Family Photos with Grandparents

Sunday September 8, 2024 is Grandparent's Day. I would give up quite a bit to have a few more hours with my grandparents. My maternal grandma was one of my very favorite people on the planet and when she died four years ago, I took it hard. I'm thankful for the few photos I do have of her, but a few snapshots over my 30+ years just isn't enough. I wish I had more family photos with my grandparents. Learn from my mistakes and schedule a session for your folks and your children. The images plus the memories created during the session will forever be ingrained in your little peoples' brains.

Donna was able to schedule a session for her, her husband Jim, and their three grandchildren in April. One of their granddaughters lives abroad, so were operating on a very tight schedule with not a lot of wiggle room for rain delays. Luckily, the Iowa weather cooperated, and we had the most beautiful sunset garden session. I always like to hash out the details of the session ahead of time, including the names and ages of all participants. I feel like that really helps the young kids become familiar with me from the beginning of the session, when I greet them by their name. For extended family sessions, I like getting a rundown of what group shots we need to take. For Donna and Jim, we were able to get the entire group, grandparents alone, cousins together, and some candid ones of grandparents with their grandchildren.

When choosing the location. Donna wanted a picturesque setting as she enjoys flowers, but she was worried about her four-year-old grandson running off and not listening. I knew of the perfect place! There's a magical garden space in the heart of Urbandale that is small and intimate and doesn't allow for little ones to run away. Having photographed there before, I knew how the light hit just perfectly for golden hour.

When photographing toddlers and preschoolers, I know how important quick sessions and breaks are. It's definitely a balancing act between allowing the children to explore to capture those candid shots, while also getting them to look at the camera for the more poses images. Making the session into a game and giving the little ones a job, has always been my best tool for capturing those genuine moments. Smelling the flowers, presenting a flower to a family member, and lots of snuggles, tickles, and cuddles.

I was so proud of Donna, Jim, and the three grandchildren for following direction and getting all of the necessary shots in half an hour. I love how they had a night out with the grandkids, and I suggested heading over to Baskin Robbins afterwards for a reward for good behavior!