One of the greatest joys as a photographer is building long-term relationships with my wonderful clients. I first met Sammy when I photographed her wedding, capturing the heartfelt vows and joyful celebrations. Later, I had the honor of documenting her maternity session as Sammy eagerly awaited the arrival of her sweet daughter, Andie. So, when Sammy reached out about booking a Mother’s Day photo session to celebrate her mom, I was beyond excited to reconnect and continue telling their family’s beautiful story.

A Mother’s Day Gift for the Generations

Sammy’s thoughtful gift idea was to bring together three generations of incredible women, creating memories that would last a lifetime. She wanted a natural, happy, and loving atmosphere, highlighting the genuine connections between her mom, herself, her sister, and their precious little girls, Jude and newborn baby Andie. These milestones—motherhood, sisterhood, and becoming grandparents—deserve thoughtful documentation. A multigenerational Mother’s Day photo shoot celebrates more than just one moment; it honors your family’s entire journey.

Different Vibes, Same Love: Studio vs Outdoor Photoshoots

We planned the session carefully to achieve two distinct looks: first in my Chicago photography studio, then outdoors at the beautiful West Ridge Nature Preserve. Combining indoor and outdoor locations is something I always recommend to my families—it delivers variety in your final gallery and creates more dynamic storytelling. Let me share a bit of what made each setting special, along with helpful tips you can use for your own family session.

Studio Sessions in Chicago

Inside the studio, we focused on clean, polished compositions. Simple backgrounds kept all attention on the lovely moments unfolding between grandmother, daughters, and granddaughters. With fewer distractions, studio setups create a timeless feel. They highlight relationships so sincerely and honestly. The interactions were naturally intimate and authentic, as the women relaxed and enjoyed their time together.

If you’re considering a studio session, here’s a tip: wear neutral, complementary colors. Doing so allows your sincere expressions and meaningful connections to shine. I always suggest that my clients coordinate rather than match exactly. Choosing softer tones—creams, grays, pastels—ensures a cohesive look without pulling attention from faces and emotions. I love how all three lovely ladies wore a similar shade of cream, but each dress style complemented their individual personalities. Perfect choices, ladies!

Outdoor Sessions at West Nature Preserve

After capturing thoughtful portraits in the studio, we ventured to the lush greenery of West Ridge Nature Preserve. Fresh air, sprawling shade trees, and filtered sunlight brought out spontaneous expressions and carefree interactions. Outdoor sessions lend themselves beautifully to candid moments, laughter, and playfulness—perfect for documenting young children exploring the outdoors. Jude and baby Andie were adorable as they experienced the open space, guided by their moms and grandmother.

For your outdoor session, my best advice is to embrace flexibility. With young children, especially babies, we work around their moods and schedules. Allowing children to lead the session with curiosity and energy creates photo opportunities that represent their personalities. And don’t worry about children looking at the camera. Some of the most heartfelt images come from authentic interaction, not posed smiles. Those will happen naturally, and I’ll be ready with camera in hand when they do!

The combination of indoor and outdoor settings provided a wonderful balance for Sammy’s family. Together, we captured a range of photographs: polished portraits that look lovely framed on their walls and spontaneous, playful shots perfect for albums and sharing online. Mixing locations is ideal for showcasing different aspects of your family’s unique personality and loving bonds.

Multigenerational Family Photos that Tell Your Story

Sessions involving multiple generations hold an extra special place in my heart. It’s incredible witnessing the bonds between parents, children, and grandparents and how families grow and transform over the years. These sessions are a creative reminder of the strength and warmth cultivated through a lifetime of shared experiences.

When planning your own multigenerational family session, let me know about any special family traditions, heirlooms, or sentimental details you’d like to include. These unique elements help me create personalized photographs full of significance and genuine emotion.

Another tip is to approach the session as an experience rather than a formal photoshoot. By relaxing and interacting naturally with each other, you’ll show genuine joy and connection that shines through in every image. The goal is always to capture your real relationships and true reactions, not stiff poses or forced smiles. I’ll guide you throughout the process so you can focus on and enjoy what matters most—your sweet family.

I’m so grateful Sammy chose to celebrate Mother’s Day by giving her mom and sister memories like these. Flowers fade, but these photos and priceless memories never will. It’s one of the best gifts you can give yourselves!

As a fine art wedding photographer, my passion is capturing meaningful life milestones through an artistic lens. Whether it’s weddings, engagements, maternity, or family sessions, my approach remains consistent: timeless, authentic, and joyful imagery that tells your unique story.

The Best Gift You Can Give Your Family—And Yourself!

If you’ve never considered investing in professional multigenerational photographs before or a Mother’s Day photo session, I hope Sammy’s thoughtful gift inspires you. Capturing your family across generations creates images you’ll cherish deeply. These sessions are opportunities to pause, reflect, and celebrate how far you’ve come—and the beautiful growth still ahead!

Want to tell your family’s story through meaningful images? I’d love to hear from you and start creating lasting memories together.

 

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