Extended Family Photos in Kalamazoo: A Four-Generation Legacy
- sarahrypma
- Sep 1
- 1 min read
For me, extended family photos in Kalamazoo are never just about a portrait—they’re about connection. This session began with the smallest detail: a baby asleep in her 98-year-old great-grandmother’s lap, surrounded by the hands and arms of the women who came before her—her mother, her grandmother, and her great-grandmother.

At 98, Grandma’s mobility meant she stayed in her chair for the entire session. But instead of being a limitation, it became the heart of the story. One by one, her family gathered around her—leaning in, laughing, and holding tight.




When I look back on this session, what stands out most—beyond the obvious joy—are the details: the hands resting on her lap, the tiny toes cradled with such care, the way every gesture seemed to say, you are surrounded by love




After the four-generation portraits, we moved into smaller pairings—grandparents with their granddaughter, quiet snuggles, and the in-between moments.






A portrait of a baby on her own is precious (and a must!) but when you see her surrounded by the arms, hands, and laughter of the women who came before her, the meaning deepens. That’s why extended family photos in Kalamazoo are never just about a portrait—they’re about connection, legacy, and the love that binds generations together. Ready to tell your story? Let's chat.