Everything You Need to Know About Your Extended Family Portrait Session on Cape Cod
If you’ve ever tried to gather grandparents, adult siblings, partners, kids, and maybe even a dog or two for photos, you already know it’s no small feat. That’s exactly why extended family portrait sessions are so meaningful, and why thoughtful planning makes all the difference.
Below, I’m sharing everything you need to know so you can feel relaxed, prepared, and genuinely excited for your session.
What Is an Extended Family Portrait Session?
An extended family session includes all immediate and extended family members — grandparents, adult children, grandchildren, spouses, and pets. These sessions are designed to capture:
The full family together
Individual family units
Grandparents with grandchildren
Siblings and cousins
Natural, in-between moments you’ll treasure later
It’s a blend of gently guided portraits and candid connection, so nothing feels stiff or overly posed.
Why Cape Cod Is the Perfect Backdrop
Cape Cod offers a timeless, neutral, and naturally beautiful setting — soft dunes, open beaches, historic paths, and quiet stretches of coastline that photograph beautifully.
Many families choose Cape Cod because:
It’s a meaningful gathering place
Everyone is already together on vacation
The scenery feels classic and never dated
Travel anywhere on Cape Cod is included, so we can choose the location that best fits your family.
When Is the Best Time to Schedule?
Extended family sessions are most often scheduled:
Late afternoon or early evening for soft light
During summer vacations or long weekends
Please note: summer evenings on Cape Cod book quickly, especially for larger family groups. I always recommend reserving your date as soon as possible.
What to Wear (Without Overthinking It)
The goal is coordination — not matching.
I recommend:
Soft neutrals (cream, beige, gray, soft blues)
Muted coastal tones
Minimal logos or bold patterns
You can choose a color palatte so each person can choose something that fits within that, while still reflecting their own style.
How the Session Flows
Extended family sessions are designed to feel calm and organized.
Here’s what you can expect:
Start with the full group while everyone is fresh
Break into smaller family units
Photograph grandparents with grandchildren
Capture natural moments in between (lifestyle/ documentary images)
I usually see where everyone falls in line, and can then make small adjustments or move people around if needed.
Investment & Products
Extended family sessions include:
All family members
Travel anywhere on Cape Cod
A curated online gallery
The option to include albums and wall art
Most families choose to create at least one album or statement wall piece so these images don’t live only on a screen. I offer stunning linen albums and heirloom wall art.