Can you imagine a better Mother’s Day gift than new photos with the whole family — from grandkids to grandparents? This husband surprised his wife (grandmom) with these extended family photos in Bucks County PA. These photos will be a family heirloom, and everyone involved will enjoy them for years to come.
CAPTURING THE WHOLE FAMILY
Extended family sessions are becoming more and more popular these days. It’s such a great way to bring everyone together and capture that connection on film for a treasured memory. It’s also incredibly convenient to get different combinations of family members for a variety of images. We don’t always think to photograph cousins together or aunts and uncles with the kids. But for most of us, family is a crucial part of our life experience.
We captured these extended family photos in the Bucks County outdoor studio location. Most of our extended family sessions take place here. It’s a beautiful stone farmhouse with vintage details, built-in 1886. And it’s located conveniently in the heart of Newton PA. With ample parking and bathrooms inside, it’s the perfect spot for large family shoots. The trees are vibrant year-round for beautiful images infused with nature, and the front porch is an ideal spot for portraits. The studio has a comfortable feeling of home, allowing everyone to simply be themselves instead of worrying about “poses.”
TIPS FOR EXTENDED FAMILY PHOTOS IN BUCKS COUNTY (OR ANYWHERE!)
There are a few things to keep in mind to help your family photo session go as smoothly as possible and get the pictures you’ll adore for years to come.
- Coordinate outfits. With a large group, it’s important to choose one or two people to be in charge. Allow them to choose a color scheme and then let everyone else follow their direction. A simple color scheme will look great in photos and allow the focus to be on the family connection. Some popular choices are navy and yellow, white and burgundy, navy and gray, or navy and white. Keep it simple.
- Pick a convenient location. When you’ve got different families coming from different areas, you want to choose a spot that’s easy to get to and has everything you need accessible. An outdoor location is perfect because it allows more space for everyone to be comfortable — especially when there are young children involved. And using the natural surroundings like trees and bushes as part of the backdrop works well to create stunning, lively images.
- Keep an open mind. Let the photographer be the guide, and trust that they will help you get the most flattering images — especially when there are young kids involved. Kids need clear direction from one source, and if several people are instructing them, they won’t know who to listen to. The photographer is there to lead your family into the best possible portraits, so keep your mind open to guidance.
For a little bit more guidance, check out my post with 3 simple clothing tips. And when you are ready to get your own spectacular extended family photos in Bucks County, contact me here. I’m ready to make it happen!
Heather Thomas is an award-winning family and newborn photographer serving Philadelphia and Ocean City, NJ. She holds a Master Photographer Certification from NAPCP in newborn, children and family photography. Known for her organic and simple style, Heather’s work has been featured in magazines and online publications around the country.
