Family photos near Denver.

How to plan family photos that feel easy, from timing around naps to what everyone should wear. From Mily & Danny in Genesee.

Start reading Family & holiday cards

Step 1

When to book

Fall is the busiest season for family photos, so book early if you want a fall weekend.

  1. September to NovemberGolden grass, crisp air and time to print holiday cards.
  2. Spring and summerGreen pines, long evenings and easier dates.
  3. WinterSnow-dusted pines when it comes, and an early golden hour that works for little ones.

Step 2

Keep little ones happy

Happy kids make the best photos. Plan around them, not the other way around.

  1. Work around napsA rested toddler beats perfect light. Daytime in the forest shade works well too.
  2. Snacks and a favorite toySomething small and not messy, plus a toy to hold or hide behind the camera.
  3. Let them runThe meadow is made for running, twirling and piggyback rides. Some of the best photos happen between poses.
Mily and her dad smiling together on the patio at sunset, pink clouds over the mountains and pines behind them

Step 3

What everyone should wear

Pick two or three colors and let everyone mix them. Warm, soft colors like cream, rust, navy and dusty blue look great against the pines.

Start with one person's outfit, often mom's, and build around it. More ideas in our what to wear guide.

Step 4

Time it to the light

Golden hour is the favorite, and a daytime session in the forest shade is easier with very young kids.

Pink and purple sunset clouds over the Indian Peaks and layered foothills

Golden hour

Warm, soft light and glowing skies behind your family.

Warm and soft
The flagstone patio and lawn under glowing string lights at blue hour

Blue hour

A few cozy photos under the patio string lights, if the kids are still up for it.

Calm and moody

Check sunrise and sunset for any date on our photo sessions page.

A golden doodle and a chocolate lab running across the snowy lawn toward the camera

Step 5

Keep it small

Sessions are for up to about 6 people plus your photographer. That's room for parents, kids and maybe a grandparent, and pets are welcome too.

Taking holiday card photos? Read our Christmas card photo guide.

Plan your family photos

Bring your own photographer, have Danny take your photos, or ask us for names of local photographers whose work we like.

Check a date Family & holiday cards

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