are involved ;).
I go home and start downloading files to edit. And a few weeks later, blog post and galleries are ready to share!
1. How do you know Stephanie Friedman Photography?
Erika works with Stephanie.
2. What was your favorite part of your photo session?
Stephanie was so friendly, happy and nice to everyone!
3. What advice would you give to other families planning a photo session?
Be flexible to changes in plans due to weather, location, etc. Also bring water and snacks. It’s hard to smile when you’re hangry and thirsty.
Please enjoy this sneak peek of their extended family photo session images. To see all the photos and purchase prints from the gallery, click HERE.
If you’d like to book your own family session in Austin (or the surrounding area), contact me: