Have you ever thought about signing up your family for an extended family session in Santa Barbara, but just aren’t sure what all the session would entail?


Well, this blog is just for you! An extended family session is a session that includes more than just two generations (parents and kids), rather it includes grandparents, parents, grandchildren, and possibly great grandparents or grandchildren. These sessions are a wonderful opportunity to capture all your loved ones. While we may not see them very often, these sessions bring everyone together for memories that will last for generations. Here are some helpful tips to help you prepare for your extended family session with me in Santa Barbara!

Who is included in an extended family session?


As previously mentioned, these sessions include multiple generations of your family. For example, if your parents had three children. Your extended family session would include: your parents, you and your family, and your siblings and their families. 

Where will we go?


Your extended family session will take place outside in beautiful Santa Barbara, with nature as your backdrop. You can decide to have the sand between your toes or underneath the giant oak tree. I have a variety of locations to meet the request of you and your family.

What can we expect from our session?


These sessions are real and honest. I want to capture your family just as you are now. I strive to communicate love and connection through my camera, think of it as less posing and props. Rather, a collection of candid moments that express joy and emotion. Don’t worry, I will capture a group shot with everyone looking at the camera at the beginning of your session. 


We will start off with big group photographs and then move on to individual families. Think of these as family mini-sessions! Then we'll move on to grandparents with grandkids together, adult siblings together, and finish with more whole family group photographs with lots of candid moments mixed in!


You can also expect to receive a private gallery to view, share, and download your photos. Your gallery will include, at minimum, 90 images in both color and black and white. Each family unit will also receive their own individualized luxury photo album from your session. 

When will our session take place?


Your session will take place during the magical golden hour. My sessions begin one and a half hours before sunset. This time is referred to as golden hour because the lighting is much softer than the harsh light of day. With the sun being so low in the sky, it creates a warm, golden glow that truly is magical.

Can a family member leave half way through our session?


Kindly ensure that everyone participating in the session can remain present for its entirety. It breaks up the flow if someone needs to leave partway through.

How do I sign up?


Are you and your family ready to sign up for your extended family session? That is fantastic and I am so excited to meet you and capture your family! Start by clicking the button below! From there, you will fill out my contact form and I will be in touch with available dates!

There are not enough words to describe how special these extended family sessions are and I truly hope you and your family consider an extended family session next time everyone is together in Santa Barbara. I know it isn’t easy to get everyone together, but these moments together create magical memories that you can look back on for years. I promise it is worth it!