Generational family photoshoots are one of my most favourite things to shoot. Yes, they’re harder to coordinate and are often chaotic…and yes it’s nearly impossible to get everyone smiling and looking at the camera at the same time. But believe me, these are some of the most memorable portraits you’ll ever have. It fills my bucket to include grandparents in the experience, knowing that they will hang their favourite photo on their wall and be so proud of the beautiful and loving family they created. 

I met and photographed Maria (far left above) earlier this year for personal branding images for her business Projects by Maria that we shot in her home in Port Coquitlam. I was thrilled when she reached out for an extended family session, including her parents, sister, brother and his family. Trying to coordinate schedules and outfits for your immediate household can be daunting, let alone 10 people but she was so patient getting everything organized and we settled on a Saturday morning in May at Pitt Lake in Pitt Meadows, BC. 

I’ve shot at Pitt Lake plenty of times, but it was busier than we could have expected when we arrived! With the BC travel restrictions in place due to Covid, it seems like everyone decided to hit up the local lakes instead! We had to park over. a kilometre from the picnic area but we found a little shady spot on the dyke that wasn’t busy and had the best time capturing everyone. They were so relaxed and welcoming, there was lots of laughing and even some bubbles! It was everything an extended family should be – easy and fun. We lucked out with the gorgeous weather and look at those mountains! Pitt Meadows is truly a gem (but shhh don’t tell anyone!)

Thanks again Maria, you have the best family and I hope you guys enjoy your images for years to come!

When was the last time you took a photo with your parents? Or with your siblings? Probably at a graduation, a wedding or a funeral. These large family photos are more meaningful because you don’t take them very often – most people do family photos each year but extended family sessions are usually years apart, if ever! Plus they make the perfect gift for grandparents, it’s both an experience and a keepsake in one. The older I get, the more I just want time with my family and photos on my walls. 

Aside from the large group photos, we’ll do as many different combinations as you want – grandparents together, each individual family, siblings, etc. The session will flow at your pace and the best part is that you get to choose which images you want to purchase at the reveal session. For more information on this type of session, check out the Lifestyle Portraits page or contact me to book your free consultation.