Moab gives you jaw-dropping backdrops perfect for every occasion. From iconic proposal sessions to one-of-a-kind senior pictures, this town is really there for it all. So, when you are looking for a spot for your family photos, why wouldn’t it be at the top of your list? As a Moab extended family photographer, I love working with my clients to plan sessions they will cherish forever. Here is everything you need to know about preparing for extended family photos in Moab.
How to Prep for Your Extended Family Photos in Moab
Choose a Location
Once you decide you want to do your extended family photos, it’s time to narrow down your Moab options! If you aren’t really digging the idea of being out in the desert throughout the heat, lived-in family houses are always great (grandparents’ homes are always my favorite!). If you do prefer to schedule an adventure with your family, be sure it is an accessible spot for the whole crew. The National Parks, such as Arches and Canyonlands, are gorgeous, but accessible spots tend to get crowded. You can always opt for less popular spots like Dead Horse State Park to get similar views with less hassle.
Coordinate Outfits
For your outfits, you want to match without laying it on too heavily. Instead of doing monochrome palettes for extended family photos, choose a color scheme that matches Moab. While you can coordinate it around the seasons, autumn colors always look exceptional when paired with the Moab landscape. Don’t get too wild with patterns so you don’t all clash. One or two patterns are okay, but anything over that is a migraine. And when in doubt, don’t be afraid to use Pinterest!
Create a Must-Have Shot List
Before your session, look at extended family photoshoots and decide what poses you like the most. Think about how you want to handle family members. Do you want the grandparents with all the grandkids? Individual family shots? Cousin pictures? Sibling portraits? If you give your list to your photographer (ahem) ahead of time, they can be sure you get everything you want out of your session.
Set Expectations With Family Members
When you are dealing with this many people throughout your session, it’s important that you prep them ahead of time, or else it’s just plain chaos. If you have younger kids, sit them down and explain that you are meeting a friend to take some pictures with all their favorite people. It also doesn’t hurt to tell your photographer who is related to whom, the terms relatives go by, etc. Oh, and be sure to leave the family drama for the next uncomfortable holiday. This is a time for smiles, darn it!
Pack Essentials for the Kids
Kids tend to get really antsy throughout extended family photos, so a little preparation will go a long way for Moab sessions. Pack snacks that won’t spill, wet wipes to clean hands, stain-free drinks, and plenty of activities (trust me, screen time doesn’t matter during pics). If they have a comfort lovey, bring it along!
Go With the Flow, Trust Your Photographer, and Have Fun!
More than anything else, have fun! As photographers, we have the best time when our clients trust our expertise. We know how to figure out poses that will feel natural, how to position people for the best layout, and how to become comedians that will bring out genuine smiles. Just sit back, relax, and enjoy this time with your people!
I Hope This Helps You Feel Prepared And Confident For Your Next Extended Family Photos in Moab
I really hope this guide helps you as you prepare for your extended family photos in Moab! If you still need a person to take those pictures, however, just let me know! As a Moab extended family photographer, I love working with my clients to plan sessions they will treasure for years to come. If you think I might just be the one to document your wild crew, send me a message today so we can chat!
