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 ;)

Why Motherhood Sessions Are the Sweetest Gift—For You, Mama

Let’s be honest—how many photos do you have of your little ones without you in them? As moms, we’re often the memory keepers. We’re snapping the candids, taking the birthday videos, and catching those “blink and you’ll miss it” toddler moments. But you deserve to be in the story too.

That’s where motherhood sessions come in—and trust me, they’re pure magic.

Recently, I had the sweetest session with a mom and her two toddler daughters at The White Space. The girls twirled in their dresses, giggled in their mama’s arms, and snuggled close.. The session was short and sweet—just the right pace for little ones (and busy mamas!). No pressure, no stiff posing. Just real moments, genuine smiles, and the love only a mother and her babies share.

These sessions aren’t about being perfect—they’re about being present.

They’re for the mama who’s always behind the camera.
For the mama who wants just one beautiful photo with her babies that she can treasure forever.
For the mama who’s doing all the things—and deserves to feel seen and celebrated.

And let’s not forget: these images become keepsakes. Not just for you, but for your children too. One day, they’ll look back and see how deeply they were loved.

So if you’ve been waiting for the “perfect time” to finally get in front of the lens, consider this your sign. A motherhood session is the most meaningful way to say: “I was there. I loved you with my whole heart. And I want to remember it forever.”

Ready to make some magic? Let’s plan a session that feels just like you—cozy, playful, beautiful, and full of heart. These can be scheduled all year long, not only around Mother’s Day.

Alyssa is a newborn and family lifestyle photographer in Las Vegas, NV. As a former news anchor and elementary school teacher, she combines storytelling and love of kiddos to bring your family portraits to life.

Las Vegas Family Photography- Yes, It’s 110 Degrees, But Let’s Have a Session- Alyssa Charboneau Photography

You read right. There are so many reasons to have a family session, in the heat of a Las Vegas summer, and I’m not crazy. Actually, I prefer to do my own family’s sessions in the summer.

First of all, let’s address the big sweaty elephant. The temperature. Let’s do an inside session!! Your home is where your memories are made and where you’ll back in pictures and remember raising your kiddos. These sessions are not just for newborn sessions. In-home sessions are really so special and intimate. Added bonus, I come to you! No need to drive across town, trying not to wrinkle outfits, stuck in traffic, etc. We’ve all been there. And yes, my family is that family that is always running late, forgetting my lip gloss, screaming at kids to hurry and buckle up. 🤦🏻‍♀️ So in-home is just so much more relaxed, not rushed, and AIR CONDITIONED!!! Click HERE for a blog post featuring an in-home session.

Studio sessions are also an option. I love this option, and have done studio sessions with my own family. A nice, crisp white background, a pop of color with furniture, lends to a classic yet modern twist on a family session. These are perfect for mini sessions, milestones, and childhood personality sessions. Also, AIR CONDITIONED!! I love to use The Gathering Place for studio sessions here in Las Vegas.

Second, you will beat the craziness of fall. Think about it, kids go back to school, sports schedules are insane, throw in dance, gymnastics, theatre, whatever your kiddos have going on. Do you really want to cram a photo session in there too? Just make sure it’s not during a Raiders game, right? So right now, kiddos are home, maybe you can schedule a weekday session, and keep those fall weekends as open as possible. Then when everyone else is rushing to find a last minute photographer and print cards, you can sit back and give yourself a pat on the back.

Third, it’s a money saver! You can take advantage of early bird sales on card printing websites. If you are wanting to frame wall art as well, summer is a great time for sales. I know a lot of photographers will offer incentives on summer sessions as well because it is typically a slower season. Also, photographers tend to increase prices for the fall season, simply because demand is so high. This is kind of a no brainer. I prefer Minted for my Christmas cards.

Fourth and last, the style of your session. This is a huge reason I love summer sessions. Personally, I don’t want to frame a photo of my family in sweaters and boots. We are spring and summer people and I want our style to reflect that. I love summer dresses (like I have a major problem with buying summer dresses), cute sandals, and bright colors. This fits our personality and our style. Are you wanting to have a more winter or fall feel for Christmas cards? Then schedule a mini with your photographer. However, when it comes to framing wall art that will hang for years to come, I want a timeless style that suits our personalities.

There you have it! Why I love summer sessions as a mom and as a photographer. So take a look at your calendar, check in with your photographer (or me 😉) and don’t sweat your families photography session. Get it?!?!

Need wardrobe inspiration? Click HERE.

Milestone Sessions…I Love These and You Should Too.

I love to photograph ALL the newborns and kiddos, but if I had to pick a favorite session, I think they may be milestone session. First, let's define milestone sessions...traditionally, they are when babies can sit (6 months-isH), when they can crawl (9 months-ish), first birthday, and every birthday after! (Because why not?)

