This extended family photoshoot in Glencoe brought together thirteen people from three generations, nine adults and four children, including grandparents, parents, and young kids. Everyone was travelling together and wanted photographs that felt relaxed, natural and focused on their connections rather than rushing between locations.
Glencoe is ideal for sessions like this. It offers dramatic scenery without needing to move far, which is especially helpful with a larger group.
A Multi Generation Family Session in Glencoe
Photographing a multi generation family is always about balance. Making sure grandparents are comfortable, children are engaged, and everyone feels included without it becoming overwhelming.
This family chose a spot near the famous white house close to the Devil’s Staircase. It gave us space, beautiful views and enough variety to photograph the full group as well as smaller family combinations, all within walking distance.
One Location, Many Stories
With a group of this size, the family decided to stay in one location rather than moving around Glencoe. That choice worked perfectly.
We started close to the car park, easing everyone in with simple group photos. From there, we moved gradually closer to the white house, the stream and the small bridge nearby. Using different corners of the same area allowed us to create a varied gallery without adding unnecessary walking or pressure.
Staying in one place meant we could slow down and focus on relationships rather than logistics.
Keeping a Large Group Relaxed and Connected
One of the best ways to photograph extended families is to keep things relaxed and active rather than overly posed. We kept the session moving with gentle walking, short bursts of running, natural interactions and plenty of hugging and chatting along the way.
At one point, we played a classic word-passing game known as Chinese whispers here in the UK, which helped loosen everyone up, but it was only a small part of the session. The real focus was on letting the family interact naturally with each other.
While I photographed smaller groupings, such as grandparents with grandchildren or individual family units, the rest of the family was free to enjoy the surroundings, chat among themselves, and simply be together. At one point, the kids started playing nearby, picking up long pieces of grass and turning them into imaginary swords while I focused on the grandparents.
Moments like these keep the energy light and unforced, and they allow every relationship to be photographed naturally, without anyone feeling like they are waiting their turn.
Drone Photos on the Bridge Near the White House
Towards the end of the session, we moved onto the bridge near the stream. With the family gathered together, I was able to use my drone to capture a few wider shots showing them within the Glencoe landscape.
Drone photos work especially well for larger groups, adding a sense of scale and place while still keeping the family as the focal point. It was a calm finish to the session and a lovely way to bring everyone together again.
Planning an Extended Family Photoshoot in Scotland
Extended family photoshoots in Scotland work best when they are simple and flexible. Choosing one strong location, allowing enough time, and focusing on connection rather than perfection makes the experience enjoyable for everyone.
If you are planning a large family gathering or holiday, you can find more information on how I work as a Scotland family photographer or read about sessions designed specifically for travelling families on my vacation family photographer in Scotland page.
If you are ready to plan your own extended family photoshoot in Glencoe or elsewhere in Scotland, feel free to get in touch using the form below. I would love to help you create something meaningful and relaxed for your family.
