Sunset views, red rocks, and lots of love in Phoenix!
When I say I love extended family sessions, I really mean it! There’s just something so special about capturing multiple generations, cousins giggling together, and grandparents surrounded by the people they love most.
This beautiful session at Hole in the Rock in Papago Park brought all that and more — and the desert views? Absolutely stunning.
Whether you’re visiting Arizona with family or just want to capture your crew all in one place, this is the kind of location that’s perfect for bringing everyone together.
📍 Why Hole in the Rock Is Great for Extended Family Photos
As a Phoenix family photographer, I always help guide my clients to the best spots — and Hole in the Rock is a favorite for a few big reasons:
- Room to spread out: With a large group, we need space! The open desert area near Hole in the Rock gives plenty of room for big group shots and little breakout family portraits.
- Stunning red rock backdrop: The giant sandstone formation makes for a bold, dramatic background that screams “Arizona!”
- Beautiful light: Especially at golden hour, the warm tones of the desert rocks bounce back beautiful light that flatters everyone.
- Easy access: If you’re worried about older family members or littles who can’t hike far—don’t stress! This spot is super accessible with minimal walking needed to get to gorgeous views.
Check out other top photo locations in Phoenix if you’re still deciding what desert vibe works for your group!
👨👩👧👦 Extended Family Sessions: More Than Just a Picture
What makes sessions like this one so special is that we’re not just snapping a group photo — we’re telling your family’s story.
During this shoot, we took time for:
- The big group photo (of course!)
- Individual families
- Just the cousins
- Grandparents with grandkids
- Siblings who haven’t had a photo together in years
If you’ve got a large group, don’t worry — I help organize everything so it doesn’t feel overwhelming. I guide everyone into natural, relaxed poses so it feels more like fun and less like a checklist.
And yes, we take time for the silly stuff too 😉 That’s when the real smiles come out!
🌅 The Magic of Golden Hour at Papago Park
This session was scheduled just before sunset — the best time for photos here in the desert! The sunlight dips right behind the rocks, casting a warm golden glow across the red sandstone and desert brush.
Golden hour is especially perfect for extended family sessions because:
- The lighting is soft and flattering (aka no harsh shadows!)
- Kids are usually still in a good mood before it gets too late
- It gives us that dreamy, desert glow you’ll love in your gallery
Curious why it’s the best time for photos in general? Read more in this post about golden hour magic.
🧺 Tips for Your Own Extended Family Session
Planning a session with your extended family? Here’s what I recommend bringing:
- Coordinated outfits, not matching: Think coordinating colors that go well with the warm desert tones — soft neutrals, muted blues, and earth tones always look great. Here’s more on what to wear.
- Water and snacks for the kids (and maybe the adults too!)
- Blanket or sitting prop if you want a few relaxed seated shots
- A good attitude and lots of love 💛 Because the most important part of this session is simply being together!
❤️ Real Moments, Real Memories
During this session, some of my favorite moments weren’t the posed shots — they were the little moments in between: cousins helping each other climb rocks, a grandparent’s smile when all their grandkids hugged them at once, a sibling throwing an arm around another and laughing like it was 1997 again.
This is why I do what I do. I’m not just taking your photo — I’m helping you create memories that you’ll look back on forever.
If you’re thinking of scheduling your own extended family session in Phoenix, check out my pricing here and let’s chat about what would make your family’s shoot special.
More Posts You Might Love:
- Best Parks in Phoenix for a Family Picnic (and Pictures!)
- What to Wear for Your Family Photo Session
- Featured Session: Desert Foothills Park – Senior Cousins
