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6 Must-Have Photos in Every Large Family Photo Session in Kalamazoo

Updated: Jul 24

What to expect—from timeless group portraits to real, unposed moments


There’s a special kind of magic in gathering the whole family—grandparents, siblings, cousins, toddlers, and teens—for a shared photo session. My large family photo sessions in Kalamazoo are intentionally layered, full of personality, laughter, and the relationships that make your family unique.


Below are a few favorite images from different families I’ve worked with—each one highlighting a moment that belongs in every extended family session.


The Full Family Portrait

Whether you're framing it for the mantle or using it for holiday cards, the full family portrait is a must. I capture both standing and seated versions to accommodate accessibility and give you timeless options.

Extended family standing together in front of tall green arborvitae trees at sunset, smiling and holding hands, with a warm sunburst peeking through the trees
Three generations of family posing on a leaf-covered path with colorful autumn trees and a white farmhouse in the background, smiling in soft golden hour light

Each Family Unit Together

It’s not just about the big group! I photograph each nuclear family as a standalone set. These images are often the ones that get printed for hallway galleries and shared with friends. I also make the time to capture siblings together when I photograph each family unit.

Family of four sitting on a decorated front porch during winter, dressed in coordinated outfits with Christmas greenery and festive wreaths in the background
Two young girls wearing Santa hats, sitting arm in arm on a porch step, smiling in holiday dresses with a Christmas tree beside them

Generational Bonds: Grandparents + Grandkids

These are some of the most heartwarming moments to document—especially because they can feel fleeting. Whether it's a gentle hug, a playful whisper, or a shared laugh, these images hold a special place in every gallery.

Close-up of a joyful grandmother with silver hair and glasses hugging her young grandson tightly, both smiling with eyes closed in a tender moment
Grandparents and grandchildren laughing and playing in a large pile of autumn leaves, with one child jumping into the pile and everyone smiling in the golden afternoon light

Candid Interactions

Some of the best moments happen between the poses. I stay tuned in to the small gestures and spontaneous moments, so that, when you look back at your photos years from now, you’ll remember the sounds, expressions, and energy of the day.

Grandparents sitting on a brick porch step, smiling and engaging warmly with their two young granddaughters, all dressed in cozy fall clothing and sharing a joyful moment.
Smiling mother holding her baby girl dressed in red velvet with a matching headband, both laughing together in front of a festive Christmas wreath and holiday greenery
Grandparents laughing and playfully tickling their two young grandchildren on a backyard bench, surrounded by blooming hydrangeas and lush greenery
Back view of a family walking hand-in-hand down a paved path at sunset, with a young toddler in the center wearing a denim jacket and red sneakers, bathed in golden light
Grandparents embracing five smiling grandchildren in a joyful group hug on a holiday-decorated porch, with festive greenery and a Christmas tree in the background

Individual Portraits of Each Child

These aren’t stiff, yearbook-style headshots—they’re relaxed, personality-filled portraits that let kids feel comfortable and seen. Parents love these as milestone markers.

oung girl lying in a pile of autumn leaves, laughing with her mouth wide open and wearing a pale pink sweater, surrounded by brown and golden foliage
Mother gently kissing her baby girl on the forehead, dressed in a red velvet holiday outfit and matching headband, with the baby gazing softly at the camera.
Close-up of a smiling young boy with curly blonde hair and blue eyes, lying on an outdoor pillow and looking up with a playful expression

Pets Welcome!

Furry friends are always included when they join the session. Whether it’s a goofy French bulldog or a senior golden retriever, I make space to capture their role in your family, too.

Small white dog held by family members during golden hour, with warm sunlight streaming between them and everyone leaning in to show affection
"Young girl smiling closely at a French bulldog as she gently holds its face, with the dog sticking out its tongue and lush greenery in the background.

Large Family Photo Session in Kalamazoo = Legacy

A large family gallery isn’t just a set of posed shots—it’s a visual record of love, legacy, and connection. By intentionally capturing these six key moments, I make sure your gallery feels natural, heartfelt, and worth passing down.

Extended family of eleven walking together down a dirt path through a prairie at sunset, with golden light and a dramatic sky overhead
Multi-generational family walking side by side down a paved path toward the sunset, casting long shadows across the road in a tree-lined park

Thinking about booking a large family photo session in Kalamazoo? Let's Chat—I’d love to help you tell your family’s story.

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