There’s something incredibly special about gathering multiple generations in one frame — grandparents, siblings, cousins, and little ones, all connected by love. As a Layton Utah extended family photographer, I have the unique privilege of capturing these once-in-a-lifetime moments for families who want to celebrate their roots, their bonds, and their shared history.
Whether you’re local to Layton or planning a reunion in this beautiful part of Utah, extended family photography is one of the most meaningful investments you can make. Let’s explore what makes these sessions unforgettable and why Layton is the perfect backdrop for your family’s story.
Life moves fast. Before you know it, the kids are taller, the grandparents’ hugs feel even more precious, and cousins who used to play tag together are off at college or starting families of their own. An extended family photo session freezes time — giving you images that will be cherished for decades.
As a Layton Utah extended family photographer, I don’t just aim to take pictures; I aim to tell your family’s story. From candid giggles between cousins to the quiet connection of grandparents holding hands, my goal is to create a gallery of authentic, joy-filled moments that reflect your family’s unique personality.
One of the most beautiful things about extended family photography is the opportunity to celebrate all stages of life.
💛 Grandparents’ legacy – We make sure to highlight the matriarchs and patriarchs of the family, capturing tender moments between them and their grandchildren.
💛 Siblings and cousins – Whether they’re inseparable best friends or only see each other at holidays, the bond between cousins and siblings is something worth documenting.
💛 Individual families – In addition to group shots, I always include smaller family units so everyone leaves with portraits that fit on their own walls.
💛 Generational portraits – We’ll create timeless images that showcase generations together — perfect for printing as heirloom albums or wall art.
Each family is different, and I take care to design sessions that honor your family’s dynamics, traditions, and milestones.
Layton offers a stunning variety of locations that work beautifully for extended family photo sessions. From mountain vistas to quiet parks, this corner of Utah provides the perfect canvas for your portraits.
🏞 Ellison Park – With its wide-open spaces, lovely trees, and beautiful mountain views in the distance, Ellison Park is a favorite for large groups. It’s easy to access, and the light is magical at golden hour.
🏞 Adams Canyon Trailhead (lower areas) – If your family loves the outdoors, this spot offers a rustic, natural setting with trees, water, and soft grasses.
🏞 Layton Commons Park – For a classic, well-manicured backdrop, this park provides greenery, charming bridges, and paved paths that are ideal for grandparents and younger kids.
🏞 Your family property or home – Sometimes, the best backdrop is a place that’s filled with personal meaning. I love photographing extended families at their homes, farms, or cabins in Layton — where generations have gathered and memories have been made.
No matter the location, I help you choose a setting that feels right for your family’s style and comfort.
Working with extended families is a bit like hosting a joyful reunion — there’s laughter, a little organized chaos, and plenty of sweet moments in between. I bring a mix of structure and flexibility to every session.
📸 Guided poses + candid moments – We’ll start with the key groupings to make sure we get those all-important shots: full family, grandparents with grandkids, siblings, individual families, and so on. From there, we’ll have fun, letting the kids play and capturing natural interactions.
📸 A relaxed pace – Extended family sessions usually take a little longer than traditional family sessions — plan for 60-90 minutes. This allows time for breaks, snack stops, and letting everyone warm up to the camera.
📸 Patience and fun – I bring a cheerful, easygoing energy to help everyone feel at ease. From wrangling energetic toddlers to engaging teens and making grandparents comfortable, I’m here to help everyone enjoy the process.
Here are a few ways to set your family up for success:
✅ Coordinate (don’t match) – Aim for complementary colors and styles that reflect your family’s personality. Soft neutrals with pops of color often photograph beautifully in Layton’s natural light.
✅ Plan ahead – If you have a large group, designate a point person to help with communication and coordination. This helps the session go smoothly!
✅ Embrace the moments – The “perfect” photo isn’t always about everyone looking at the camera. Sometimes, it’s the belly laugh, the comforting hug, or the playful glance that becomes your favorite image.
There’s nothing quite like witnessing the joy of a grandparent holding a newborn great-grandchild or seeing cousins reconnect after months apart. As a Layton Utah extended family photographer, I feel honored every time I’m invited to document these milestones.
Photography isn’t just about images — it’s about creating art that reminds you of what matters most. It’s about turning fleeting moments into lasting memories. And in Layton, with its breathtaking landscapes and warm, welcoming families, I’m grateful to do this work.
If you’re looking for a Layton Utah extended family photographer who will guide you through a fun, meaningful experience — and deliver a gallery full of images that make your heart full — I’d love to connect.
Contact me today to start planning your session. Let’s create something beautiful together!