It was my turn to head to Challis to see the James family this year, and wow, did we luck out with the views!

The James family has been one of those loyal, incredible families that I look forward to photographing year after year. Most years, they make the drive to Salmon for their session, but this time I was determined to return the favor and come to them. The weather definitely tried to test our plans, rain clouds rolled through in the morning, but we stuck with it, and I am so glad we did. Because Challis showed off in full fall color.

I take a handful of Challis Idaho family sessions every year, and I’m still exploring all the beauty this area has to offer. I have a few favorite locations, but each trip teaches me something new about the landscape and light. This was my second time shooting at this particular spot, but I went the opposite direction this time, and it was just as stunning. Challis is truly one of those places that takes your breath away no matter which way you turn.

The trees were glowing in rich fall color, deepened by the morning rain. Everything felt alive and bold. You could smell the rain in the air, and the mountains had that soft, misty look that only happens this time of year. I can’t imagine a better backdrop for a family that has grown up in front of my camera.

And speaking of growing up, Mason and Lucas. These two have been in front of my lens for years, and they have never failed to make me laugh. They’re brothers through and through, competitive, hilarious, and full of energy. Since this wasn’t their first “rodeo” with me, they knew exactly what to expect: fun, laughter, and maybe a few goofy moments in between. Every year, I have to adjust to where they’re at, what makes them smile, what gets them laughing together. This year’s magic word? Farts. Total home run.

There’s something special about photographing a family year after year. You don’t just see them change, you grow with them. You start remembering which jokes work, which side they love best, and how they interact naturally. That connection shows in every photo.

I even included an older shot of Mason and Lucas for this gallery, same pose, same energy, just a few inches taller and a lot more personality.

For me, that’s the magic of yearly family photos. You capture time in a way you can’t recreate later. It’s a snapshot of who you are right now, your laughs, your quirks, your family rhythm.

So if you’re in Challis, Idaho and thinking about updating your family photos, don’t wait for “the perfect time.” Every year brings its own story, and it’s worth documenting, rain, laughs, farts, and all.