Extended Family Portraits in Rural Charleston

Living in a tourist area like Charleston, SC, you tend to get a lot of requests for extended family portraits. If you are going to meet up with family somewhere – Charleston is a pretty place to do so. There is lots to do for people of all ages (and families with little kids). I think the enforced social distancing has made families appreciate their time with one another even more. This summer I have photographed more extended families than usual, and they have really enjoyed each other’s presence.

This particular family consists of a long-time client’s family, her lovely mother, and her brother’s family. They don’t get together often, and the cousins (how cute are they?!) definitely have fun together.

Before you scroll down to see the photos, I want to point out how on point their wardrobe choices were! My client mentioned she likes to take existing pieces (some favorites) and mix them with some new pieces to come up with something that looks terrific and is within her budget. The colors she chose really come together well. Most boys and men have henleys in neutral colors and denim shirts and khakis. That leaves you able to mix in some color for the women and girls. The light, muted color palette of blue, green, and pink gives a very soft look. Mixed with neutrals, no one’s outfit overpowers anyone else.  That is really important.

I often tell people that matching one another completely – the old fad of everyone in jeans and white button-ups, for example – actually draws attention to the repetitive elements (the outfits), rather than letting the viewer’s eye wander the frame from face to face.

If you ever have a styling question, don’t hesitate to ask me. I am always available to give my opinion on colors or styles. I also offer all of my clients access to Style and Select which makes choosing everyone’s outfits even simpler.

But for now, enjoy these gorgeous photos.