Four kids, one big mountain view, and the coziest buffalo plaid blanket. This fall session in a Utah foothill meadow was everything I love about large family photos. Golden grass, scrub oak glowing yellow and orange, purple-tinted mountains, and a soft, moody overcast sky that made every color feel rich and warm. If you’re planning large family photos in Utah this fall, let this family of six inspire you!

Large Family Photos: Start with Everyone Together

With a big family, I always start with the group photos while everyone is fresh and smiling. Once we have that wall-worthy shot of all six, the pressure is off and we get to play. A walk through the tall grass, hand in hand, is one of my favorite ways to get natural smiles from everyone at once.

Play Time with the Plaid Blanket

A blanket is my secret weapon for families with lots of kids. Dad held it up like a giant tent, and the kids ran and laughed underneath it. Then everyone piled on for an overhead shot full of giggles. These are the moments that feel exactly like your family, not like a stiff pose.

Little Groupings Within the Big Family

In large family sessions, I love breaking into smaller groups. Mom with her girls, the brothers arm in arm, the sisters cuddled up together. These photos show the special relationships inside your family, and they’re so meaningful to have as the kids grow up.

And of course, every child gets a moment of their own. This little guy’s smile in his plaid flannel had me grinning behind the camera.

Tips and Outfit Ideas for Large Family Photos in Utah

This family nailed a neutral, earthy palette: a cream quarter-zip on Dad, a chocolate-brown cardigan on Mom, olive and tan plaid on the boys, and cream and caramel skirts and tops on the girls. A few tips for big families:

• Pick three or four colors from one palette and spread them across the family so no one matches exactly.
• Add one patterned piece, like plaid, to tie the look together (the blanket counts!).
• Bring a blanket or simple prop to keep little ones busy and give everyone a reason to laugh.
• Don’t fear an overcast day. Soft, moody light is flattering for every face in a big group.

For more palettes, see my guide on what to wear for fall family photos.

Book Your Large Family Photos in Utah

Want more fall inspiration? Check out these fall family photos in Utah’s aspens, this Utah canyon family session, and this sweet family of three session in the golden aspens. Big family or small, I’d love to be your Utah family photographer. View pricing and book your session here, and let’s get your whole crew on the calendar before the year ends!