How I Photograph Big Family Groups | Maui Photographer
One of my favorite types of sessions to photograph here on Maui is extended families - grandparents, adult kids, and their little ones! Recently, I had the sweetest morning at Fleming Beach with a big, loving family, and it reminded me just how special these sessions are.
Extended family sessions are all about connection - documenting multiple generations together in one place. And to make sure the experience feels fun and stress-free, I always approach them with a little strategy.
How I photograph extended families
We started the morning around 8 AM - late enough that the kids were rested, but early enough to enjoy soft light and a quiet beach. I always begin with the big group portraits first while the kids are fresh, focused, and (usually!) still clean. These are the shots grandma loves - everyone together, smiling at the camera!
These are the shots grandma loves - everyone together, smiling at the camera!
After group shots, we break it down into smaller combinations:
✔️ Each individual family
✔️ Grandparents with grandkids
✔️ Just the kids
✔️ Just grandparents
✔️ Parents together
✔️ Individual shots of the kids
✔️Any other special combinations you’d like
I like to mix posed photos with candid moments, letting personalities shine. By the end of the session, the kids are usually ready to play - and that’s my favorite part! The kids at this session were full of energy, and we captured the most joyful, carefree moments of them running through the sand, splashing in the water, and laughing with their cousins. Meanwhile, the grandparents watched with so much happiness - those are the kinds of memories worth preserving forever.
The entire session took about 1–1.5 hours, giving us plenty of time to create a gallery full of variety.
When everything is edited, I deliver your images in an online gallery that you can easily share with the entire family so everyone can download their favorites - no need to send files around!
If you’re planning a trip to Maui with your extended family, I’d love to help you capture this special time together. These seasons of life go by so fast - and having all generations in the frame is something you’ll be so grateful to look back on!
