How to Make the Most of an Extended Family Session at Ma Maison
Ma Maison is French for “My Home” and is situated on 23 acres in Dripping Springs Texas. This beautiful wedding venue is nestled on 23 acres and the architecture makes it feel like it fell out of a European Fairytale. When my client, Monica suggested this location for her extended family session, I immediately jumped at the opportunity! From the Green Cathedral to The Grove and all the scenes in between kept us curious for what was just around the corner.
Being a Family Photographer in Dripping Springs Texas means being prepared for anything and everything. Sometimes the weather changes on a dime and it definitely did on this day. We experienced a high wind warning and the gusts were 30-50mph. But sometimes the time you have in front of you is the best time to work. In this instance, we couldn’t reschedule due to the complex schedules everyone had. Before each set of images, I would say, “Hair Check!” and all the ladies would smooth their hair and we would wait for the wind to cease for a few seconds. And voila! It worked!
Dripping Springs Texas is full of young families that moved here for the great weather, great schools, and the proximity to Austin. The food in Austin is incredible and there’s literally something here for everyone. If you’re not a foodie, then maybe you’ll enjoy the Live Music or access to Ladybird Lake for paddle boarding or tooling around in an electric donut. I’ve met several grandparents that have moved here to be a part of their kids’ and grandkids’ lives. There isn’t anything better than having family nearby to help grow your families and share in old and new traditions.
1. Pre-Session Planning for a Smooth Experience
- Communication is Key: Discuss details with the main family contact before the session—group size, relationships, and special requests.
- Outfit Coordination: Provide simple guidelines for cohesive (but not overly matching) family outfits.
- Shot List Prep: Plan must-have groupings in advance (e.g., entire family, each individual family, grandparents with grandkids, cousins together, etc.).
2. Maximizing Your Time: A One-Hour Game Plan
- First 10 Minutes – Full Group Portraits
- Gather everyone for the biggest shots first while attention spans are fresh.
- Position family members strategically based on height and relationships.
- Next 20 Minutes – Breakouts with Grandparents & Cousins
- Capture grandkids with grandparents, all cousins together, and sibling groups.
- Use natural interactions to create candid moments.
- Final 30 Minutes – Individual Family Units & Special Requests
- Rotate through smaller family groups, giving each their moment.
- Take quick couple shots of parents, kids solo, and any other special combinations.
From the very beginning it was clear that Monica wanted as many group shots as we could get. So at each location we prioritized the group shots and some that was the only photo that was taken. We wanted to get to the next location for another strikingly beautiful backdrop and Ma Maison did not disappoint. I hope to get the chance to photography this family again as the kids grow up!
The kids tend to get tired of posing for photos first. So, let them explore the area while you work with other family members. It’s important that everyone stays positive during the session and nothing can ruin the vibe of a session like kids that are forced to smile. I double check that I got the shot, but keep shooting as long as the kids will let me, but once we hit their obvious limit, it’s time for a break.
3. Making the Most of Ma Maison’s Scenic Backdrops
- The Green Cathedral – Perfect for full family portraits with a stunning natural backdrop. (This was a personal favorite. I loved using this to pose my family with. )
- The Courtyard & Stone Archways – Great for small family units and candid moments.
- The Lake & Bridge – Ideal for intimate shots of grandparents or parents together. ( In this instance we had a large grass fire and there was so much smoke in the sky, I chose not to include it in their shots. Yes, it created some beautiful colors, but it made me so sad to think about over 8,000 acres near Fredericksburg burning.)
4. Capturing Natural & Candid Moments
- Encourage Play & Interaction – Have kids run toward the camera or share a group hug.
- Prompt Instead of Pose – Ask a family to walk hand in hand or share a funny memory.
- Use Movement – Get natural expressions with walking shots, piggyback rides, or twirls.
I also talk to my families and learn more about their relationships to each other. Asking them to laugh at my ridiculous laugh really lets them loosen up and realize that I’m on their team and I’m not afraid to make an absolute fool of myself for their benefit. After the first 15 minutes, everyones’ nerves are all gone and we’re just having a great time.
5. Wrapping Up & Delivering a Memorable Gallery
- End with Fun & Personality – A silly group photo can make for a great final shot.
- Fast Turnaround – Prioritize editing the gallery within a week of the photoshoot.
- Variety in the Final Gallery – Deliver a mix of posed and candid shots to tell the full family story.
As a Dripping Springs Family Photographer I enjoy working with local and visiting families to capture those Extended Family Sessions. Allow me to take charge of your next Family Session and just relax and enjoy the moment. We’ll spend time discussing exactly what you hope to have following the session in advance. I’ve had several families tell me just how priceless these photos have become as children grow up and grandparents age. What are you doing to record your family legacy? Contact me today and let’s plan your session! Ly***@Ly*********.com
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