Blackwelder Family Creek Bed Session in Limon, Colorado

Early summer in eastern Colorado is one of my favorite times for family sessions, and the Blackwelder family’s June session on the creek bed was exactly why. Everything was lush, green, and glowing, and their red, white, and blue color scheme could not have been more perfect. It felt like pure summer Americana — simple, classic, and absolutely beautiful.

This family is from right here in Limon, and they showed up with the best energy. Three kids: the oldest brother, the middle sister, and the youngest sister (a toddler with a big personality). When young siblings are involved, the only rule is to go with the flow, and the Blackwelders did just that. The result was a session full of movement, laughter, and real moments that feel like their family.

A Summer Americana Palette on the Creek Bed

The creek bed in June is such a gem — soft sand, tall grasses, and that deep green that only lasts a few months out of each year. Add in their red, white, and blue outfits, and the whole session felt like a postcard. The colors popped beautifully against the landscape, and the kids looked relaxed and comfortable in what they were wearing.

The oldest brother was patient and helpful, the middle sister brought all the personality, and the toddler kept us on our toes in the best way. These are the ages where you don’t force perfection — you capture the chaos, the sweetness, and the in‑between moments that tell the real story.

Going With the Flow When Young Kids Are Involved

If there’s one thing I always tell families with young children, it’s this: don’t sweat the small stuff. Toddlers wiggle, siblings tease, someone always needs a snack, and that’s all part of it. The Blackwelder family embraced every moment, and because of that, their images feel natural and full of life.

Kids don’t need to sit perfectly still to create beautiful photos. In fact, the best images often come from letting them explore, move, and interact with their surroundings. When parents stay relaxed, kids follow their lead — and the whole session becomes easier and more enjoyable for everyone.

A Quick Tip for Preparing for Your Family Session

Here’s my favorite tip for families with young children:

Set the expectation that the session will feel like play, not a performance. Tell your kids you’re going to the creek to explore, walk, snuggle, and have fun together. When the pressure is off, kids show up as their true selves — and that’s exactly what photographs beautifully.

Bring water, a snack, and an extra layer just in case, but most importantly, bring patience. I’ll guide the session, keep things moving, and make sure we get a mix of posed and candid images without forcing anything.