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When was the last time your entire family gathered in one place… and actually got a photo together that wasn’t a blurry iPhone attempt from someone’s elbow?

Let me set the scene: the living room is full of voices, there’s a pie in the oven that’s probably about to burn, and Grandma is trying to get everyone to be quiet for “just one nice picture.” We’ve all been there, and let’s be honest, the results can be a little chaotic. But when a family reaches out to me to plan a winter break photo session… something truly magical happens.

Every year around Christmas, one of my favorite sessions pop up: the multi-generational family shoot. Everyone’s in town, the streets of Savannah are glowing a little brighter, and the energy is festive but full of heart. It’s become a tradition for some of my clients, and honestly, it’s one of the best parts of the holiday season.

Why Multi-Generational Photos Matter (Especially Now)

Let’s be real – these moments don’t happen often.

Between busy calendars, scattered family members, and the very real truth that we lose people we love as the years go on… getting a photo with everyone is a big deal. I remember as a kid, we traveled to West Virginia and Virginia for family reunions pretty often. Everyone showed up. There were group pictures (usually in someone’s backyard with questionable lighting), and now that so many of the oldest generation have passed on, those photos are gold.

They aren’t just pictures. They’re time capsules.

They remind us of who we were, who we loved, and how lucky we were to be together in that moment.

But planning one of these shoots comes with a few challenges. The good news? With the right guidance, it doesn’t have to be stressful or stiff. In fact, it can be easy… and even kind of fun.

How to Rock Your Multi-Generational Family Shoot

Prioritize Comfort Over Style Perfection

I say this every year, and I’ll keep saying it: Do. Not. Overthink. The. Outfits.

Skip the perfect Pinterest-matching look and go for something foolproof like shades of blue and neutrals. Think jeans, blue tops, maybe some soft khakis. The goal isn’t to look like a family band with a choreographed wardrobe – it’s to make sure everyone feels like themselves, and that they’re comfortable enough to enjoy being in front of the camera.

Also… you don’t want to be the one wrangling Uncle Larry out of his Crocs. Trust me. Let him keep them – just hide him in the back row.

Timing is Everything (Especially for Kids and Grandparents)

Here’s something people often forget: toddlers and great-grandparents have about the same attention span for photos. That means we’re working with a tight window.

The trick? Have the “in-between” generation – parents, aunts, uncles, siblings – ready first. Don’t bring Grandma or the littlest kids into the mix until we’re actually about to shoot.

Also, consider location logistics. Not everyone can wander downtown or hike across uneven terrain. We’ll pick a spot that’s easy to access, comfortable to stand in, and still gives that beautiful Savannah vibe.

Let Go of “Perfect” (Real Moments Are Better Anyway)

I say this every session, and I mean it: perfection is overrated.

Some of the best shots happen when nobody’s looking at the camera. When grandkids are whispering silly things to Grandpa, or when a teenager breaks into a real smile because their mom said something embarrassing. That’s the good stuff.

So don’t stress about every hair being perfectly in place or every kid smiling at the same time. The beauty of multi-generational portraits is in the feeling – warmth, connection, a little chaos, and a lot of love.

Why This Tradition is Worth Fighting for

There’s something sacred about carving out 30 minutes to an hour during winter break to document your family – all of them.

You’re not just getting a nice photo for the living room wall (though that’s definitely a bonus). You’re creating something that your kids, grandkids, and future generations will look at and say, “Wow, look at all of us together.”

If you’re already together in Savannah this holiday season… maybe this is the year to make the photo happen.

Ready to Capture Your Family’s Story?

If you’re planning a visit to Savannah during Thanksgiving or Christmas, let’s chat. I make the process easy (promise), and it’s one of the most meaningful gifts you can give your family this year.

Click here to learn more about booking a multi-generational session in Savannah. I’ll help with location ideas, outfit tips, and even handle managing group energy so you can just focus on being present.

Let’s make it a tradition you’ll actually look forward to – Crocs and all.