Time moves quickly. One moment, you're rocking your baby to sleep, and the next, you're watching that same baby braid flowers into Grandma's hair while I quietly snap a photo that somehow says everything. That's the kind of magic I witness during generational photo sessions—and it never gets old. These sessions are about more than group portraits. They're about belonging, about honoring our roots, and about giving future generations a window into where they come from.

Black and white photo of grandmother touching baby.

As a Kansas City family photographer, I've worked with families across all stages of life—from new parents to great-grandparents—and there's something uniquely meaningful about gathering everyone in one frame. Whether you're in Liberty, Overland Park, or out in Weston or Leawood, I'll help you plan a session that honors your family's story.

What Is a Legacy Photo Session?

A legacy or generational photo session brings together multiple generations of a family in one meaningful, memory-filled session. Typically, this includes grandparents, parents, children, and often grandchildren or great-grandchildren. These can be intimate gatherings or big reunions—and either way, they tell a story only your family can tell.

You might be celebrating a milestone birthday, an anniversary, or just finally coordinating a time when everyone is in town. Whatever the reason, these sessions are some of the most memorable I get to document. It's not just about who's in the photo—it's about the relationships, laughter, wrinkles, hugs, and inside jokes that come with time.

Why Generational Photos Matter

Your Family's Living History

Every person carries a piece of your family's story. When I photograph multiple generations together, I'm capturing a visual map of that history—a snapshot of the people who've shaped your life. And it's not just about smiles and posed portraits. It's about the way Grandpa always rests his hand on your shoulder. Or how the littlest cousin runs to sit next to her big brother every time you gather for a photo.

These moments aren't staged—they're real. And when your grandkids look at these photos someday, they'll recognize those relationships for what they were: full of love, pride, and connection.

Preserving Connection for Future Generations

One of the most poignant aspects of these sessions is their permanence. Photographs freeze time. They become tangible reminders of the people who raised us, the traditions we carry, and the way our family has grown and changed. Especially as we lose loved ones, these portraits take on even greater significance.

Imagine your children showing your family portrait to their kids, pointing out faces, and telling stories. "This was taken the last time we were all together." "That's Grandma—she loved birds and always had peppermint in her purse." These are the threads that stitch a family together.

More Than a Trend—They're Heirlooms

We live in a world of throwaway images—photos that live briefly on our phones before disappearing. But generational portraits are meant to last. These are the kinds of photos you frame, print, and treasure for generations to come. They're the kind of art that lives on your walls, in your albums, and eventually, in the homes of your children and grandchildren.

When you book a legacy session with me, you're not just investing in an afternoon—you're investing in your family's visual story.

What to Expect During a Generational Photo Session

Thoughtful Planning from the Start

These sessions require a little more coordination than a typical portrait session—but don't worry, I'll walk you through it. From selecting the ideal location to providing wardrobe guidance, I'll help make the process straightforward and stress-free.

We'll discuss:

The size of your group
Any accessibility needs for older family members
Best time of day for light and comfort
Outfit coordination
Which groupings and combinations matter most to you

I create a loose shot list that ensures we capture the big group, smaller family units, and any special pairings—like all the grandkids with their grandparents or a candid of your parents laughing together.

Gentle Direction, Real Emotion

My photography style is documentary with a touch of gentle direction. I'll guide you into natural groupings, but I also leave space for real emotion and connection to shine through.

There are no contrived poses or forced smiles to find here. What you will find are toddlers tugging at Grandpa's hand, cousins giggling together, and the kind of joy that just can't be scripted.

Comfort for Everyone

I know that not everyone loves the camera. That's okay. I've worked with plenty of reluctant participants (often it's Dad or Grandpa!) who leave the session saying, "That was actually kind of fun." Sessions move at a relaxed pace and are always respectful of everyone's time and energy. I come from a big family - between my mom, my siblings and their families and my own husband and kiddos, my immediate family numbers 25 now! I’m also a wedding photographer and have handled large family photography for many years, so these big, noisy family sessions don’t intimidate me one bit. I’m comfortable rolling with the flow and documenting the ride along the way, but I’ll provide the structure needed to accomplish your session goals with ease.

