One of the very first questions families ask me after booking is:
“Where should we take our family pictures?”
Honestly…it’s one of my favorite questions to answer.
One of the best parts of living in Southern Utah is that we’re surrounded by incredible landscapes. Within an hour or two, you can go from towering pine trees to bright red rock cliffs, peaceful mountain meadows, lava fields, or golden desert sunsets.
Every location tells a different story.
When families ask me where they should go, my answer is usually, “Let’s find a place that feels like you.”
If your family loves hiking and adventure, let’s head to the mountains.
If your kids love running barefoot through open fields, I know just the place.
If you’re dreaming of dramatic red rocks and glowing sunsets, Southern Utah has plenty of those too.
Here are a few of my favorite locations and why I love each one.
Cedar Mountain
If I had to choose one place that feels like home, it would probably be Cedar Mountain. I've spent every summer up on Cedar Mountain. Camping, exploring, and relaxing.
I absolutely love everything about it.
The cool mountain air.
The smell of pine trees.
The wildflowers.
The golden light filtering through the forest.
Summer is one of my favorite times to photograph here because while the desert is heating up, the mountains stay comfortable and beautiful.
Families can actually relax and enjoy being together instead of worrying about the heat.
Kids love exploring the trails, collecting pinecones, and searching for interesting rocks while we walk.
Those little adventures usually lead to the sweetest candid moments.
Three Peaks
Three Peaks is one of my favorite locations for families who love wide-open spaces.
The unique white "bubble" rocks and beautiful sunsets create such a peaceful backdrop.
It’s especially beautiful during the warmer months when the evening light turns everything soft and golden.
This location gives kids room to run, laugh, and simply be themselves.
As a mom, I’ve learned that children almost always smile more when they’re allowed to move instead of being asked to stand perfectly still.
Those genuine moments are usually my favorite photographs from the entire session.
Cedar Breaks
If you’re looking for mountain scenery that feels almost magical, Cedar Breaks is hard to beat.
The overlooks are breathtaking, and during the summer, the wildflowers are absolutely incredible. Wild flower season is one of my FAVORITE seasons up there!
It’s one of those places that reminds me how lucky we are to live in Southern Utah.
Every time I photograph here, I leave feeling inspired.
Snow Canyon State Park
If your family loves Southern Utah’s iconic red rock landscapes, Snow Canyon is one of my favorite recommendations.
The contrast between the red cliffs, white sandstone, and soft desert colors creates such a timeless look.
Sunset here is especially beautiful.
The warm evening light makes everything glow.
Sand Hollow
Sand Hollow has such a fun personality.
Whether we’re photographing near the water, the sandstone, or the dunes, it offers a unique look that feels adventurous and bright.
This location is especially beautiful for families who love being outdoors and don’t mind letting the kids explore a little.
Some of the best smiles happen when children are climbing rocks, throwing little pebbles into the water, or simply discovering something new.
Hidden Gems Around Cedar City
Some of my favorite locations aren’t the ones you’ll find on a tourist map.
They’re quiet little fields.
Mountain roads.
Pine forests.
Grassy clearings.
Places I’ve stumbled across while exploring Southern Utah with my family.
Those hidden spots often become favorites because they offer beautiful scenery without the crowds.
How to Choose the Right Location
Instead of asking yourself, “What’s the prettiest place?”
Try asking,
“Where would my family actually enjoy spending an evening together?”
That’s usually the better question.
The best family photos don’t happen because the location is perfect.
They happen because your family feels comfortable.
When you’re relaxed, laughing together, and enjoying the experience, your personalities naturally shine through.
That’s what makes photographs meaningful.
My Favorite Time of Year
People are sometimes surprised when I tell them that summer is one of my favorite seasons for family sessions.
I know…
Utah gets hot.
But here’s the secret.
We don’t have to stay in the desert.
One of my favorite things about Cedar City is that within a short drive, we can escape to cooler mountain temperatures on Cedar Mountain.
Long summer evenings, fresh mountain air, and golden light make for some of my favorite sessions of the entire year.
There’s something about kids chasing each other through a mountain meadow while the sun sets behind the trees that never gets old.
Your Family Doesn’t Need to Be Perfect
If you’re worried your kids won’t sit still…
Please don’t be.
As a mom of two energetic little boys, I completely understand.
My house is usually filled with monster trucks, construction vehicles, balls rolling across the floor, and boys who somehow manage to come home covered in dirt no matter what we do.
I’ve learned that childhood isn’t supposed to be perfectly tidy.
It’s meant to be lived.
That’s exactly how I approach family sessions.
We’ll absolutely capture those beautiful portraits where everyone is smiling at the camera.
But I’ll also encourage your family to play.
To explore.
To hug a little tighter.
To laugh a little louder.
Because years from now, those are often the moments you’ll treasure most.
Let’s Find Your Perfect Location
Choosing a location doesn’t have to feel overwhelming.
When you book a session with me, I’ll help you choose the spot that best matches your family’s personality, the season, and the style you’re hoping for.
Whether you’re dreaming of mountain pines, wide-open fields, or Southern Utah’s stunning red rocks, we’ll find the perfect place together.
Then we’ll create photographs that help you remember this beautiful season of your life.
Because we never get to be this age again.
A Little About Lindsey 🤍
Hi! I’m Lindsey.
If you asked my family where I’d rather spend a Saturday, they’d probably tell you I’d choose the mountains every single time.
Cedar Mountain has my heart. There’s something about the fresh air, tall pines, and cooler summer evenings that instantly makes me slow down and appreciate the little things.
When I’m not photographing amazing families, you’ll usually find me outside with my two boys. We love hiking, camping, hammocking, off-roading, and finding new places to explore. They’re convinced every stick is either a sword or part of a monster truck obstacle course, and honestly…their imagination makes every adventure more fun.
Photography has taught me that the ordinary moments often become the most extraordinary memories. That’s why I love documenting the hugs, the laughter, the dirt on little knees, and the moments in between the perfectly posed portraits.
Those are the memories I hope you’ll treasure for years to come.
