Family Session in Missoula, Montana- Ooms Family

There are some sessions that just stick with you—and this one with the Ooms family is definitely one of them. As the winners of my spring family photo giveaway, Luc, Olivia, and their four-month-old baby boy Bennett joined me for the sweetest session to celebrate this new chapter in their lives. It was their very first set of family photos since welcoming Bennett, which made every moment feel even more meaningful.

From the moment we met up, I could feel the warmth and love radiating from this new little trio. The soft spring light, gentle breeze, and the magic of a Missoula day were the perfect backdrop for capturing their joy and connection. This session wasn’t just a giveaway win—it felt like a quiet celebration of family, of fresh starts, and of all the beauty that comes with life’s little milestones.

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A First Family Session Full of Meaning

Bennett was born just four months ago, but already he’s full of personality and expression. Wide-eyed, alert, and calm in his parents’ arms, he was such a joy to photograph. Whether he was looking right into the lens or snuggled into the crook of Olivia’s neck, every photo felt like a little window into this family’s deep bond.

What made this session so powerful was that it marked the first time Luc and Olivia had stepped in front of the camera as a family of three. If you’re a parent, you know how quickly those first few months go—so much of it is a blur of feedings, diaper changes, naps, and adjusting to a whole new rhythm. Taking the time to pause, slow down, and celebrate all you’ve been through together? That’s priceless.

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Missoula in the Spring: A Dreamy Setting for Family Photos

One of the reasons I love being a Missoula family photographer is that our seasons are always offering something new and beautiful. Spring in Montana is especially tender—it’s when everything starts to come alive again. The grass begins to green, the trees are budding, and the air carries that hint of warmth that’s been missing all winter long.

For the Ooms family, spring was more than just a pretty backdrop. It was a reflection of this brand-new chapter: fresh, blooming, and full of potential. The light during their session was soft and golden, and the cool-but-comfortable air let us take our time as we explored and soaked in the moment.

If you’ve been thinking about booking family photos in Missoula, spring might just be the perfect season. It’s ideal for relaxed sessions that feel natural and unhurried—just like this one.

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There’s No Wrong Time to Start Documenting Your Family

One of the questions I get asked a lot as a photographer is: “Did we miss our chance?” Maybe your baby is a little older, maybe life got busy and you didn’t schedule newborn photos, or maybe you’ve just never had professional photos taken as a family. I want you to know—it’s never too late.

Bennett was four months old when we did this session. Not a newborn anymore, but still so tiny and tender. That in-between age—where your baby’s starting to show their personality, but still feels like your little bundle—is so special to capture.

These photos aren’t just about what your baby looks like. They’re about how it feels to hold them, how you instinctively sway to comfort them, how their little hand wraps around your finger. Those memories matter, and I promise they’re worth preserving—whether your baby is four weeks or four months old.

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A Giveaway That Gave Back in More Ways Than One

This spring’s giveaway was something I put together to say thank you to the incredible families who follow my work and support this business. I never could have imagined that it would bring me a session as sweet and heartfelt as the one I had with the Ooms family.

From the moment Olivia reached out to schedule after winning, I could tell this was going to be something special. She shared how much they were looking forward to their first family photos and how meaningful it would be to freeze time during this season. As a photographer, there’s no better feeling than knowing your work will become a part of a family’s story—something they’ll look back on for years.

Luc and Olivia were not only kind and easygoing, but totally in sync as parents. It was beautiful to witness them working together as a team—trading snuggles, calming Bennett, and sharing a few quiet smiles between them. Their connection was genuine and strong, and their love for their baby boy was written all over their faces.

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Family Photography That Feels Natural

One of my goals with every session—especially for families with young kids—is to create a space that feels calm, connected, and completely pressure-free. I don’t need your baby to “perform” or your toddler to sit still. I want to capture your family as you are, in the most beautiful, real way possible.

For the Ooms, this looked like holding Bennett close, talking softly to him, and soaking up the magic of this season. It was less about posed perfection and more about the moments in between—the gentle touches, the little giggles, the quiet sighs of contentment.

If you’re someone who feels nervous in front of the camera or unsure how your kids will do during a photo session, I see you. That’s why I approach every session with flexibility and empathy. We go at your pace. We follow your baby’s lead. And we always—always—make space for real connection.

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Ready for Your Own Family Photos in Missoula?

Whether you’re a brand new parent or your kids are growing up way too fast, it’s never too soon—or too late—to start documenting the life you’re building together.

If this session with the Ooms family reminded me of anything, it’s that even the most ordinary-feeling moments are worth remembering. You don’t need a milestone or a special occasion to take family photos. You just need each other, a little time, and a photographer who’s all in on telling your story with heart.

If you’re interested in booking your own Missoula family photo session, I’d love to connect. I offer lifestyle sessions that feel natural, relaxed, and meaningful—photos that look beautiful on your walls, and feel even better in your heart.