A Guide to Posing & Photographing Extended Families

Photographing extended families can feel a little overwhelming, but it doesn’t have to be. As a family photographer based in Lincoln, Nebraska, I’ve worked with groups of all sizes - grandparents, siblings, cousins, even the occasional family pet! The key is staying organized, relaxed, and making it fun for everyone. Whether you're a fellow photographer or a family thinking about booking a session, here’s my straightforward guide to posing and photographing extended families.

1. Plan Ahead

Communication is everything. Before the session, I ask the main contact (usually the one booking) a few key questions:

• How many people total?
• What group combinations are important to them?
• Are there any young kids or elderly family members?
• Is there a location in Lincoln that means something to them?
• Planning ahead saves a ton of time and stress the day of the shoot.

Local Tip: Pioneers Park, Holmes Lake, or any nice open field are great spots in Lincoln for extended family photos. They offer plenty of space, natural light, and beautiful uncluttered backgrounds.

2. Start With the Whole Group

I always begin with the big group photo when everyone’s energy is still high. It’s usually the most important shot, so I don’t wait until kids get wiggly or grandma gets tired.

Tips for Posing Large Families:

• Taller adults in the back or standing.
• Kids and shorter adults up front, either sitting or standing.
• Stagger heights to create a natural flow—avoid lining up everyone at the same eye level.
• Use props like stools, benches, or even logs to vary levels and make the group feel more dynamic.
• Slight angles look more relaxed than standing stiff in a straight line.

This helps the photo feel more balanced and less like a school picture day.

3. Break It Down Into Smaller Groups

Once the big group photo is done, I move quickly through smaller combinations. Here are some common ones I usually shoot:

• Grandparents with grandkids
• Adult siblings together
• Each individual family unit
• Grandparents with the whole group again (just in case!)

Moving quickly and clearly calling out the next group keeps things flowing. I let people know what to expect ahead of time, so no one is left wondering what's happening.

4. Keep It Natural

When it comes to posing, I lean more toward relaxed and natural. I’ll give light direction like:

“Get close like you actually like each other!”

“Look at the person who makes you laugh the most.”

“Tickle time for the kids!”

The best family photos come from real moments, not forced smiles. That’s why I always try to create a comfortable atmosphere, even with big groups.

5. Lighting and Location Matter

Golden hour (right after sunrise or before sunset) is ideal for family sessions, especially in wide-open spaces. But with big families, sometimes we have to work with midday light or tight time windows. In those cases, I find open shade—like the north side of buildings or under tall trees—to keep lighting soft and flattering.

6. Be Patient and Flexible

Things happen. A toddler melts down. Someone’s late. A dog escapes. I roll with it and keep things light. Extended family sessions can be chaotic, but they can also be full of love, laughter, and connection.

I bring a short list of shots, but I’m always ready to adjust if needed. Patience and a positive attitude go a long way.