Is it a good idea to schedule a documentary family photography session when my family visits me in Taipei?

The answer is yes, documentary family photography sessions also work for special occasions like visits from family. While documentary family photography shines when it comes to capturing the beauty in your everyday life, a documentary session works well any time where storytelling and capturing authentic interaction is the goal.

Family coming to Taipei for a visit may be a break from your everyday routine, but it doesn’t mean there isn’t a beautiful story to tell here. A lot of people think that their only option for family photos with a larger group is a posed photoshoot where everyone is looking at the camera, and there’s nothing wrong with this option if it’s what you’re looking for. But I’m here to tell you that there’s another way if you want to capture genuine interactions with your family while they’re here.

I’ve photographed many extended family sessions, sometimes with up to 20 people. The way it typically works is we get a few group shots where everyone is looking at the camera, and after that, you all hang out and enjoy each other’s company. I join you, witness you, and document the story of your time together. There are always beautiful moments; there is always a story worth preserving.

The photos below are from a documentary family photography session that involved visiting family. Did we do anything super crazy? No. We hung out at home and at the playground nearby. Did moments happen that told a story about place, time, and relationships? Yes!