I am obsessed with these extended family photos we took in Shelley Idaho! I know it can be so tricky to get all the family members in the same place at the same time. Especially when small toddlers and babies are involved. Not to mention coordinating outfits! I know — I have a big family myself! It often seems like when my family gets together, all we have is a fast and furious 48 hours. Then, in the blink of an eye, everyone is already traveling back home. It can feel a bit wild and daunting to try to take photos together! But just think of how much changes from year to year! Babies grow up and more are added to the family. It might not be perfect, but it’s always worth the efforts!

Plus, this Thomas Family was as close to perfect as I think any extended family photos can get! I was so happy to be able to take pictures for them! They hadn’t been all together for quite some time and it was fun getting to see how they all interact. I could just see how much fun the little cousins had together!

One thing I love about extended family photos is not just the big group shot with everyone looking and smiling. Though I do love that one! But it’s also so fun to get a few minutes with each individual couple and family as well! I love being playful after getting those look-at-the-camera-and-smile photos. Additionally, I also love to capture different relationships shared between the families. Like, all the girls and all the boys. Or Dad with his daughters. Just the siblings! Or even auntie with all the nieces and nephews. It helps to really tell the story of all the intricate details of a family and that feels so special to me.