Session Inspiration: Extended Family at the Golden Gate Bridge

This family had an adult sibling who was moving to New York soon, so they booked an extended family session to capture all three generations together—grandparents, adult siblings, and that sweet first grandbaby getting doted on by everyone.

We photographed them in San Francisco with the iconic Golden Gate Bridge in the background and a beautiful wooded area nearby. But we didn’t stop there—the family that gifted her parents the session also booked a separate studio session to get updated family photos and a quick kid’s portrait. (Pro tip: when you book multiple sessions within 6 months, you’ll get a discount.)

One of the best parts of extended sessions is the variety: I always make sure we get every combo—generations of women, grandparent and grandchild snuggles, adult sibling laughs, each nuclear family unit, and of course, everyone together. These sessions are a gift to everyone involved. Yes, it’s about the big group shot, but it’s also about those quieter moments that happen in between: a tight hug, a toddler’s giggle, the kind of joy that only shows up when your people are all in one place.

And if you're worried about coordinating that many people—don’t be. I've got over a decade of experience wrangling families with zero stress. All you have to do is show up, smile, and soak in the love. These sessions are longer than a typical session to make sure we are able to get all of the combinations as well as some candid in-between moments, so please reach out directly if you are interested in one and I can get you a custom quote based on the side and makeup of your family!