Hi, I’m Haili! I’m a family photographer in the Colorado Springs area, and one of the requests I get most is to set up family vacation photoshoots for out-of-town guests visiting the area. Booking a family vacation photographer is a great idea! It’s a fun and memorable way to update your annual family portraits. Plus, document your family vacation memories too.
Reasons to book a photoshoot during a family vacation
I know the idea of packing coordinating outfits, finding a photographer, and picking a location you’ve never been to for family photos sounds a little tricky. A vacation should be relaxing right?! Right! Trips together are such amazing memories. You get 18 precious summers with your kiddos. As each year passes, the details of the last summer become a little fuzzier and further removed.
You and I both know that your kids will look different in six months. Their hair will grow, they might lose a tooth, they’re going to shoot up in height overnight. When you book a family photoshoot during vacation, you get to capture not only this phase of your family’s life, but also the joy of being together in a new place, taking time out from the day-to-day to experience something new. A great photographer will offer an easy experience that doesn’t take away from your relaxing vacation.
Best places for family photos in Colorado Springs
Okay, since you’re out of town, you might need a little help picking locations for your family photoshoot! Here are my personal top picks, especially if you haven’t been to the area before and are looking for unique, scenic spots.
This location features red rock formations that are beautiful and unique to Colorado Springs! It does tend to draw a crowd, so we’d have some limitations and be working around people. This is still doable!
If you want the mountain views but don’t want to deal with hiking and crowds, Ute Valley Park is perfect! There’s parking nearby so you don’t break a sweat getting to your destination. Plus, lots of open fields so your kiddos can run some energy off after the session.
If you have transportation while you’re in the area, Woodland Park is about an hour drive from Colorado Springs. It has EPIC mountain views of Pike’s Peak that are so worth the commute! Accessibility can be tricky. If you’re visiting in the winter, we might not be able to work here due to icy road conditions.
Those are my favorite family photo session locations in the area. But, there’s dozens more! Let me know what kind of session you’re looking for, and we will make a plan together. There’s a few great guides online as well. Best photo spots in Colorado Springs has a few more great options to consider.
What to pack for your family photos: choosing your outfits
Trying to decide what outfits to bring? First, this is a great question to ask your photographer! They may have a guide, mood board, or references for you. If you’re a visual person, I keep a family outfit inspiration board on Pinterest.
In general, you want to pick a scheme or palate of colors that go well together. Don’t try to match exactly or wear all the same colors. Avoid busy or tiny patterns, as that can appear different on camera. If one of you is wearing a print or very bold color, plan the other outfits around that one, with more neutrals and solid colors. When in doubt, ask for help! I’d be happy to look at your outfit selections and help you decide.
Inquire to book your family photos in Colorado Springs!
Headed to Colorado Springs? If so, I’d love to photograph your family! Once you’ve seen my work and know you like the style, reach out to schedule a free consultation call. Let’s get your family portrait session planned!
xo,
Haili Wright Photography
