Extended Family Photoshoots in the Peak District

Why Extended Family Photoshoots Matter

There’s something really special about getting the whole family together.

Whether it’s for a milestone birthday, a weekend away in the Peak District, grandparents visiting from afar, or simply having everyone in the same place for once, extended family photoshoots are such a meaningful way to capture this season of life.

Over the years I’ve photographed large family gatherings across Derbyshire and the Peak District. From cosy weekends at The Gatehouse to countryside stays near Longshaw Estate, celebrations around Chatsworth House, and family holidays near Hope Valley (The Poachers Arms).

These sessions are never about standing stiffly in a line smiling at the camera for an hour. I want your photos to feel relaxed, natural, and genuinely reflective of your family. The way the kids cling to grandparents, cousins disappearing off together, parents laughing at the chaos, and all those little interactions that end up meaning the most later on.

Why Families Book Extended Family Photoshoots

A lot of the families who enquire with me are booking for a particular reason:

• A “big birthday” present for grandparents
• A multi-generation family holiday in the Peak District
• An anniversary celebration
• Relatives visiting from overseas
• A rare opportunity where everyone is together

Often these gatherings have been planned for months, and photographs become part of preserving the memory of the trip itself. It takes the pressure off you to try and capture you all together, rather than just soaking up the time together.

What Happens During a Large Family Photoshoot?

One thing people often worry about is whether a big group session will feel rushed or awkward.

My approach is very relaxed and lightly guided. We’ll usually start with a few full group photographs while everyone’s attention is still together, then move into smaller combinations naturally as we go. Whilst this is happening, natural moments unfold and I make sure to capture those just as much.

One thing that’s really important to me is making sure every immediate family, couple, or sibling group gets their own mini session within the shoot. That means everyone comes away with a mix of:

• Full extended family photos
• Grandparents with grandchildren
• Individual family portraits
• Sibling photos
• Couples photos
• Natural candid moments

It gives you a much bigger variety of images and makes the session feel more personal for everyone involved.

The Best Locations for Extended Family Photos in the Peak District

Extended family sessions work beautifully both outdoors and at holiday accommodation.
Some popular options include:

• Holiday cottages and Airbnbs
• Countryside walks
• Peak District viewpoints
• Family gatherings at pubs or restaurants

I’ve photographed families staying across Derbyshire and the Peak District, including near Chatsworth House and around the beautiful landscapes of the Longshaw Estate. Sometimes families have been staying nearby, or used the Peak District as a middle location for everyone to travel to. If this is the case, I can help suggest a location with a cafe & toilet!

The best location is usually somewhere meaningful to your family and somewhere children (and dogs) can relax and explore naturally.

What to Wear for a Big Family Photoshoot

You absolutely don’t need everyone dressed identically. (I’m picturing the photoshoot on Modern Family when everyone trashed their white outfit!)

The best family photos tend to happen when outfits feel comfortable and coordinated rather than overly matching. Neutral, earthy tones and soft colours work beautifully in the Peak District landscape, especially during autumn and spring.

FAQs About Extended Family Photoshoots

There’s no limit! I regularly photograph larger family groups, including multi-generation sessions with grandparents, cousins, siblings, and multiple households together.

Yes — many of my extended family sessions take place at holiday cottages, Airbnbs, or accommodation across the Peak District and Derbyshire.

Most sessions last between 1–2 hours depending on group size, location, and how many smaller family combinations you’d like included.

Definitely. Alongside the larger group photographs, I always make time for mini sessions with each immediate family, couple, or sibling group so everyone has their own set of portraits too.

Honestly, that’s completely normal. My sessions are designed to feel relaxed and flexible, with plenty of movement and space for kids to be themselves.

If my schedule allows it, I’m more than happy to travel. I charge extra for travel outside of Derbyshire. Alternatively I can recommend other photographers in that area.

Extended Family Photoshoot Prices

Extended family photoshoots are £350 for up to 6 people, with additional family members charged at £15 per person after that.

These sessions include:
• Relaxed full family photography
• Smaller mini sessions for each immediate family/couple
• Natural candid moments
• Help choosing the best location

And of course, dogs are always welcome too — some of my favourite family sessions have included muddy paws, excitable spaniels, and family walks through the Peak District with everyone together.

I also offer a returning client discount for families I’ve photographed before — whether that’s weddings, family sessions, or previous extended family shoots.

If you’re planning a family gathering, birthday celebration, or Peak District holiday and would like to chat through options, feel free to get in touch via the form below.