Hey there! So, you’re thinking about rounding up the entire clan—grandparents, parents, kids, maybe even a few cousins—for a generational photography session? First off, let me just say, what a brilliant idea! Capturing these moments is like hitting the pause button on life, giving you a beautiful snapshot of your family’s legacy. And what better place to do it than at Caulfield Park?

What is an Extended Family Session?

An extended family session is a beautiful opportunity to gather all the branches of your family tree—grandparents, parents, aunts, uncles, cousins, and of course, the little ones—for a photo session that captures the essence of your family’s legacy. It’s not just about getting everyone together for a picture; it’s about celebrating the connections, the stories, and the shared memories that make your family unique.

3 Great Reasons to Book an Extended Family Session (Especially When the Kids are Little)

Preserving Family History: As time goes on, life gets busier, and opportunities to gather everyone become rarer. Capturing these moments when the kids are little and the family is all together allows you to document your family’s story. These photos will become treasured heirlooms that you can pass down through generations, reminding everyone where they came from and the love that binds them.
Celebrating Generational Bonds: There’s something truly special about seeing different generations interact—grandparents holding their grandkids, siblings sharing a laugh, cousins playing together. These are the moments that showcase the bonds that cross generations. When your children grow up, they’ll cherish these photos as a tangible connection to their roots, remembering the love and joy they shared with family members who might no longer be around.
Capturing the Fleeting Moments: Let’s face it, kids grow up way too fast! One moment they’re toddling around, and the next, they’re off to school. An extended family session captures them at this sweet, innocent stage, surrounded by the people who love them most. These photos freeze time, allowing you to hold onto these precious moments and revisit them long after the kids have outgrown their childhood shoes.

Why Caulfield Park?

Nestled in the heart of Melbourne, Caulfield Park is a gem that combines the best of nature with a touch of urban charm. It’s like a little slice of tranquility amidst the city hustle. The park's spacious lawns, vibrant gardens, and picturesque lake make it an ideal backdrop for family photos. Plus, it’s got plenty of spots where the kids can burn off some energy before the camera clicks start!

Picture-Perfect Spots

When it comes to finding the perfect spot within the park, you’re spoiled for choice. The grand old trees, blooming flower beds, and the iconic rotunda all scream “family photo album material.”

The Lake: If you’re after that serene, timeless look, gather the family near the lake. The reflections and the soft, natural light here can give your photos a dreamy quality. Just imagine the grandparents holding hands, with their grandkids skipping stones nearby—talk about a moment to cherish!
The Rose Garden: For a pop of color and a bit of romance (yes, even in family photos!), the rose garden is your go-to. The bursts of red, pink, and white roses create a lively and vibrant atmosphere. This is where you can catch those candid moments—the kids playing hide and seek among the blooms or the entire family laughing over an inside joke.
The Rotunda: This spot adds a touch of elegance to your photos. The rotunda’s classic structure gives a nod to tradition, making it a fitting choice for capturing the essence of multiple generations. Plus, it’s covered, so if the weather’s being unpredictable, you’ve got a stylish Plan B.

Tips for the Best Shots

Now, I know getting everyone to smile at the same time is like herding cats, but here are a few tips to help:

Coordinate, Don’t Match: Gone are the days of everyone wearing the same white shirt and jeans. Instead, opt for a color palette that complements the surroundings—think earth tones or soft pastels that blend with the park’s natural beauty.
Timing is Everything: Early mornings or late afternoons are golden (literally!). The light is soft, flattering, and perfect for capturing those heartwarming family moments. Plus, the park is usually quieter during these times, so you’ll have the place (almost) to yourselves.
Make It Fun: Encourage the kids (and the adults!) to play around, tell jokes, and just be themselves. Some of the best photos are the ones where everyone is just enjoying the moment—think less “posed” and more “living in the moment.”
Bring a Prop or Two: Whether it’s a family heirloom, a blanket for everyone to sit on, or even a vintage picnic basket, props can add a personal touch to your photos and help tell your family’s story.

Wrangling the Generations

We all know that organizing an extended family can be...well, let’s call it “challenging.” But trust me, it’s worth it. Here’s a little trick—start with the big group shots while everyone’s fresh, then gradually break it down into smaller groups. This way, the grandparents can take a breather while the kids and their parents snap a few more pics.

And hey, why not use this time to ask your family about their favorite memories in the park? Maybe Grandma used to bring your parents here when they were kids, or maybe it’s where your little ones learned to ride their bikes. These stories add an extra layer of meaning to your photos.

Practical Info for a Smooth Day

Parking: There’s plenty of parking around the park, but on weekends, it can get busy, so arrive a bit early to snag a good spot.
Facilities: Caulfield Park has toilets and drinking fountains scattered around, so you’re covered for those “I need a break!” moments.
Weather Watch: Melbourne’s weather can be a bit of a wild card, so keep an eye on the forecast and have a backup plan, just in case.

Before You Go...

Let me ask you—what’s the one thing you want to remember about your family right now? Is it the way your little ones still hold your hand? Or maybe it’s the way your parents look at their grandkids with pure love in their eyes? Whatever it is, let that be the focus of your photos. And most importantly, have fun with it. After all, these aren’t just photos—they’re memories in the making.

So, gather up your family, head to Caulfield Park, and let’s create something beautiful together. Trust me, you’ll be glad you did. And remember, an extended family session is more than just pictures—it’s an investment in your family’s story, one that you’ll cherish for generations to come.