Laughter in the Leaves: A Fall Family Shoot in Cottonwood Canyon, UT
There’s just something magical about a fall family shoot in Cottonwood Canyon, Utah. The crisp mountain air, leaves crunching underfoot, and golden light filtering through the trees—it’s the kind of place that invites families to slow down and soak up every moment. Add in a joyful, close-knit crew like this one, and the session becomes unforgettable. Coming to Utah to capture moments like these are ones I live for as a Northern California photographer.
From the moment they arrived, this family brought all the heart and energy. Mom and her three beautiful daughters were joined by her new husband and the girls’ loving stepdad. The dynamic between all of them was so natural, so joyful, and so full of mutual love and respect. You could tell that this wasn’t just a blended family—it was a bonded one.
Let’s talk about the girls. The oldest two—twins—were full of personality and charm. They shifted seamlessly between goofiness and grace, teasing each other one moment and striking model-worthy poses the next. Their little sister wasn’t far behind, twirling in her cute corduroy dress, and stealing the spotlight with her sweet smile and playful energy. Watching the three of them together was a dream. Their bond was effortless and so fun to capture.
And then there’s Christina and Scott—the heart of it all. Christina radiates warmth and joy, grounding the session with calm energy and affection. Scott? He was right there in every moment—cheering the girls on, sharing laughs with them, and embracing his role not just as a partner, but as a trusted, loved father figure. Watching the way the girls responded to him—with comfort and connection—was one of the most moving parts of the session. These kinds of relationships don’t just happen—they’re built with time, trust, and lots of love.
As we wandered through the meadow, Cottonwood Canyon put on a full fall display for this cute family of five. The light shimmered through the trees, and everything felt wrapped in that signature autumn magic. There’s a reason why I love photographing Utah mountain family sessions here in the fall—this place knows how to show off.
The entire session was filled with laughter, love, and tender moments that felt completely true to who this family is. It wasn’t about posed perfection—it was about the real stuff. The joy. The connection. The quiet strength that holds people together.
If you’re looking to document your own fall family photos in Cottonwood Canyon, this is your sign. Whether your family is growing, blending, or simply embracing a new chapter, I’d be honored to help you capture it all—leaf piles, laughter, and love included.
