Extended family photo sessions hold such a tender place in my heart. They’re a little more complex to coordinate—but the moments they capture are some of the most meaningful. When Jill’s family decided to celebrate her milestone birthday with a weekend away, they chose Blowing Rock, NC, a quiet, scenic spot in the Blue Ridge Mountains that matched their love of the outdoors and their desire to be together.
And with their bright-eyed 2.5-year-old granddaughter at the center of it all, it turned into a joyful evening filled with laughter, snuggles, and moments this family wants to remember forever. 💛
A Picture-Perfect Setting for Family Photos
North Carolina’s mountains are filled with beautiful places for extended family photos—each one offering a different kind of magic. Blowing Rock happened to be just right for this session: wide mountain views, soft summer light, and quiet corners where this three-generation family could relax and be themselves.
This location was perfect for this family, because it offered:
- Gorgeous views without needing a strenuous hike (ideal for all ages!)
- Cozy mountain-town vibes perfect for a weekend getaway
- Gorgeous golden hour light, especially in late summer
- Room to roam for little ones—like this sweet granddaughter
It wasn’t just about the views (although the Blue Ridge Mountains did show off a bit!). It was about the feeling—the kind of place that lets a family just breathe and be together.
Why Extended Family Photos Are Worth It (Even With the Logistics)
Extended family sessions do take a little more planning—coordinating calendars, travel, nap schedules, outfits—but they give back so much more than they ask. This session gave Jill and her family beautiful images of:
- Grandparents cuddling their granddaughter
- Sweet snuggles with a favorite stuffed animal (that blue lovey was clearly loved!)
- Generational portraits that will mean even more as time passes
- Soft smiles, tight squeezes, and belly laughs in the golden mountain light
- The kind of looks grandparents give their grandkids—the ones that say, “you are everything.”
Photos like these become family treasures. They get printed, framed, shared, and passed down.
This is why I do what I do—to help families hold onto the moments that matter most.
Keep scrolling to see more sweet moments from this beautiful mountain session.
Thinking About Your Own Family Gathering?
If you’re planning a family getaway—or just thinking ahead to your next gathering—consider carving out a little time for an extended family photo session. Whether it’s a mountain town like Blowing Rock or a breezy spot by the beach, I’d love to help you capture your family in a way that feels real and meaningful.
👉 Inquire about booking your extended family session »
0
0