There's something uniquely magical about summer in Big Sky, Montana. The rolling hills kissed by the golden light of a setting sun, the whispering pines swaying gently in the breeze, and the wildflowers carpeting the meadows in a wash of colors all create the perfect backdrop for capturing precious family memories.

The Wilkes’ family photo session this summer was a heartfelt reminder of the simple joys that bind families together. Along the banks of the sparkling Gallatin River, the laughter of their kiddos was plentiful, mingling with the soft murmur of the water. It felt like a scene from a cherished family movie, one where every frame tells a story of love and togetherness.

The days are long here and the warmth of the sun lingered in the air as the sun set. Sweet Paige kept busy collecting rocks and picking wildflowers while the boys skipped stones across the river. These candid moments are more than just photographs—they are fragments of time, frozen and infused with the essence of summer and childhood.

While my focus is always on the connections and nuances of each family and I firmly believe your backyard is just as good a spot for family photos as anywhere, this Big Sky meadow provided plenty of scenic views as a backdrop and by allowing the kids to lead from start to finish, we were able to freeze both candid moments and capture some portraits that felt honest and reflective of who they are as a family.

As the evening drew to a close, the sky transformed into a canvas of pinks and oranges, blues and grays. The kids chased butterflies and played photographer with my little Instax against this beautiful backdrop, creating timeless images that evoke a deep sense of nostalgia. It's a reminder that while children grow and time marches on, the memories you create together are there forever for you to return to.

If you approach your family photos as nothing more than a couple hours with nothing to do but enjoy each other’s company, your photos can be more than just a series of pictures. They can be a celebration of the love that connects you, a tribute to the beauty of the present moment, and a promise to cherish these fleeting, precious days. These photographs will be treasured, not just as images, but as tangible pieces of our family’s story.

Film Lab: The FIND Lab