Quick Facts
Group Size
10+ people (grandparents, adult children, spouses, grandkids)
Ideal Time
Golden hour or soft morning light
Flow
Full group first, then smaller groupings (efficient + relaxed)
Delivery
Full edited gallery with high-res downloads + print rights
4-Step Planning Timeline
3–4 Weeks Out
Confirm headcount, choose date/location, note mobility needs, parking, and permits (if any).
10–14 Days Out
Finalize outfits/palette; share meeting point and “what to bring.”
3–5 Days Out
Send shot-list priorities; confirm weather plan; ensure everyone has directions.
Session Day
Arrive 10 minutes early; empty pockets; keep snacks simple + clear.
Choose a Family Coordinator
Pick one detail-savvy person to help gather everyone, keep phones/wallets out of pockets, and read off groupings. This keeps things moving and lets the rest of the family relax.
Outfits: Easy, Coordinated, Camera-Ready
- Coordinate, don’t match: Pick 2–3 complementary colors. Neutrals and earthy tones photograph beautifully in Utah’s landscapes.
- Keep patterns subtle: Small prints/textures are great; avoid neon, large logos, or clashing plaids.
- Layers add polish: Cardigans, vests, and light jackets add depth and help with temperature swings.
- Shoes & tech: Comfortable shoes for terrain; remove smart watches if possible.
- Glare care: Bring a microfiber cloth for glasses; a quick powder dab reduces shine.
Tip: Start with grandparents’ outfits, then build complementary colors around them.
Location & Accessibility
- Terrain: Let me know if anyone needs flat paths or benches. I’ll suggest easy-access spots.
- Parking & meeting point: I’ll provide a dropped pin and a simple map.
- Permits: Some parks/venues require permits; I’ll advise if applicable.
- Weather: We’ll decide together 24 hours before if we should adjust or reschedule.
Sample Shot List & Family Planner
Here’s the usual flow—we’ll tailor it to your family. Use the blanks to add must-haves.
- Full group (everyone)
- Grandparents + all grandkids
- Grandparents together
- Each nuclear family (parents + kids)
- Adult siblings together
- All cousins together
- Special pairings (anniversaries, birthdays, generational portraits)
Bring the planner or snap a phone photo to reference during the session.
Kids, Pets & Big-Group Tips
- Keep snacks clear and crumb-free (fruit snacks, mini crackers). Avoid lollipops or chocolate before photos.
- Pack wipes, water, hair brush, and a backup shirt for little ones.
- Assign one “eye-contact helper” behind the camera for grandkid shots.
- Leashed pets are welcome where permitted—bring a neutral leash and a handler.
- Celebrate small wins; we’ll move fast and keep things light.
Copy-Paste Message for Your Family
Send this 3–5 days before the session:
Hi family! Photo day is coming up. Please arrive 10 minutes early at <meeting point dropped pin>. Outfits: neutral/earthy colors, no neon/logos, comfy shoes. Bring: water, a small snack for kids, and wipes. Please empty pockets (phones/wallets/keys) and remove smart watches if possible. Shot list: Full group first, then grandparents + grandkids, each nuclear family, adult siblings, cousins, and any special pairings. Can’t wait! –<Your Name>
Day-Of Checklist
- Arrive 10 minutes early; park near the meeting point.
- Phones, wallets, keys out of pockets; smart watches off if possible.
- Bring wipes, water, lint roller, backup hair ties, and a small snack.
- Keep sunglasses off faces to avoid marks; clean eyeglass lenses.
- Assign one helper to cue kids behind the camera.
- Relax! We’ll keep the pace efficient and the smiles genuine.
If weather looks questionable, we’ll touch base the day prior with options.