Manhasset family photographer Paula Brearley

Extended Family Sessions: Capturing Timeless Memories


Extended family sessions are one of the most meaningful ways to celebrate your loved ones. Whether it’s grandparents, aunts, uncles, cousins, or multiple generations all together, these sessions bring everyone into the frame to create lasting memories that will be treasured for years to come.


Tips for a Successful Extended Family Session


1. Choose the Right Location

A spacious location is key when photographing a large group. Outdoor spots like Central Park, the beach, or a family backyard often provide the perfect setting, giving everyone room to gather while creating a beautiful backdrop.


2. Coordinate Outfits

Encourage family members to coordinate colors and tones rather than matching exactly. Neutral palettes, soft hues, or complementary shades photograph beautifully and help the group look cohesive without appearing overly styled.


3. Plan Ahead

Good communication ensures a smooth experience. Share details about the schedule, location, and expectations so everyone arrives prepared. This helps the session feel relaxed and enjoyable from start to finish.


4. Stay Flexible

With many people involved, things may not go exactly as planned—and that’s perfectly okay. Being flexible allows for genuine moments and keeps the atmosphere light and fun.


5. Capture All the Relationships

Beyond the big group portrait, extended family sessions offer opportunities for smaller, more intimate groupings: grandparents with grandchildren, siblings together, or cousins laughing side by side. These images highlight the unique connections that make your family special.


6. Keep It Fun

The most memorable photographs come from genuine joy. Encouraging everyone to laugh, play, and be themselves results in natural, heartfelt images you’ll treasure forever.


Why Extended Family Sessions Matter


These gatherings don’t happen every day. An extended family session is more than just a photo shoot—it’s a way to celebrate your family’s history, honor traditions, and preserve moments that will be cherished for generations to come.


If you’ve been thinking about scheduling an extended family session, now is the perfect time. Reach out today to plan a beautiful experience that brings your loved ones together in front of the camera.

Manhasset Asian family of four smiling with grandmother against a white backdrop captured by NYC family photographer
Manhasset Asian man and his senior mother smiling against a white backdrop
Elder asian couple in Manhasset smiling captured by Paula Ortiz during an extended family session at home
Elder asian couple against a white backdrop in Manhasset captured during an extended family session
Family of four leaning into each other in black and white captured by Paula Ortiz Manhasset family photographer
Candid scene of Asian family with four kids smiling at each other with white backdrop
Extended family standing up next to each other smiling in Manhasset against a white backdrop
Extended family of 26 and multiple generations together in their backyard in Manhasset
Extended family of 26 and multiple generations together during a candid moment laughing in their backyard in Manhasset
Adult family with adult children smiling in Manhasset against a white backdrop

All rights reserved. Copyright Paula Brearley 2026. Manhasset Family Photographer.

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