Let Them Run Wild: Why the Best Family Photos Aren’t Posed

Gilcrease Orchard Family Photography in Las Vegas

If you’ve ever found yourself stressing your kids behavior during family pictures,, or wondering if you’ll get even one decent photo (almost every single parent will tell me that!) —take a deep breath. You’re not alone. As a Las Vegas family photographer, I’ve heard it all. “My kids won’t sit still.” “They never smile for pictures.” “We’re a little wild.”

Here’s the good news: that’s exactly what I love.

Family sessions—whether at home, in a studio, or outdoors—aren’t about being perfect. They’re about capturing your family as you are, right now, in this beautifully chaotic season of life. And places like Gilcrease Orchard offer the perfect setting for that.

Why Gilcrease Orchard Is So Ideal

Tucked away in the northwest part of Las Vegas, Gilcrease Orchard is a hidden gem for family photography. With rows of trees, soft golden light, and plenty of open space to roam, it’s a natural playground for kids. Also, when you book a session there, you get private access to the orchards. That means not only do you get family pictures, but you get to have the place to yourself, to walk around, check out chickens, and whatever else is growing there!

This is the third time I have photographed this super fun family! And from the moment we arrived, the kids took off running, laughing, and chasing each other between the trees. Mom looked over at me a little nervously and said, “They’re kind of wild.”

But here’s the thing: that’s the magic.

Real Moments > Perfect Poses

I will never ask your kids to stop what they’re doing, stand stiffly, and “say cheese.” That’s not how I work, and that’s not what creates meaningful images.

I want your kids to run, play, explore, and be themselves. I want to photograph them running races, looking for lady bugs,, giving you spontaneous hugs, and letting their personalities shine through.

That’s when the real smiles show up.
That’s when your gallery feels like your family—not a Pinterest version of it.

And as for you, parents? I want you to let go too. Let go of the stress, the pressure to control everything, the worry about how your kids are “acting.” Your only job is to love on them. Be present. Laugh with them. Hold their hand. That’s what you’ll want to remember anyway.

The Beauty of Outdoor Family Sessions

Outdoor sessions like this one are especially great for families with older toddlers and school-aged kids because they don’t feel confined. There’s room to move, stretch, and be playful.

And as a natural light photographer, I time sessions for the dreamiest golden hour light—so even when the kids are running wild, it all looks like a sun-drenched memory. ✨

At Gilcrease Orchard, we get all the variety we need— rows of trees, open skies, chickens, and seasonal touches depending on the time of year. Whether it's sunflower season, fall pumpkins, or spring blooms, the setting adds to the storytelling.

What to Expect at Your Family Session

If you're a busy mom trying to do it all, here’s what I want you to know about sessions with me:

• You don’t need to prep your kids. Just tell them we’re going to the orchard to have fun and explore.

• You don’t need to bribe anyone. (Though I’m not above a post-session donut run!)

• You don’t need to worry about “posing.” I’ll guide you with gentle prompts so nothing feels forced or awkward.

We’ll take a walk. We’ll let the kids lead. We’ll pause for snuggles when the moment feels right. And before you know it, you’ll be looking at a gallery filled with genuine connection—no cheese-smiles required.

A Note for the Moms

I see you. You’re behind the camera more often than not. You’re the one organizing schedules, picking outfits, and making sure everyone else is smiling.

But this is your reminder: you deserve to be in the frame, too.

You deserve photos where your kids are wrapping their arms around you, where your smile is real, and where the love you pour out every day is captured forever.

These are the photos your kids will look back on and treasure—not because they were perfect, but because you were in them.

Ready to Run Free?

If you’re looking for a Las Vegas family photographer who welcomes wild hearts and muddy shoes, I’d love to work with you. Outdoor sessions at Gilcrease Orchard are available seasonally and tend to book up quickly, especially in the spring and fall.

Let’s create something real together—something your family will hold onto for years.

Click here to inquire about upcoming availability or send me a message to chat more about your dream session.

Alyssa is a lifestyle newborn and family photographer serving in and around Las Vegas, NV. She’s also happy to hop on a plane for family travel sessions ;)