I took the most beautiful drive to Challis, Idaho recently, about an hour from Salmon, and every mile was lined with color. The fall trees along the Salmon River were glowing gold and orange, making the perfect backdrop for the Johnson family’s extended family session.

Leandra and her brother had a sweet surprise planned for their parents. They both came to visit and decided to sneak in a little family photo session while everyone was together. I’m so glad they did! It was one of those perfect Idaho days where the light hits just right and the mountains and trees seem to show off a little extra.

Extended family sessions are always a mix of laughter, love, and a little bit of beautiful chaos, but the Johnson family was relaxed, kind, and easygoing from start to finish. We captured such a great mix of groupings: mom and dad with their grown children, the grandchildren together, and of course, everyone as one big family.

Khloe and Harper, the cousins, absolutely stole the show. You can tell they adore each other, giggling, running between photos, and making sure they got a few “just us” shots together. It’s those moments that really show why family photos matter. Years from now, these will be the pictures they look back on and remember how fun it was to be together.

The family brought a charming little bench for Grandma, and it added such a lovely touch to the portraits, both practical and sentimental. Between the laughter, the leaves, and the love this family shares, the whole evening felt calm and full of joy.

I always say extended family sessions are such a gift, not just for the grandparents, but for every generation. It’s a chance to capture all those relationships that make a family what it is. The Johnson family was such a wonderful reminder of that, and I couldn’t have asked for a better day to spend in Challis, surrounded by the beautiful fall colors, family, and connection.

If you’re looking for a Challis Idaho Photographer or planning an extended family session, I’d love to help you create something just as special. Fall is one of the most beautiful times to update your family photos, and I promise, we’ll make it fun, relaxed, and full of those in-between moments that tell your story best.