Michigan’s Upper peninsula
A beautiful setting for your extended family photos
From woods to waterfalls, from riverfront homes to vast lakeshore beaches, the UP has so much to offer.
Extended family
Extended family photoshoots were one of my most popular offerings in 2024 and this trend is only growing. But, getting everyone together and planning a session can be overwhelming! I’m here to help you plan the best extended family session, where we’ll create and document beautiful memories.
some things to keep in mind
what’s included
something for everyone.
During extended family sessions, we usually take 2-3 options for the big, everyone-together pose. This is the big priority! Then we’ll focus on:
I try to get both posed and candid photos of everyone – keep in mind that the larger the group, the more structured we will probably be.
We can take all the photos you’d like, and when you view your soft-proof gallery, you can choose only your favorites or opt for all of them!
the setting
I love photographing you in your favorite places – I think it makes the photos even more special for you to look at later. If you have a family camp, cottage, property, or special beach you like to visit, I would love to meet you there. I travel all over the Upper Peninsula for Sessions and love exploring new places.
If you are traveling to the UP on vacation, there are some gorgeous AirBnb options. Many are on lakefronts or near state parks which are beautiful settings.
If you are local to Escanaba, or coming to this area and don’t have a special setting in mind, I have a few favorite locations that I use and can bring you to.
Remember that your setting will dictate the feel of the photos – beaches will have a different tone and vibe than lush green forests. Keep in mind the colors that you like to wear, and the colors you like to decorate with – if you are hanging up your photos, you will want everything to be cohesive.
The time of year
Your biggest consideration is – when is everyone available? Schedules are the biggest hurdle for getting everyone together. It’s best to have a few days planned together, and flexibility for which day the session falls on in case of rain.
Next, consider the colors and tones your family loves. A beach setting will be lighter and airier. A summer forest will look very different than a fall forest. Snow can be a beautiful setting, but it can be very cold for little ones, and unpredictable from year to year.
And finally, keep bedtimes in mind. This is the most flexible as we can start sessions earlier if needed, but the best light is an hour or two before sunset – which is about 7 or 8 pm during peak summer months! The earliest I like to start sessions is 6pm. If you have kids who go to bed super early, September or October might be better options, when the sun starts setting earlier.
planning outfits
Whether you go super dressy or casual and comfortable, the most important thing is that your photos feel like you. There’s something to be said for pushing outside your comfort zone, but if you hate wearing dresses – don’t!
You’ll also want to make sure to be flexible for the weather. Even in July, upper Michigan can get some super chilly evenings. Layers like cardigans can both add interest and keep kiddos warm. If we are in the fall or winter months, definitely add on those layers, and add some cute scarves and mittens too!
You probably hear a lot, “Coordinate, don’t match.” But what does that mean? Having everyone wear the same color shirt and jeans can turn your group into a blob with faces. Instead, try one of these strategies:
- Wear all different shades of one color, such as blues. Mix in some warm or cool neutrals, depending on what you love.
- Pick 2-3 colors that coordinate (hint – check out a color wheel and pick colors on opposite sides, like cranberry and mustard). Have everyone choose outfits with these colors, plus some neutrals. Choose one pattern per 3-4 people so patterns don’t get overwhelming.
- Choose one patterned outfit and pull the colors out of it for everyone else to wear.
Fabrics with lots of texture, or flowing movement, all add interest and character to your photos and help bring them to life.
Bonus, when you book I always send a client guide with more details, and am here to help if you need it!
keeping everyone happy
From kids to adults, photos can feel like a chore you just don’t want to participate in. Remembering why you are doing this is a great way to start the session right.
Sometimes adult family members are less on-board than others. Reminding them how special these photos will be to everyone can help. We try to keep everything quick and light and fun, and all they have to do is be with their family and smile. I have many families say afterward, “Wow, that was actually fun!”
For kids, timing the session so they are not overtired or hungry is important. Bring snacks or drinks, and remember that they don’t have to be “on” the whole time. I like to take breaks and let kids explore – those moments offer chances for some really cute candid photos too! Make sure they are dressed for the weather so they are not cold.
Prepping kids that the session is going to be fun will help a lot. And, I always bring a prize box for the end too! If you need extra help, bribes like ice cream afterward can work wonders.
If a child has a favorite toy or blanket that makes them feel safe, those details can add precious memories to the session.
Overall it really is a painless experience – I know it can feel daunting, and I hate getting my picture taken as much as the next person to be honest! But afterward, I always realize it was fun, and I’m always so grateful for the photos we end up with.
is an extended family session for you?
Regular family sessions vs. extended family sessions each have pros and cons, and you’ll have to decide what meets your needs best at this stage in your life.
regular family sessions
extended family sessions
If you’re not sure what’s right for you, I’m always happy to answer any questions! Inquire below, or check out my Experience page for more info on what it’s like to work with me.
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