The Best Locations for Generational Photos in Kansas City

There's no shortage of beautiful, meaningful locations to choose from around Kansas City. Some of my favorites include:

Loose Park: Gorgeous blooms in spring, colorful leaves in fall, and flat walking paths that are perfect for older family members.
Weston Bend State Park: Ideal in the fall. Quiet trails, rich foliage, and stunning overlooks.
Your Family Home: Sometimes, the most meaningful location is where your family spends the most time together. The front porch, the backyard swing, or even gathered in the living room.
The Nelson-Atkins or Liberty Memorial: Classic Kansas City icons that provide a timeless backdrop.
Watkins Mill State Park: Unforgettable—especially golden hour sessions.

We'll choose a location that makes sense for your family, whether that's a park, a backyard barbecue, or your grandparents' front stoop.

What to Wear for a Generational Photo Session

A wardrobe is a big part of how your photos feel—and I'm here to help with that, too. The key? Coordinating without being overly matchy. I always suggest:

Sticking to a soft, cohesive color palette (neutrals, earth tones, or muted hues photograph beautifully)
Avoiding busy patterns, neon colors, or large logos
Letting each family unit coordinate within themselves while blending with the whole group
Adding texture through layers, sweaters, scarves, or subtle prints

Need help? I offer a free wardrobe consultation for every family I photograph.

The Importance of Printing Your Photos

These Photos Are Meant to Be Seen

Digital files are great for sharing online—but the real magic happens when you hold your memories in your hands. Framed prints, photo books, wall galleries—this is where your family's story comes alive.

Imagine your grandchildren, wide-eyed with wonder, pouring through an heirloom album and spying a picture of you, young and laughing beside your grandmother. That's the kind of legacy we're building.

I'll Help You Preserve Them Beautifully

I offer fine art prints, framed portraits, heirloom albums, and custom-designed wall galleries—so you don't have to figure it all out on your own. Whether you want something small and timeless or a full-feature wall in your home, I'll help you create it.

When to Book Your Generational Photo Session

While big life moments, like milestone birthdays and anniversaries, are great times to schedule, the truth is that any time you can gather your people is the perfect time. Don't wait for the "perfect" season, weight, outfit, or weather. These moments are fleeting.

I recommend booking your Kansas City generational session at least 4–8 weeks in advance to ensure I have availability and to give us time to plan your session thoughtfully, but if you happen to find a date a little closer that works for you all, please reach out! If I am available I am happy to work you in. I do offer holiday season sessions, so if you’ll all be together around Thanksgiving or Christmas - reach out ASAP to check availability! Holiday bookings are by request only and are not available on my booking calendar.

FAQs About Generational Photography Sessions

How many people can be included?

As many as you want! I've photographed families of 5 and families of 30 or more. We'll plan accordingly and keep things flowing smoothly.

What if we need to reschedule?

Life happens! If someone is sick or the weather isn't cooperating, we'll reschedule when possible. I'm flexible and understanding.

Can we include pets?

Yes—dogs are welcome in outdoor sessions! If you're interested in including your four-legged family members, please let me know so we can plan your session accordingly.

Do you offer prints and albums?

Yes! After your session, I'll walk you through your gallery and help you select the best images for printing, framing, and preserving.

Let's Tell Your Family's Story

If this post has you thinking about your own family—your grandparents, your children, your siblings—I want to encourage you not to wait. You don't need a perfect reason or a perfect time. You just need your people and a little time together.

If you're ready to book your generational photo session in Kansas City, I'd love to help. Click here to inquire, and we'll plan something that honors your family and captures the beauty of where you've come from—and where you're going.

These moments don't last forever—but your photos can. Let's preserve them beautifully.