When was the last time your entire family was photographed together — not just at a wedding or holiday, but in a moment where everyone was relaxed, happy, and connected?
An extended family session is more than a photo shoot — it’s a chance to bring generations together. At Gilmore Studios, we’ve spent over two decades photographing families in Newport Beach, California, helping them create portraits that feel as meaningful as the memories they represent.
Why This Session Is Important
1. Your Family Legacy Deserves to Be Documented
As families grow, schedules fill up, and kids move away, it becomes harder to get everyone in one place. An extended family portrait preserves your family’s story — grandparents, parents, children, and grandchildren — all together in one frame.
2. Photos Become Heirlooms
These portraits will hang in homes for years, passed down to the next generation as reminders of love, connection, and legacy.
3. Stress-Free Group Portraits
Large groups can feel overwhelming to coordinate, but with the right photographer, it becomes effortless. We handle everything from posing to timing so everyone looks their best — even the toddlers and the uncles who “don’t like photos.”
What Makes Gilmore Studios Different
- Over 20 years of experience photographing families across Orange County, from Newport Beach to Irvine and Laguna.
- Expert direction for large groups — we make it fun, organized, and relaxed.
- Polished editing that maintains natural skin tones and true-to-life color.
- Family-first approach — we understand how meaningful these sessions are for parents and grandparents alike.
- Professional education and mentorship — through Photographers Roadmap, we teach photographers how to build successful, heart-centered businesses like ours.
Why Choose Gilmore Studios for Extended Family Sessions
- We specialize in multi-generational portraits that feel both polished and personal.
- Every session includes a mix of group shots, smaller family sets, and candid interactions.
- We guide you through every step — from choosing the right location to planning wardrobe colors that work together.
- Sessions are fully customized — whether your family wants a sunset beach session in Newport or a relaxed park atmosphere.
What to Wear + Styling Tips for Extended Family Sessions
Coordinating large families doesn’t mean matching — it means blending colors and textures.
Outfit Coordination
- Pick 3–4 colors that complement each other and assign everyone to stay within that palette (think beige, soft blues, white, and sage).
- Avoid loud prints, stripes, or logos — they distract from your faces.
- For beach sessions, barefoot or sandals keep things relaxed and cohesive.
Recommended Color Palettes
- Neutral Coastal: white, cream, soft gray, light blue, khaki
- Classic Family: navy, tan, white, and blush
- Earthy Tones: olive, beige, denim, ivory
Where to Shop for Outfits
- J.Crew – coordinating family looks with timeless style
- Nordstrom – elevated neutrals for large family sessions
- Old Navy – affordable coordinating outfits for kids and adults
- Anthropologie – soft, textured dresses that photograph beautifully
- Madewell – relaxed, modern options for a laid-back California style
Best Locations in Newport Beach for Extended Family Portraits
1. Marina Park
Perfect for large families — plenty of open space, clean sand, and sunset light.
Visit Marina Park
2. Balboa Pier
Iconic, nostalgic, and great for walking shots with the pier in the background.
Balboa Pier Information
3. Little Corona del Mar Beach
Tucked-away coves with stunning rock formations, perfect for coastal portraits.
Explore Corona del Mar
4. Lido Marina Village
A beautiful, modern area for family portraits with sailboats and stylish backdrops.
Discover Lido Marina Village
Where to Eat After Your Portrait Session
Make a day of it — here are some nearby spots for celebrating after your session:
- Bear Flag Fish Co. – fresh seafood and relaxed harbor views.
- Malibu Farm Newport Beach – family-friendly dining with ocean views.
- The Cannery – a local favorite for seafood and history.
- Wilma’s Patio – great for brunch after a morning session.
- Bluewater Grill – perfect for extended family dinners after photos.
Related Links
- Gilmore Studios – Official Website
- Family Beach Portraits – Gilmore Studios
- Photographers Roadmap
- Visit Newport Beach Official Site
Final Thoughts
Extended family portraits aren’t just about photos — they’re about preserving your story. The laughter, the connections, the generations all gathered in one place.
At Gilmore Studios, we help families capture those rare moments when everyone is together — beautifully, authentically, and without stress.
Ready to plan your extended family session in Newport Beach, California?
Visit Gilmore Studios to book your next session, and check out Photographers Roadmap for behind-the-scenes insights into how we make sessions successful.
