Photos of grandparents with grandchildren belong in your family story—because their stories helped shape yours.
They’ve lived more decades than you’ve been alive.
They carry deep wells of wisdom.
So much love to give.
There’s a special kind of laughter that only happens when Grandpa tells one of his stories—the one the grandkids know the ending by heart. They laugh anyway.
Grandma sets down the pie, still warm. She remembers who likes whipped cream and who doesn’t. She brings out the same teacups she used when you were little.
You glance around the table and realize—this is the story. Right here.
Not just your children’s stories.
Not just yours.
But the one that stretches further back. The one that began it all. The one still present in quiet, faithful ways.
In our fast-paced world, it’s easy to overlook the bigger legacy—the hands that have held generations, the arms that have sacrificed, worked hard, and offered grace without needing credit.
Not just for you, but for your children—and theirs.
Let them remember what it felt like to be loved by more than just Mom and Dad.
Let them remember who came before.
Table of Contents
What Is Generational Photography?
It’s not just a family photo.
It’s telling the many chapters of the story of your family.
It’s a way to honor the people who came before—
the ones who built the foundation your family stands on now.
The ones who have always shown up your whole life, and still show up when you need them.
For your children, these photos become more than just pictures.
They become an anchor.
A way to preserve a legacy.
A way to remember who came before.
A way to carry that story forward.
How to Include Grandparents in Photos
How do you get the best photos of grandparents with grandchildren? Place the grandparents in the center of the photo, and pile everyone around them.
The intention isn’t stylistic.
It’s meaningful.
A photograph has the power to visually affirm what we sometimes forget to say out loud:
You are the heart. It began with you. We love you.
Legacy isn’t loud.
But it shows up, right in the center of the frame.
When you place them there, surrounded by children and grandchildren, you’re telling a story without needing words. You’re honoring the quiet strength that built the family—layer by layer, year by year.
It’s a simple choice.
But it says everything.
Generational Photo Ideas: Grandparents with Grandkids Together
Here are some ideas that invite movement, warmth, and memory-making—without feeling forced or overly stylized. Use just a few, or weave them throughout your photos.
The Wrap-Around
Grandkids wrapping their arms around grandparents from behind
Best when grandparents are seated
Creates playfulness and closeness
The Wrap-Around 2
Grandparents wrapping their arms around grandkids from behind
Best standing
Sweet, protective, and grounding
Seated Connection
Grandparents seated on a bench or stools, grandkids gathered around, leaning in
Layered closeness—youngest in laps, older kids beside
Feels anchored, cozy, and calm
Walking Together
Holding hands, walking side by side
Great for candid smiles, movement, and shared memories
Whisper & Giggle
Prompt: “Whisper something silly in Grandpa’s ear”
Captures real laughter, surprise, and joy
A great transition shot between poses
Tips for a Beautiful Grandparent and Grandchild Photo Session
1. Happy Kids > Perfect Light
Photographers can be pretty pushy about the time of day to photograph. I get it, I’m one of them! But beautiful light doesn’t trump happy kids. Be flexible with your session time, especially if you have toddlers or babies in the group. A earlier session with joy beats a golden hour meltdown. Talk with your photographer about finding a location and time that suits all the objectives—not just the lighting rules.
2. Provide a Place for Grandparents to Sit
I bring stools or a bench to every grandparent session. It serves two purposes: props and practicality. Grandparents often welcome a chance to rest between shots. Seated poses also naturally invite closeness—little ones tend to lean in, climb up, or snuggle close when Grandma or Grandpa is sitting.
3. Choose a Location That Doesn’t Require Much Walking
Minimal walking is key. Select a location that’s easily accessible, with nearby parking and flat terrain. That way, everyone can focus on the moment—not the trek.
4. Feed the Kids Beforehand
A great photo session starts with a fed, rested child. Give them a solid snack or a full meal beforehand, and plan naps accordingly for the youngest ones.
6. Keep It Simple
Don’t overpack the session. A smaller group or limited number of shots often creates a calmer, more meaningful experience. Give your grandparents breaks if it’s needed. Focus on connection, not quantity.
7. Trust Your Photographer
If you’ve hired someone who understands generational sessions, let them guide the flow. They’ll know how to pace the moments and when to step back. Sometimes, the magic happens in the in-between.
Outfit Ideas for Generational Family Photos
Choose 3–5 colors for everyone to pull from—depending on the size of your group.
Smaller families can stick with three colors. Larger extended families (12+) can stretch up to five.
A mix of solids and prints works beautifully. Soft tones, earthy neutrals, and textured layers photograph especially well in outdoor settings. The goal isn’t to match—it’s to coordinate together.
Dresses for the ladies will elevate your family photos.
That doesn’t mean everyone has to wear one.
Stay true to yourself, and wear something comfortable—something that makes you feel like a million bucks.
Making It a Gift: Photo Sessions for Grandparents
Speaking as both a parent and a grandparent (meet my grandbaby here!), there are few things I cherish more than photos with the people I love the most. There isn’t a more meaningful gift you can give.
Photos with grandchildren don’t just hang on the wall—they live in hearts.
Don’t wait for the “perfect” time. The photos they’ll treasure most are the ones you take now.
Booking Your Photos of Grandparents With Grandchildren
Booking is simple! We’ll get your date saved, and I’ll send you a welcome guide to help you begin planning. You can find our details and pricing on my family page.
Meet the W & Q Family
Grandma W contacted me a few years ago. She was celebrating a special birthday and guess what she wanted for her birthday? Photos with her grandkids! A wish came true! She loved her pictures so much, she wanted to do it again. I was overjoyed to see the W and Q families again last week for the adorable photography session of photos of grandparents with grandkids you see featured here.
My Story
For well over a decade, my youngest sister has lived out of state. You can imagine how important it’s been to take photos when we all get together. We took for granted the fact that we all lived close for so many years. We see each other annually. And guess what we’ve made priority–the generational family picture. My mom makes sure of it.
My Grandparents
I still remember my Oma—grandma in German—telling me stories about the places she traveled and the books she read. I didn’t realize then how much I’d treasure those stories now that she’s passed.
My grandfather left me a coin and a cuckoo clock with my name on them. Little things. But they mean more with time.
That’s what these photos become: little things, at first. Until they’re the big things even time can’t take away.
Something to cherish for generations. And your story deserves to be remembered.
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