Large Family Photo Ideas
As a Gatlinburg photographer I have captured weddings, elopements, proposals, and families of all sizes! Although I love photographing extended families, I also have a soft spot in my heart for capturing immediate family pictures. So today I want to talk about large family photo ideas while featuring a family of seven’s gallery! Not only will this article give you inspiration for outfits and poses, but I will also go over how to avoid some pain points of family photos with a lot of kids.
Location
Location is everything when planning family photos! With larger families I recommend choosing a spot that is far from major roads and has a lot of open space. This way you don’t have to worry about wandering children getting hurt or lost in the woods. I also advise steering clear of locations with water features as that can be a hazard for younger children.
Gatlinburg has dozens of stunning locations that fit this criteria! So if you want to drive into the Smoky Mountains or want to find a more local park, I will be able to find the perfect spot for you.
Outfits
It may seem a bit daunting to plan family photo outfits for so many people, so just keep it simple! Find a color palette you like that compliments the season and surroundings, and keep everyone within that palette. Try to keep you children in clothes that are comfortable and easy to move in so they are genuinely happy in pictures. And don’t buy all new outfits for everyone. More than likely you have something in your closet that will work perfectly!
Large Family Photo Ideas For Kids
Typically while working with large families, there are a lot of kids involved. Which I love! However, as a mom I know that there are pain points with trying to get everyone together, looking at one spot and smiling. Lucky for you, this isn’t something you need to worry about! My job as a Gatlinburg photographer is to capture the moment, get everyone to look, and to find ways to photograph your family best I can! Here are some ways I do that:
Start With Candid
If your children aren’t super comfortable in front of the camera, then I like to start with candid photos. These are a beautiful way to celebrate and capture their childhood. How they play and laugh together. What kind of shenanigans they get into. Plus, its a fun way to “warm up” to the camera and photographer.
Family Photos
It is always my goal to get at least one photo of everyone looking and smiling at the camera. Portraits like these capture everyone together and make great photos to hang on your wall or send out with holiday cards. Older children usually will smile at the camera, but the younger kids can be a little tricky! If you have a favorite toy or treat I can hold, that always helps get the shot!
Individual Portraits
I love keeping portraits of my boys through the years, so I want to make sure my clients get that same thing! During our family photo session together I will be sure to pull each person aside to get individual photos. Depending on the child they may be a more candid style or posed style.
Gatlinburg Family Photos
Capturing large family photos can be a joyful and rewarding experience, especially when planned thoughtfully. From choosing the perfect, safe location to coordinating comfortable outfits and embracing both candid and posed moments, there are countless ways to make your family session memorable. As a Gatlinburg photographer, I take pride in guiding families through this process and delivering beautiful images that celebrate each member's unique personality and the bond you share. Ready to book your family photos? Reach out!
