There’s something so special about extended family sessions—generations coming together, laughter echoing through the trees, and the stories shared along the way. I had the honor of photographing the Jensen family on their beautiful property tucked away in the hills of Clifton, Idaho. Getting to the meadow was an adventure in itself—ATVs winding through the trails, kids laughing, and dust kicking up as we made our way to the most breathtaking spot.

This location couldn’t have been more perfect. Surrounded by wild grasses and tall trees, it felt like the kind of place where memories are made and traditions are kept alive. What made this session so meaningful wasn’t just the beauty of the location—it was the legacy of the Jensen family. Children, grandchildren, and great-grandchildren all gathered in one place. It’s not every day you get to witness that kind of generational love.

Extended family sessions can feel overwhelming to plan, but they’re often more efficient than people expect. This session, for example, took just under an hour. Every individual family had time for photos, couples got their moment, the grandkids each had headshots, and of course, we captured those timeless full group shots that will be treasured for years.

If your family is getting together this year—whether for a holiday, reunion, or just a Sunday dinner—don’t forget to plan a family photo. It’s always worth the effort. The photos may last forever, but so do the stories they tell.