Winter Family Photoshoot Inspiration in Lehi, Utah

I had so much fun photographing my sister-in-law and her family for these snowy photos just in time for Christmas cards. This is not the first time you have seen the Funas on the blog. In fact, they were featured in my latest post about wedding trends I hope to see in 2023! But this time I get to include some of my favorite photos of their daughter, my niece, too.

It had just snowed a few days prior, but this day we got a clear blue sky and some of my favorite winter photo light. It was beautiful to see how the light made the snow sparkle. We ended up with plenty of beautiful shots of their little family. Including lots of good choices for Christmas cards or grandparent gifts. Even during a cold winter shoot, we had so much fun! You can read more below about the reality of winter family photos with a toddler, and my take on the experience.

Taking Cold Family Photos With a Toddler

Taking family photos with toddlers is always a feat, but during winter it can be especially difficult. My niece, who we all lovingly call “Chubba” has an especially short attention span. Because of that, we decided to plan this session at a nearby park with a pond full of ducks. Choosing a location with a fun element like this can make a big difference. Especially if it is one your family is familiar with.

I love doing family photo sessions, and talk about them often here. I enjoy sharing snippets of how I make photoshoots more relaxed and enjoyable for kids, and their parents. But the reality is, even with all my go-to tips, they don’t always go smoothly. On this day, Chubba certainly ran the show! I’ll admit, there was screaming, tears, and an endless runny nose (hello outdoor winter sessions ha!) But that doesn’t mean it wasn’t worth it. Honestly, I love documenting all of it. That goes for any type of shoot I do – engagements, wedding days, family photos of all kinds. My job is to capture the reality of those moments in time, even the moments that don’t run so smoothly or look so picture-perfect. 

I have seen many parents get embarrassed when their kids start to act out during our photo session. But I get that kids just want to be kids, and I want to document them doing that! Often some moments of fun and wild play, with just a little direction from my end, leads to the best photos. And amid all the fun (and craziness) I will make sure to get the staple shots that mom wants too. I am happy to take our time and make sure your kids feel comfortable.

For this session with my in-laws, we let my niece explore. They threw around some some snow together, and fed the ducks (which was a big hit!) We ended up with a fun mix of photos. Maybe not all smiling perfectly at the camera, but all photos that represent this stage in the Funas family life just right.

Plan Your Real and Beautiful Family Photos

If you want a photographer who will capture every real and beautiful moment, I would love to document your family. We can take our time, select a location that is both beautiful and comfortable, and let your kids’ personalities shine.

I share my time between Utah and Southern California, with other travel destinations in-between. Click here to learn when I will be in your area!

This session was shot on Porta 400 and 800 and 120 format and 35mm. The images were developed and scanned at The Find Lab.