Spring is a gorgeous time of year for family photos. The trees are green, it’s warmer, flowers in bloom, myriads of prom goers are at your location (scratch that last one!). Needless to say, memories were created and captured when I met up with the Beckmann Family for their extended session.
A change of plans
Mandy contacted me about the session in February to ensure all 13 of them would be present. Having captured moments for her family as well as her sister-in-law’s it was like a reunion of sorts. Initially we set for a location in St. Charles, the family needed a southern location for . We decided Bee Tree would be the perfect spot, as did hundreds of prom goers. We initially started at an outbuilding, but knowing Nims Mansion was the ideal background, we bravely faced the crowds. I was pleasantly surprised by the shots I captured. Most of the prom goers were close to the mansion which gave plenty of space to our group!
After getting those large group shots, we ventured behind the mansion to get some smaller group shots. One thing is certain – this group loves to goof around with one another. From the oldest to youngest, they loved to joke around. While capturing individual family photos and sibling shots, it was nice to chat and catch up with the family.
Candid as well as posed
Near the end of our time together, goofiness exploded. From the cousins to the dads, I captured some wacky shots. Capturing authentic and real moments alongside the posed ones, makes these sessions so much fun. As we ended our time together and the family discussed dinner options, I snuck a candid moment of grandparents walking hand-in-hand as the sun began to lower in the clouds.
Capturing a dynamic extended family session is always a blast! While I love snapping that large group shot they all want, the moments I enjoy most are ones with the smaller groups. Cousins having fun together, sisters giving piggyback rides, sisters and sister-in-law laughing at the craziness that is family. It’s those beautiful, candid moments that put a smile on my face as I drive away from a crazy, but charming session!
Session Date: Saturday, April 25, 2026
Session Location: Bee Tree Park | Oakville, Missouri
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