Leah O'Connell

Charlottesville family photographer

Extended families

Charlottesville, VA and surrounding areas

My style for capturing extended families is a lot like that of my regular family sessions. We do lots of natural posing and breakdowns for each smaller grouping, cousins, grandparents, siblings, the whole bit. 

We also have fun. Keep it natural. Incorporate some fun activities like preparing a meal or opening presents or playing a game. After all, some of the best photos we cherish of our families are those that capture their spirit through the way we connect with them. 

That means, yes, grandpa can hold his martini and yes, dogs are family, too.

It probably doesn't happen a lot. It's probably big and loud and messy and hilarious and a little dramatic. But so fun.

When you all get together... it's a big deal.

Portfolio

Extended families

Hi, I'm Leah.
Family photographer, writer, educator.

I’m  one of the first to meet your newborn baby, the one who won't judge your clothes baskets and unmade beds, and the one who can capture the way your husband looks at you with a twinkle in his eye after 12 years of marriage.  My life's work is about honoring people and telling stories.

I believe art has the power to light up the world in dark places, starting at home. 

I'm a mom of 3 who loves mornings and words. I rely heavily on black coffee and a sense of humor.

image by Erica Hufnell

 I am over the moon thrilled with these! I cannot think of a more precious gift!

- Karen

We all love them SOOO MUCH!!! It definitely brought us so much closer . We were all saying how we have NEVER had that much fun before as a family…EVER! We can’t thank you enough for capturing those moments.

- Ashley

We chose a session as a Christmas gift for my parents. I was worried about just dealing with the whole family (8 adults, 4 grandkids, 1 grandmother) and having it be a non-stress event for my parents, but the experience ended up being wonderful on all accounts!

- Ben 

details

Nobody needs another harddrive filled with a million files. That's why every collection includes a print credit for you to use towards your choice gorgeous keepsakes like fine art prints and albums. 

Keepsakes with every session.

Reach out to get started

Extended family sessions mean more people, more interaction, and more opportunities to play and capture special memories.





Because of this, large groups of multiple families are required to choose between the Story and Narrative Collection options.

Pricing

There are no extra fees for number of people. Family is family at any size.