There’s something pretty special about getting the whole family together for photographs. Not just Mum, Dad and the kids, but grandparents, cousins, aunties, uncles and everyone in between.
For this extended family photography session in Cairns, we headed out to a beautiful open field as the sun began to set. With the warm evening light, plenty of space for the little ones to explore and the whole family together, it was a lovely setting for some relaxed, timeless photographs.
Photographs of the Whole Family, Together
One of my favourite things about extended family sessions is the opportunity to photograph all those different relationships within one family.
Of course, we make time for that all-important photograph of everyone together. But I also love capturing the smaller family groups, grandparents with their grandchildren, siblings together and those little in-between moments that happen when everyone is simply enjoying each other’s company.
These are the photographs that become even more meaningful as the years go by.
Why I Love Sunset Family Photography Sessions
While I photograph plenty of families in their own homes, there’s something beautiful about heading outdoors in the late afternoon.
The soft, golden light just before sunset is particularly lovely for family photography. An open field gives children room to move, play and be themselves, while providing a simple, natural backdrop that keeps the focus on the people in the photographs.
My approach to family photography has always been relaxed. I’ll offer direction when we need it, particularly for the larger group photographs, but I also want everyone to feel comfortable enough to laugh, cuddle and enjoy being together.
Because the photographs I love most aren’t necessarily the ones where everyone is looking perfectly at the camera. They’re the ones that remind you how it felt to be there.
Extended Family Photography Is About More Than One Group Photo
When booking an extended family session, it’s easy to think the main goal is simply getting everyone into one photograph.
And while that photograph is certainly important, there’s so much more we can capture.
I like to allow time for a variety of combinations, including individual family units, grandparents with their grandchildren, couples and siblings. We can also create some more natural photographs of the children playing or everyone spending time together.
The result is a gallery that tells a much fuller story of your family, rather than just one moment in time.
Planning Your Own Extended Family Photography Session in Cairns?
Whether your family lives locally or you’re bringing everyone together for a holiday in Far North Queensland, an extended family photography session is a beautiful way to celebrate this season of life.
I photograph families throughout Cairns, the Northern Beaches, Palm Cove and Port Douglas, offering both relaxed outdoor sessions and more personal, activity-led sessions at home.
If you’ve been thinking about organising photographs with the grandparents, cousins or the whole extended family, I’d love to hear from you.
I’m Lizzy, a family photographer working throughout Cairns and Port Douglas, creating natural, timeless photographs of the people you love most.
Explore my family photography sessions and pricing
