An Unforgettable Extended Family Session in Challis, Idaho

Working as an Idaho Family Photographer means I often get the chance to reconnect with familiar faces and document new chapters in their lives. Randi and her family are one of those cherished connections. Over the years, I’ve had the privilege of capturing their milestones, and every time I leave their sessions, my heart is full. Randi has this way of making everyone feel at ease. She’s genuine, warm, and always ready with a laugh, which makes every session a joy.

When she reached out about organizing an extended family session in Challis, Idaho, I couldn’t wait. The thought of photographing her siblings, their kids, and her parents sounded like an incredible opportunity to capture the beauty of family in all its forms.

We chose a November day for the shoot, knowing it might be chilly. What we didn’t expect was waking up to a frosty 10 degrees! Yes, 10. While I’ve worked in colder conditions (Idaho winters don’t mess around), I can safely bet that none of them will be clamoring for a late-fall session again anytime soon. But honestly, their spirits were high, and they powered through the cold like champs.

Extended family sessions have a unique charm. Unlike smaller family sessions where the focus is on one household, these larger gatherings bring out a different energy. The mix of cousins giggling, siblings reminiscing, and grandparents soaking in the love creates an atmosphere filled with joy and connection. Watching so many family members laugh together and enjoy each other’s company was heartwarming—despite the freezing temperatures!

For this session, I traveled to their beautiful ranch in Challis. Randi and her husband, Brandon, are lucky to call such a picturesque place home. Over the years, I’ve photographed many of their sessions here, and the landscape never ceases to amaze me. Randi has even graciously allowed me to use the ranch for other family sessions on occasion.

This time, we kept it simple and worked in their backyard. With so many family members and the biting cold, this arrangement allowed some to stay warm inside until it was their turn to step in front of the camera. It was a small adjustment that made a big difference, especially for the little ones.

Being an East Idaho Photographer, I’m always reminded during sessions like these of how special it is to preserve these fleeting moments. Seeing grandparents surrounded by their children and grandchildren is a reminder of the legacies we build and the memories we hold dear.

Randi, thank you for trusting me once again to document your family’s story. Your extended family session was not only a celebration of love and connection but also a testament to resilience (seriously, 10 degrees!). I can’t wait to work with you again—hopefully on a much warmer day!