Winter Family Photoshoot at Neff’s Canyon in Millcreek, Utah
ESTIMATED READ TIME: 5 MINUTES
Experiencing your first family photoshoot is nothing short of magical, and the P Family’s session at Neff’s Canyon in Millcreek was truly unforgettable. Surrounded by towering mountains and a pristine blanket of snow, the setting was picture-perfect. The day was filled with laughter, playful snowball fights, and heartwarming moments—a beautiful celebration of family and togetherness against a breathtaking winter backdrop.
Creating Lasting Memories in Millcreek
Millcreek is one of my all-time favorite locations for photography, and Neff’s Canyon is truly its hidden gem. Nestled just east of Salt Lake City, this picturesque canyon offers sweeping mountain views, expansive open spaces, and year-round accessibility. Whether blanketed in fresh winter snow or bursting with vibrant wildflowers in the spring, Neff’s Canyon provides a stunning and versatile backdrop for any photoshoot.
During our session, the canyon was alive with activity. Families sledded down snowy hills, groups navigated the trails on snowshoes, and dog owners strolled with their pups. Despite the buzz, there was plenty of space for everyone to enjoy their activities without disruption.
Of course, enjoying a place as beautiful as Neff’s Canyon comes with a responsibility to protect it. While we didn’t leave anything behind to clean up after our shoot, it’s always worth remembering the importance of leaving these natural spots as pristine as we found them. A little care goes a long way in preserving these incredible landscapes for generations of visitors to come.
We have never taken family photos before and Karisa did a phenomenal job! We didn’t really know what to do and Karisa did great at helping with location, how to pose etc. I couldn’t be happier with how they turned out. Highly recommend!
Jen P.
(Google Review)
Mini Family Session
Starting at $150
- Perfect for holiday cards!
- Session is 20 minutes
- 15 professionally edited images
- $75 non-refundable deposit to book
- Remainder due the day before the session
Family Session
Starting at $250
- 2-6 people
- Session typically lasts 60 minutes
- 70+ professionally edited images
- $100 non-refundable deposit to book
- Remainder due the day before the session
Extended Family Session
Starting at $375
- 7+ people
- $10/person additional after 15 people
- Session typically lasts 60-90 minutes
- 70+ professionally edited images
- $100 non-refundable deposit to book
- Remainder due the day before the session
From Mantle-Worthy to Playful Candids
Since this was the P Family’s first official photoshoot, we started with the classic “mantle shots”—those perfectly posed images that look great framed on a wall. But once we captured those, it was time to get a little playful.
I always tell my clients, “If it feels silly, it probably looks good on camera.” The key to capturing genuine, candid moments is to keep things loose and fun. I want to document how families interact with each other on a daily basis, not just stiff, posed smiles.
With that in mind, we transitioned into some more lighthearted activities. The kids were thrilled to throw snowballs, and I have to say, they had pretty good aim! At one point, even mom and dad got in on the snowball fight, leading to some hilariously candid moments filled with genuine laughter.
Next, we discovered a snowman nearby, so the family gathered around it for some fun photos. Afterward, their two girls did a quick outfit change into gorgeous green dresses that stood out beautifully against the snowy backdrop. We captured some solo and duo portraits of them before wrapping up the session.
Tips for Getting Genuine Emotions in Family Photos
Capturing genuine emotions is the secret to creating stunning family photos. But how do you achieve that? Here are a few tips I used during my session with the P Family that you can apply to your own photoshoots:
Stay Loose and Have Fun: The more relaxed you are, the better the photos will be. This is why I encourage playful activities like snowball fights, dancing, or even playing tag. Movement creates natural, candid moments. Even simple actions like swaying side to side, bumping hips, or tossing your hair can add movement to your candids.
Embrace the Silly Moments: If something feels silly, it’s probably translating beautifully on camera. Whether it’s making funny faces, tickling each other, or striking a goofy pose, these moments bring out genuine smiles and laughter.
Focus on Interaction, Not Perfection: The best photos often come from moments of connection—hugs, hand-holding, or just looking at each other with love and admiration. It’s about capturing how you naturally interact as a family.
Trust Your Photographer: It can feel odd having a professional camera in your face, but remember, we’re there to capture the real you. Let go of any self-consciousness and enjoy the moment.
Why I Love Shooting at Neff’s Canyon
One of my favorite parts of being a photographer is exploring the beautiful landscapes around Utah. Neff’s Canyon holds a special place in my heart because of its accessibility and incredible scenery. Whether it’s a snowy winter day like this session or a sunny afternoon in the summer, the location offers endless possibilities.
It’s a dog-friendly spot, which is a huge bonus for me since I often bring my own dog along on adventures. It’s always a treat to see other families enjoying the trail with their four-legged friends. Another reason I love shooting here is the sense of community—whether people are sledding in winter or hiking in summer, there’s plenty of space for everyone to enjoy their own slice of the canyon.
Why Choose Millcreek for Your Family Photos
Thinking about booking a family portraits? Millcreek is an exceptional choice. Its stunning, diverse landscapes and year-round accessibility make it the perfect backdrop for capturing cherished memories in any season. For families who love the outdoors, Neff’s Canyon offers a picturesque setting that seamlessly blends traditional portraits with candid, heartfelt moments.
Whether you’re after classic “mantle-worthy” portraits or candid, playful moments that radiate genuine joy, I’m here to help you capture memories you’ll cherish forever. And remember, what might feel a little silly in the moment often translates to pure magic on camera!
Book Your Millcreek Family Photoshoot Today!
Whether you get family photos done every year or it’s your first time, let me help you capture the laughter, love, and connections that make your family unique. Contact me today to book your session at Neff’s Canyon or anywhere else in Millcreek. Let’s create memories you’ll cherish for a lifetime!
