Planning a family photoshoot with kids—especially in outdoor locations like the Alberta Badlands or the mountains—can feel like a lot. Between timing, outfits, snacks, and making sure everyone is in a good mood, it’s easy to wonder how it will all come together.
The good news? It doesn’t have to be stressful.
With a little preparation (and the right expectations), your session can feel relaxed, fun, and even a bit like a family adventure—something we focus on in every session at Maxine LaGarde Photography.
Why Outdoor Family Photos Feel More Natural for Kids
Outdoor family sessions give kids room to move, explore, and play naturally instead of feeling restricted in a studio setting. Whether we’re photographing your family in Calgary parks, the Alberta Badlands, or the mountains near Banff and Canmore, the goal is always the same: creating relaxed, connection-focused images that feel genuine to your family.
At Maxine LaGarde Photography, sessions are designed to feel more like an experience than a formal photoshoot—allowing space for movement, laughter, cuddles, and authentic moments that often become clients’ favourite images.
What Time Is Best for Family Photos?
When planning your session, timing plays a huge role—especially in outdoor locations like Drumheller and the mountains.
For mountain sessions, we typically start 2–3 hours before sunset since the mountains block light earlier than expected. For Badlands sessions, golden hour is more open—but still just as important.
Helpful tips:
Arrive early and ready to go
Fill up on gas ahead of time
Be flexible—cloud cover may shift timing slightly
What to Wear for Family Photos in the Mountains & Alberta Badlands
One of the easiest ways to keep everyone looking fresh?
Change kids into their outfits when you arrive—not before.
That way, snacks and travel don’t lead to unnecessary stress.
Color tips by location:
Badlands sessions:
Beige, taupe, khaki
Rust, brown, soft black, navy
Warm greys
Mountain sessions:
Dark green, cream, black
Soft blues, turquoise
Whites (in moderation)
Styling tips:
Mix tones within a color palette (avoid exact matching)
Add texture: knits, denim, wool, leather
Avoid too much white (it can wash out)
Keep tones either warm or cool for cohesion
Styling support and access to the client closet rentals are included with Maxine LaGarde Photography. For addition support in styling your session and a more bespoke styling service, please view my styling packages here;
STYLING, What to Wear for your Session with Maxine LaGarde Photography
and my FREE Styling guide, here;
Maxine LaGarde Complimentary Style Guide
How to Keep Kids Happy During Family Photos
A smooth car ride = a smoother session.
Bring:
Snacks and water
Baby wipes
A favourite toy or iPad
Portable potty (for younger kids)
And yes—a little bribery is completely okay.
A small treat or reward after the session can go a long way. If you plan to use one, just let me know so I can play along.
What Happens If Weather Changes During Your Session?
Outdoor sessions come with a bit of unpredictability.
If the weather doesn’t cooperate, we’ll reschedule. I’ll check in 24–48 hours before your session to confirm details and make any necessary adjustments.
Why Authentic Family Photos Matter More Than Perfect Posing
The most meaningful photos don’t come from perfectly behaved kids or perfectly styled outfits.
They come from connection, movement, and real moments.
Your job is simply to show up, be present, and trust the process.
Local Sessions vs Adventure Sessions
One of the biggest questions families ask is whether they should stay local or plan something more adventurous for their photoshoot.
The truth? Both can be beautiful.
Sometimes, a simple evening at a Calgary park creates the most meaningful images because everyone feels relaxed and comfortable. Other times, turning your session into a little adventure — whether that’s the Alberta Badlands, Kananaskis, or the mountains near Banff — creates an experience your family will remember forever.
Adventure sessions often feel less like a formal photoshoot and more like intentional time together. Kids get space to explore, parents slow down, and the scenery naturally adds depth and emotion to your images.
If you’re curious about planning something a little more unique, you can also read:
Why the Alberta Badlands Are the Most Underrated Location for Family Photos
The Best Elopement & Engagement Locations in Alberta — many of these locations also work beautifully for adventurous family sessions.
No matter which direction you choose, the goal is always the same: creating photographs that feel connected, effortless, and true to your family. If you still think local might be best, the next section if for you..
Calgary Family Photo Locations That Are Easy for Young Kids
If you’re still thinking that a destination location such as Banff or The Badlands might be too much for your kids, there are plenty of options in and around Calgary. Sometimes, the location matters less than the connection between the family members and effort spend capturing these moments on camera, and a city park will do the trick.
No matter what quadrant you live in, I have dozens of suggestions for photoshoot locations. Whatever your style, there are lots of options, and we can opt for ;
an urban city feel
a romantic field at sunset
an enchanting forests
a casual city park
My favourites are NoseHill Park, Fish Creek Park, Lindsay Park, Confederation Park, Discovery Ridge, Sandy Beach Park, North Glenmore Park, Discovery Ridge and Weaselhead Flats.
Family Photos Become More Meaningful Every Year
The beautiful thing about family photos is that they grow in value over time.
The messy stages, missing teeth, toddler curls, shy cuddles, and chaotic moments that may feel exhausting right now often become the memories parents miss most later on.
That’s why family sessions aren’t really about perfect photos. They’re about preserving connection exactly as your family is today.
Ready to Plan Your Alberta Family Session?
If you’re dreaming of a relaxed, outdoor family session in Calgary, the Badlands, or the mountains, I’d love to help you plan it.
Maxine LaGarde Photography offers:
Family sessions across Calgary, Drumheller, and surrounding Alberta areas
Styling support and client closet
Inquire to book your session and click here.
Looking for Something Even More Playful? Try Paint Mini Sessions
If your kids love movement, creativity, and getting messy, my Paint Mini Sessions might be the perfect fit.
These sessions are designed to feel carefree, interactive, and fun for the whole family — especially for little ones who may not love standing still for traditional photos. Instead of focusing on perfect posing, the experience is centered around connection, laughter, and genuine moments together.
Paint mini sessions are perfect for:
Families with young children
Parents wanting candid, emotion-filled photos
Creative maternity or motherhood sessions
Couples looking for something unique and playful
The relaxed setup allows kids to explore naturally while creating colorful, personality-filled images that feel joyful and authentic.
Styling guidance is included, and denim, overalls, and soft neutral tones photograph beautifully with the paint setup. Download the FREE Paint Mini Session Style Guide, here.
If you’re interested in a family session that feels more like an experience than a photoshoot, you can learn more about my Alberta Paint Mini Sessions here.
Soft, natural light and connection in this Drumheller family photography session
Close-up of a couple embracing during a family photoshoot in the Alberta Badlands at sunset
A heartfelt family moment captured in the Alberta Badlands at golden hour by Maxine LaGarde Photography
Quiet, emotional moments are what make Badlands sessions so meaningful
Adventure-style family sessions in Alberta create natural, joy-filled images
