There’s something about Little Cottonwood Canyon in the summer that feels almost unreal. The air is crisp, the mountains rise dramatically in every direction, and when the wildflowers are in full bloom, it feels like stepping straight into a painting. This family session was one of those evenings where everything aligned … the light, the landscape, and the love between the people standing in front of my lens.
This sweet family of five took me into Little Cottonwood Canyon for their session, and from the moment we started walking through the wildflowers, I knew this was going to be something special. Christina and Scott were celebrating not just another season of life, but a continued love story — one that looks just as steady and joyful as it did two years ago, when I last photographed them in Big Cottonwood Canyon. (Yes, they’re still that in love — the kind of couple that makes you smile behind the camera.)
Watching Kids Grow Is One of the Greatest Gifts
One of my favorite parts of being a family photographer is getting to witness kids grow into themselves over time. This family has two teenage girls, both 13, and a little sister who is 9, and wow, are these girls coming into their own.
The teenagers brought a quiet confidence, a sense of ease, and personalities that truly shined during the session. There were moments of laughter, soft smiles, and that beautiful in-between stage of life where you’re no longer a little kid, but not quite grown, and it’s powerful to witness. Their little sister balanced the group perfectly with her joyful energy, curiosity, and effortless ability to bring out genuine smiles from everyone around her.
There were giggles in the wildflowers, playful glances between sisters, and moments where Mom and Step-Dad simply stood back and watched the girls be exactly who they are. Those are the moments I’m always looking for, the ones that feel real, unposed, and deeply meaningful.
Little Cottonwood Canyon Is a Dream Location
If you’ve ever wondered whether Little Cottonwood Canyon is a good location for family photos, let me answer that clearly: absolutely yes.
The canyon offers sweeping mountain views, lush greenery, and during the summer months, the most incredible wildflowers. The backdrop changes with every step, tall peaks, rolling meadows, and soft light that wraps around families so beautifully. It’s one of those places that doesn’t need much direction; you just let families walk, talk, laugh, and exist together while the mountains do the rest.
And yes, there may have been a little joking about not wanting to leave because how could you when the scenery looks like this? Totally valid.
Why These Sessions Matter
This session wasn’t just about pretty photos (though we definitely got those). It was about documenting a season … a family that has grown, blended, and strengthened over time. A couple still deeply in love. Sisters finding their voices. A little girl still holding onto childhood joy. All of it framed by a landscape that feels timeless.
These are the images that will mean more with every passing year. The ones that will remind them not just of what they looked like, but how this season felt.
If you’re dreaming of a family session in Little Cottonwood Canyon or anywhere in Utah, I would love to help you plan something meaningful, relaxed, and full of heart. These mountains have a way of holding stories, and it’s always an honor to help families tell theirs.
