This guide is everything you need to know about family photography in Crested Butte. It will include:

• what sessions are like
• pricing
• best locations
• best time of year
• what to wear
• how to prepare kids
• what happens after the session

How Much Does a Family Photography Cost in Crested Butte?

Pricing for family photo sessions in Crested Butte varies but on average an hour session will cost $350. Factors that affect photo session pricing are the photographer’s expertise, if products like digital files are included in the package and how much time is spent shooting and editing.

• Prices start between $245- $350
• Average costs of a family photo sessions are $2000 including time and photo products

Session length is also a factor that affects price. The longer the session the more expensive. Some photo studios offer mini session of 20-30 minutes while others offer sessions of an hour or more. An hour+ session allows a photographer to really capture the essences of the family with time to get a variety of backgrounds and play some fun games for relaxed, interactive moments.

Learn more about pricing here: Family Pricing Breakdown

What’s Included in a Family Photography Session?

Professional photographers in Crested Butte offer an hour photo session, a USB of high-resolution digital files and an online gallery with additional products available for purchase. Prices will vary based on the photographer’s expertise, time shooting and editing and the products. An hour session will yield up to 100 deliverable, fully edited images and are available in an online gallery for purchasing products and sharing.

Is Professional Family Photography Worth It?

Yes! A professional photographer in Crested Butte will know the best locations for your family photography shoot. A pro will make suggestions on wardrobe, time of day, location and provide top-tier products. Most importantly a professional will create an environment that is fun, easy and relaxed to capture natural and candid images with professional lighting and posing.

What to Expect During a Family Photography Session?

A family photography session should be fun and relaxed. Professional photographers will have prompts and games to help everyone relax and enjoy the hour. A photographer will help with posing and create pleasing compositions so that you look your best.

How to Prepare Kids for Family Photos (Without Stress)

Here are some tips on how to help kids prepare adn to enjoy the family photo shoot.

• time naps appropriately- don’t push your kid through a nap, request that the session work around the nap scheudle
• snacks- have some healthy, easy and clean snacks for in between including water
• prep them- have a conversation about the adventure the session will be with games and exploration
• clothing- dress them in comfortable clothing so they feel good

Want more? Read HERE to learn more about how to prepare kids for a photo shoot!

What to Wear for Family Photos in Crested Butte

What to wear for your family photos can be challenging. The best options are those that fit well and are comfortable, especially for kids.

• keep season and location in mind- especially important for footwear in the mountains
• colors and patterns matter- stick to one or two colors and only add one pattern
• fit is important- too baggy and you will look larger, too tight and you might feel uncomfortable
• makeup- even if you don’t always wear makeup, just a light touch will go far

Check out my What to Wear post for more on how to dress for the mountains.

Best Family Photography Locations in Crested Butte

There are endless of magical locations for family photography sessions in Crested Butte. Some of the best locations are:

• CB Campground- wildflower meadow and mountain views
• Woods Walk- aspen forest trail and view of Mt. Crested Butte
• Lower Loop- river access and Mt. Crested Butte view
• Gunsight River- river access and views of Mt. Crested Butte and Paradise Divide

For more details read my post: Best Spots for Family Photos

Best Time of Year for Family Photography in Crested Butte

Crested Butte is truly in the heart of the Rocky Mountains. This bring along beautiful views, magical wildflower fields, afternoon thunderstorms, endless rainbows and tons of snow!

• June- lupine flower fields and warm temps
• July- best for wildflower fields and afternoon rainbows
• September- golden aspen foliage and cooler temps
• December- March- snow, snow and more snow

Be sure to speak to your local photographer about your vision. Certain times of the year some locations are not accessible or not in bloom.

How to Get Natural Smiles in Family Photos

Some tricks of the trade that many photographers use to help families feel relaxed:

• games
• movement prompts
• no forced posing

Tips for Extended Family Photography Sessions

A professional photographer will know how to pose large groups and keep everyone organized. Let your photographer know what groupings you would like ahead of time.

Tips on how to get your best photos HERE

When Will We Get Our Family Photos Back?

Crested Butte photographers turnaround your photos very quickly. Most families are visiting for a short time so photographers will schedule a studio meeting to walk through your images and the products as fast as the next day. Photo printed products may take 2-4 weeks from ordering to delivery depending on the item.

How to Print and Use Your Family Photos

Hang your beautiful family photos on the walls of your home in canvas, metal or frames. Items like album blocks and albums are great gifts for grandparents!

Need a Crested Butte family photographer? Visit Third Eye Photography for beautiful, story-telling images, over 20 years of experience and local expertise.