Autumn Colors, Playful Kids, and Mountain Views — South Mesa Trailhead Boulder, Colorado Family Photo Session
A relaxed, natural & fun fall family photo session at South Mesa Trailhead in Boulder, Colorado. Ryan Kost Photography.
It’s hard to beat October in Colorado. The crisp light, golden glow & bluebird skies make for a beautiful backdrop for a relaxed & natural family photo session.
Gretchen reached out to me hoping to celebrate family time together with vibrant photos during this beautiful, yet fleeting time of year. Her previous photographer had to cancel, so she reached out to me and we made sure to schedule right away so we could enjoy the beautiful colors. We decided to meet at South Mesa Trailhead in Boulder, Colorado. One of my favorite Denver area locations for fall family photo sessions.
I specalize in fun! Those real family moments. Not overly curated. More about genuine connection, love & joy.
South Mesa is just a few minutes south of Boulder. The trail offers a wonderful variety from open meadows, rustic fences, cottonwood trees, a rushing stream, and the iconic Flatirons towering in the distance. The trails here are really gentle, wide and well packed down-which is perfect for young children to run around and have room to roam. It’s especially amazing at golden hour (sunrise and sunset).
Right when we met her kiddos were off and running. Gretchen told me her son recently broke his leg on the playground…and even though it was merely a month or so after his injury, he was already running wild and seemingly all healed up. Oh the joys of being a gumby kiddo.
In my family photo sessions, I encourage kids be kids. Run wild. Climb on trees. Skip rocks. Embracing the art of play.
More play. I believe these make for the most heartfelt and genuine family photos. My sessions are equally about the experience.
The conditions were absoluetly perfect. A soft wind, crisp blue skies, the setting sun and an array of fall colors. Their outfit selection was also top tier! Take note if you’re looking for the perfect clothing for a fall family photo session. I’ve also created a step-by-step Colorado seasonal outfit guide to help you prepare for what to wear for your family photo session.
This family nailed it! We spent an hour and a half moving around from place to place making sure to keep the kiddos engaged. Lots of impromptu silly moments, gentle poses and then just letting the fun times play out. We captured some really special images and cherished memories. Moreover, it was a great experience! Often, we simply think about the photos…but the experience is just as important! Presence and invaluable time together celebrating the simple joys. It’s really special.
I love working with families who embrace a bit of spontaneous creativity!
What I focus on during family photo sessions
Simple, natural interactions rather than forced posing. I offer gentle guidance and placement but allow lots of room for spontaneity and just doing as you do!
Capturing the art of play! Play is so imporant. It connects us all and with out children. We let our imaginations run a bit wild, we get silly and we have fun!
Creativing a relaxed environment.
Celebrating th experience. I’m here to capture beautiful photos but the experience is just as important. Oftentimes after our photoshoots, family members will say, “Wow, that was great, I didn’t expect it to be so fun!
Quieter & tender moments. In between all the running around and silliness, I also encourage moments of connection simply taking in the beauty of the natural surroundings with the ones you love most.
Why Choose Me as Your Photographer in Fort Collins / Boulder
Local expertise: I was born to ramble and explore. I’m always out with my own family and pup exploring Colorado and have spent 15+ years exploring every corner of our beautiful state. I also know when there will be the best light, the best backdrops & the best locations that perfectly suit your family.
The full family experience: Over the years, I’ve worked with countless Colorado families. I’m flexible, fun, laid-back, & patient. I customize sessions that feel real, not overly curated. I know when to put the camera down for a few and let the kids simply their energy out, I know how to encourage play and also create space for the quieter moments. It’s a complete experience filled with genuine connection, love & joy.
Client care from start to finish: From location suggestions, to clothing suggestions to pro tips from many years of experience, I’m here for you every step of the way. I’m a big believer in communication & am happy to answer any questions you might have as you plan and prepare for your Colorado family photo session.
High-quality art that belongs on your wall": The end result aren’t just images — their treasured heirlooms of your family story. I will help you order prints and provide professional and reputable companies to work with to get those beautiful family memories on your walls. There’s nothing better than a beautiful family photo you walk by everyday in your home. It’s tangible, it’s not merely a pixel on a screen. It’s a cherished memory
My photos make for wonderful prints to adorn your walls at home with! I’ll help you order high-quality professional photo art.
Here’s what Grechen had to say about her family’s experience working with me:
“Ryan was fantastic to work with! He was incredibly patient with our family, including 2 toddlers.
The experience was so much fun and we couldn’t be happier with the final photos. I would highly recommend!”
If the photos in this gallery below remind you of your family, with a bit of wild and lots of love, then I’d love to chat and set up a relaxed, natural family photoshoot with you!
Click here to book your family photos with me today!
It’s your story as art. Let’s capture a bit of magic!
