Can you even believe Lilly's eyes with the green dress? She made the bold (and very wise) decision to take her photos in late fall instead of spring, and the golden leaves could not have matched her bright, joyful personality more perfectly. She was relaxed, playful, and completely herself from the moment we started. About the Location One of my favorite things about this spot is how close it is to the Provo/Orem area — about 20 minutes — yet it feels like you’re tucked deep in the mountains. Access is incredibly easy. We’re right next to the parking lot, which makes it perfect for quick outfit changes or warming up in the car between sets. It’s beautiful year round: lush in summer, glowing in fall, and absolutely magical with fresh snow. If you want mountain views without a long hike, variety in your backgrounds, and flexibility for multiple outfits, this is a fantastic choice.
Extended family sessions can be a beautiful kind of chaos. Big groups. Wide age ranges (which means very different attention spans). People traveling in from all directions. And hopefully a setting that feels good for everyone. This one added another variable: the cold. I pulled into the parking lot and immediately smiled. The family had set up propane heaters for everyone to gather around while they waited for their turn. Their thoughtfulness — and ingenuity — made the whole evening feel warmer before we even started. I might need to invest in a few heaters myself for future winter shoots. The red rock against the fresh snow created the coziest contrast. Even with the low winter sun and freezing temperatures, there was a feeling of closeness that carried us through the session. About the location: This area is ideal for larger groups because we’re close to parking and don’t have to walk far between setups. That means grandparents, little kids, and everyone in between can stay comfortable. The landscape gives us incredible texture — warm stone, open sky, and beautiful light in the winter months. Why it works for extended families: Easy access, quick transitions, and lots of room for combinations make this a reliable favorite when many people are involved.