As mamas, we know that our littles are constantly changing, and we are there to document it all with cell phone in hand! But let's be honest, cell phone images just don't always cut it. That is why I totally recommend milestone sessions for mamas with babies and toddlers. As a mom of three and a photographer, I just love these sessions! So I present to you, 'Five Reasons Milestone Sessions are my Favorite!'

Milestone sessions are short and sweet. Like 20-30 minutes short. Just enough time to capture the cuteness before little one is over me and my camera, and my singing.

Milestone sessions are FUN!! Like I said before, I will sing all the Encanto songs, dance, imitate Donald Duck, and do whatever else to make your little one laugh and smile. Is your kiddo more on the quiet side? No problem. I will let them warm up to me and the camera. Each child is different and some love all the attention, and others shy away from it. As a former Kinder teacher, I am pretty good at tailoring the environment to suite your individual child.

Also, these sessions are soooo simple! You don't have to coordinate a family in outfits (which is WORK!) It is simply about your little one. A sweet outfit or two, beautiful light, and those sweet smiles and quirks- that's all we need! My goal is to document who your little person is at this moment. If your babe needs to have Mickey by their side the whole time like Irene in these images, then great! My daughter insisted on having Moana while she was a flower girl in the wedding portraits, and I loved it! (the bride did too, I think?) But it tells a story and it is real.

Milestone session are affordable! With session times being shorter, and it centering around your sweet little boy or girl, there is just not a ton of work with these sessions. Therefore there is not a lot of investment required. Simple as that.

There you have it, why I just love milestone photography sessions. Whether you contact me to document your child's baby and toddler years, or another Las Vegas family photographer, these will be some of the sweetest portraits to look back on for years to come!

Do you know someone who has a little one that you think would love to have a photography session like this? Then copy the link below and pass it on! ☺️

What to Expect at your Newborn Session

Not sure a newborn session is right for you? Here is what you need to know about newborn sessions and why you should schedule one for your family.

Nearly nine years ago, I was a second grade teacher living in San Antonio, TX. I was completely new to all things baby. So the morning of my daughter's newborn pictures was hectic to say the least. (sound familiar?) Besides trying to work around feedings and naps, I had so many worries. Would my baby sleep? Would she scream and cry the whole time? Would she pee or poop on the photographer or her blankets? Also, what do I wear? Will still look like I’m pregnant? Will my boobs leak? All. The. Worries. Well, in the end, baby slept, and stopped to eat, she did pee on a blanket, and my boobs did not leak. Success.

Now, after five years of shooting newborns, I’ve learned a thing or two or 2,907 things. As a photographer, my sessions are designed to be as easy as possible, and dare I say even fun!! Here are the five things you can expect at your newborn session.

1. I will come to you!! Yes, I shoot most of my newborn sessions at the client’s home. Your home is your happy place. It is comfortable, it is relaxed, it is familiar, and it is where you are making these most beautiful memories with your new babe. The rocking chair where you rock baby for countless hours and nights, that should be documented. The living room, where you first brought baby home, sat down, and said, “Now what do we do?” That should be documented. The baby laying in your pristinely decorated crib, that should be documented. And family pups sniffing new baby’s toes on parent’s bed, that should also be documented. These are the reasons I love to photograph baby at home. It’s all about connections and real life.

2. You will want to look back years later at your home, baby’s nursery, all the details. Your home does not have to be a magazine worthy home. TRUST ME! I will find the best room, the best nook, and the best window with beautiful light. Luckily, we live in Las Vegas, where sunshine is in abundance and most homes are filled with natural light.

3. If you have older kiddos, they will try to take the spotlight, and that is just fine! Yes, we are documenting baby, but part of that is this chapter of your family. That includes big brothers or sisters, and I guarantee that they will get a little special attention too!

4. Baby runs the show. This is their first photoshoot after all. We stop for eating, diaper changing, fussiness, anything that we need to. Honestly, I don’t think I’ve ever had a session that we didn’t need to stop so baby could eat. That’s their job so I will always pause a session for a hungry baby.

5. You will be PREPARED, because I will prepare you. Before your session, you will receive a prep guide that will go way in depth with what to expect and other aspects on how to make the session run smoother. Just know, your baby will probably get hungry, will pee and poop during the session, and may even throw up on me…trust me, they ALL do! 

Overall, newborn session days can be the most stressful and tiring days. I am here to ease your nerves and give you a few less things to worry about. Your job is to snuggle your sweet baby and simply let me document this time in your life. Short and sweet.

Do you know of an expecting mom that may want to read this? Feel to forward this post!!