A winding dirt path, bright golden aspens, deep green evergreens, and a family of six walking hand in hand. This Utah canyon family session was all about slowing down, laughing a lot, and letting real moments happen along the trail.

Why I Love a Canyon Trail Session

A canyon trail gives you so much variety in one short walk: golden aspens on one side, evergreens on the other, and warm light filtering through the trees. Instead of standing in one spot, we keep moving. Walking together gives everyone something to do, which takes the pressure off and brings out the most natural expressions.

Here is what to expect: we meet at the trailhead about an hour before sunset, take a short, easy walk, and stop wherever the light looks best. Little legs never get too tired, and you are home in time for dinner.

Ashlee and her husband brought their crew of four kids, a teen boy and three girls, and we started with an easy family photo so everyone could warm up. After that, the trail did the rest.

Candid Walks, Hugs, and Giggles

My favorite moments at a Utah canyon family session usually happen in between the prompts. A slow walk turned into swinging hands. A group hug turned into a full-on giggle fest, with the kids laughing so hard they could barely stand. And one little girl peeking out between Mom and Dad is going straight to the top of my favorites list.

Sessions for Older and Younger Kids

Families with a wide age range sometimes worry that someone will be bored or that the teen won’t want to be there. I keep things moving and give each age something that works for them. Teens get relaxed, low-key direction (and no cheesy poses). Little ones get games, races, and a chance to snuggle. I also take a few quick portraits of each child so everyone gets a moment of their own.

And Mom always gets a portrait too. You are such a big part of this season of life, and you deserve to be in the photos.

Coordinating Blush, Burgundy, and Cream

This family’s outfits were a great example of coordinating without matching. Blush pink, burgundy florals, cream ribbed knit, and chocolate brown came together with tan chinos, suede boots, and one playful polka-dot dress. Here’s how to get the same look:

• Choose one soft color (blush), one deep color (burgundy), and one neutral (cream), then repeat them across the family.
• Let one or two people wear a pattern, like a floral or polka dot, and keep the rest solid.
• Ground the palette with browns and tans, which look beautiful next to evergreens.
• Choose shoes that can handle a dirt path. Boots are perfect.

Plan Your Utah Canyon Family Session

Canyon sessions are one of my favorite ways to photograph families, whether you have toddlers, teens, or a mix of both. If you’re wanting holiday photos before the year ends, check out this Christmas tree farm family session and our Santa pictures in Utah. You can also learn more about booking a Utah family photographer. Ready to get on the calendar? See pricing or reach out here. I’d love to meet your family!