Meeting the Kauffman family was such a joy!

They made the journey from Challis to work with me as their Idaho family photographer, and we ended up in an incredible spot for their photos. Surrounded by stunning, 360-degree views of the Valley, we couldn't have asked for better weather. The open landscape, combined with a perfect blue sky, set the stage for capturing the Kauffman family’s first-ever professional photos. As a Salmon, Idaho photographer, I feel so lucky to be able to showcase these breathtaking locations and share them with wonderful families like the Kauffmans.

First-time sessions can sometimes be a bit intimidating, especially when you’re meeting your photographer for the first time. I know it’s easy to feel nervous, wondering if things will feel awkward, and sometimes it’s just hard to relax in front of the camera. But I always focus on creating a relaxed, fun experience. From the moment they arrived, the Kauffmans were open-hearted and ready to have a good time! They showed up with big smiles and were willing to try anything I suggested. And let me tell you, it made the session not just memorable but an absolute blast!

We spent our time exploring the location, finding the best angles and light to capture everyone’s unique personalities. The kids, LJ and Sawyer, brought so much energy and life to the session. Sawyer, especially, was in her element and could have been directing me—she was that comfortable! LJ was a bit more reserved at first, which is typical at his age, but with a little encouragement, he warmed up and we captured some wonderful moments. I find that boys can be hit-or-miss depending on the day, but it’s always worth the little bit of patience for those genuine smiles and laughs.

This experience with the Kauffmans reminded me of why I love being a Salmon, Idaho photographer. Not only do I get to meet amazing families, but I also get to create a welcoming environment for them to relax, be themselves, and enjoy the moment together. I’m so grateful for families like the Kauffmans who go out of their way to travel for a session and trust me to capture these memories.