There's a version of family photos you've seen a thousand times. Beautiful park. Soft light. Everyone in coordinating neutrals, smiling at the camera. And honestly? Those photos are lovely. I've taken thousands of them and I'm proud of every single one.
But some families aren't park families. Some families are trail families. Camp families. Desert families. Families who spend their weekends at 8,000 feet with a thermos of coffee and muddy boots, and who want their photos to actually look like their life.
That's where adventure sessions come in.
What is an adventure session?
An adventure session is exactly what it sounds like — we go somewhere real, somewhere that means something to your family, and we make photos there. That might mean hiking a trail in the San Gabriel Mountains at sunrise. Setting up camp at Joshua Tree for a golden hour session among the boulders. Driving out to the Mojave and shooting against a landscape that looks like another planet. Or finding a hidden waterfall in the San Bernardino National Forest that most people don't even know exists.
The location isn't a backdrop. It's part of the story.
Why I love shooting this way
I've been hiking and exploring Southern California for years. I know trails that most people — and most photographers — have never set foot on. I know where the light hits the canyon walls at 7am in October. I know which Joshua Tree formations photograph best at sunset. I know the spots you won't find on a "best photo locations" blog post because you have to earn them with your feet.
When I show up to an adventure session, I'm not just a photographer. I'm a guide. I know the location, I know the light, and I know how to help your family move through a landscape naturally so the photos feel alive — not posed.
Who adventure sessions are for
Adventure sessions work best for families who already love the outdoors and want photos that reflect that. Who have older kids (or very adventurous little ones) who can handle a hike. Who want something genuinely different — photos that don't look like anyone else's. Who are willing to wake up early for sunrise light or stay out late for sunset. Who want the location to feel like a character in the photos, not just a background.
They're also perfect for couples — anniversary sessions, engagement-adjacent shoots, or just "we want beautiful photos of the two of us somewhere incredible."
What to expect
Every adventure session starts with a conversation about what your family loves to do and where you love to go. From there I'll suggest locations based on the time of year, the light, and the vibe you're going for. I handle all the logistics — parking, trail access, timing, gear — so you can just show up and enjoy it.
Sessions typically run 2–3 hours and include travel to and from the location. Because we're often shooting in more remote areas, these sessions are priced slightly higher than standard sessions to account for travel and planning time.
Ready to do something different?
If you've ever looked at your family photos and thought "these are beautiful but they don't really look like us" — an adventure session might be exactly what you're looking for. Get in touch and tell me where your family loves to explore. I'll take it from there.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is an adventure family session?
An adventure session takes your family photos somewhere meaningful — a mountain trail, desert boulders, a forest waterfall — rather than a standard park. The location becomes part of your story.
How far will you travel for an adventure session?
I regularly travel throughout Southern California — from Joshua Tree to the San Gabriel Mountains to Big Bear. Travel fees apply for locations more than 30 miles from Rancho Cucamonga.
What should we wear for an adventure session?
Dress comfortably and practically — layers are your friend. Earth tones and neutrals photograph beautifully in natural landscapes. Wear shoes you can actually walk in.
Are adventure sessions good for young kids?
Yes, with some planning. I help choose locations appropriate for your youngest family member. Many beautiful spots are accessible with minimal hiking.
How much do adventure sessions cost?
Adventure sessions start at $450 and vary based on location and travel time. Contact me for a custom quote based on where you want to go.
Related reading
Why I'll hike to your location — adventure photography in Southern California