Planning your extended family photography session

Just imagine those family photos years to come with your children and their grandparents, you with your adult siblings and your children playing with their cousins, all in the one gallery. That is what we are planning today - Melbourne, Victoria!

As a professional family photographer, my passion lies in capturing the genuine connections and unique stories that make your family special. Planning an extended family photography session is an incredible way to document the love and bonds that span generations. Whether you're gathering your immediate family or inviting grandparents, aunts, uncles, and cousins, here’s why working with me will make your session unforgettable.

1. Capturing Real, Genuine Connections

One of the most cherished parts of my job is seeing real connection and capturing it, knowing one day, when you need it most, there will be beautiful images of your family connection at your finger tips. My approach focuses on creating a candid environment where your family can interact naturally, where we can unlock these moments. These are the moments that truly reflect the heart of your family. Imagine the laughter shared between siblings, the tender glances between grandparents and grandchildren, or the playful interactions among cousins. These genuine moments are not only beautiful but are also a testament to your family's legacy. By allowing me to capture these interactions, you’re preserving the real connections that make your family unique and treasured.

2. Honoring Your Family Story with Professional Quality Images

In today's fast-paced world, it’s often challenging to find the time to take meaningful family photos, especially ones that include everyone - after all, it's generally YOU that is missing from the images as you are constantly taking them. How many times have you found yourself scrolling through your phone images only to realise that you aren't in any of them or they feel posed (because you had to ask someone to take the photo)? Or the quality isn’t quite what you hoped for? As your photographer, I bring professional expertise to ensure that every image honors your family’s story with the highest quality. My goal is to create images where every family member is beautifully represented and where candid connection is celebrated, allowing you to be present in the moment rather with those you love most. From behind the camera I have seen the way child look deeply into their parents eyes, parents of young children hold hands and take that a moment to see each other again, and with eyes full of tears, see families come together and hold each other facing into illness of a family member. Each gallery boldly holding images of how deeply you love and are loved.

These images become treasured keepsakes, telling the story of your family in a way that’s both artistic and heartfelt.

3. Flexible Cost Scale for All Family Sizes

Every family is unique, and so are their photography needs. Whether you’re looking to capture intimate moments with just your immediate family or wish to include extended family members, my flexible cost scale accommodates your preferences. This approach allows you to create a session that fits your vision and budget. Imagine having a gallery of photos featuring your children with their grandparents, you and your adult siblings, and the next generation of cousins playing together. These images become invaluable as they capture the essence of your family across generations, creating a legacy that will be cherished for years to come.

So let's start planning your extended family photography session.

Reach out and let's chat about dates

To make sure that session times work best for working families, and children's sleeping patterns, I predominately offer extended family sessions throughout the year on Saturday mornings. During the summer months I also offer sunset sessions towards the end of the day. Schedule your photography session for the end of day, then all gather together for a meal and continue making memories into the warm summer evenings.

Park, Forest, Beach or Home. We choose a location in Melbourne together

I have a number of favourite locations I can share, or if you have a favourite location special to your family, please let me know. We can capture your session there.

Planning and payment

I have a short questionnaire (webform) that I share with you. I want to understand what is important to your family and get a feel for what you would love to see in your gallery. I also invoice you for 50% of your session fee as a booking fee upfront to secure your session date. The second part of your invoice is due on the day of your session, once the session has taken place.

Your photography session

On the day I arrive a smidge early to check the light and find some great locations for us. I love to make each session different and truly interactive. I like to avoid stiff poses (because they feel awkward... and you know... kids rarely like to follow orders), but instead opt for 'directions'. Expect prompts for large family groups like 'on the count of three change positions and stand next to someone who has the same shoe colour' or 'okay everyone tickle grandpa'. And for some of those smaller more intimate combinations 'can you write the first letter of your name with your nose on Mum's cheek?' or just you and your partner 'can you walk out the to the tree, hold hands and without talking about the kids, take in what it is like to just be together again'. You get the picture. Considered instructions to draw out real emotions and moments that highlight your closeness, fun nature and love.

Gallery delivery

Your gallery will include high resolution jpeg images provided digitally typically within 1 month of your session. It will be available for you to download and print as you please. The gallery will be housed for 3 months before it is taken down so please (please, please, please) download ALL the images and back them up to several locations so they are safe and sound. I shoot so many family sessions a year, I cannot hold galleries online for extended periods of time.

Images are professionally edited in my signature style, however please note, I do not alter or augment body shapes during the editing process. We are here to capture your natural beauty as your family see you.

Creating Lasting Memories

Planning an extended family photography session is more than just organising a photoshoot; it’s about creating lasting memories. It’s about coming together as a family, sharing laughter and love, and capturing these moments in a way that will be treasured for generations. The photographs we create together will not only decorate your home but will also serve as a visual history of your family’s journey.

Let's Capture Your Family’s Unique Story

I invite you to consider the joy and value of an extended family photography session. Together, we can create a beautiful collection of images that celebrate your family’s unique connections and stories. Whether it’s a small gathering or a large family reunion, I’m here to help you every step of the way, from planning to capturing those perfect moments. Let’s make your family’s legacy shine through professional, heartfelt photographs.

If you’re ready to start planning your session or have any questions, feel free to reach out. I look forward to capturing the genuine connections and cherished memories that make your family special.

Marisa xx