6 adults + 5 kids + 17 degrees = Fun. Montana Style | Helena Montana Family Photographer

As a photographer, I have ideal times to schedule photo sessions and plans in mind so that I get the best possible images to present to the client. 

Newborns do best in the morning; during the summer time an engagement session is best scheduled about 90 minutes prior to sunset....   Families with small children do best in the spring or fall, generally mid-morning so the kiddos don't get crabby during their nap or dinner time. 

In that ideal world, the best time to schedule an extended family session of 11 (5 kids under 5!) probably wouldn't be when it's well below freezing a couple weeks before Christmas...

But then again, sometimes you gotta do what you gotta do and you end up with something great!

Luckily, the family I was recently photographing under these circumstances (did I mention it was 17 degrees?!) was totally flexible and very willing to go with the flow.  Between darting in and out of toy shops, taking a break for cocoa, then heading up to play in the beautiful mountain snow, we came away with some great images of a fun-loving group of people.

I've only begun delving into the images, but here are a few early favorites :)

Last minute minis | Helena, Montana Family Holiday Photographer

Have you seen that weather forecast?! 

 Hello, SNOW! 

This weekend will be perfect for a little Holiday mini-session fun. Last chance to get photos with Zo-Mak Photography (Montana Parent Magazine's November cover photographer) in time for Christmas cards.

Saturday, 1-3 pm. Only four spots available.  

Call (406.600.2879) or email suzie@zomakphotography.com for details.

(And check here for card designs)

Marcille Family | Helena, MT Family Photographer

You know how you meet someone and you just feel better for knowing them? That's how I felt with the Marcilles. They are just the nicest, most down-to-earth family. We had a great session this fall before the leaves were covered in snow. I truly enjoyed spending time with these guys, and I'm so glad they finally have a great piece of art on their wall to take the place of their last family photo that was taken over five years ago. Thanks for inviting me into your lives -- see you down the road!

Tee hee heeeee. They *actually* have four kids.

Carmen & Brian's backyard Great Falls Wedding | Helena, Montana Wedding Photographer

Earlier this summer, I had the opportunity to shoot along side Rab Cummings of Rabphotography again at Carmen and Brian's beautiful backyard wedding in Great Falls, MT.  So much love was put into every detail, and I was honored to spend the day with them.  Both the bride and groom (and all of the family members) are very active, enthusiastic folks.  You'll notice it didn't take them long to change from their fancy shoes to their Chacos.  My kind of people for sure.  

Congratulations to you both - what a beautiful beginning to a marriage between two people and two families who so clearly belong together.