Chelsa Jay | Alaska Family Photographer
When Alaska shifts seasons, it creates the most magical backdrop for any kind of photo session — and with the Chambers family, we fully embraced that moody autumn vibe. One stunning mama, a handsome dad, and their cutie kiddo who posed and played like a pro. This sweet trio brought fall-in-the-mountains energy to life, creating timeless family memories in one of Alaska’s dreamiest locations, making it an ideal Alaska family session.
FALL = MOODY
Autumn in Alaska is naturally moody (in the best way), which makes it one of my favorite times for family sessions. I always encourage families to lean into that cozy, earthy color palette with their wardrobe — like deep reds, warm greys, browns, and muted neutrals that pop without clashing with the landscape. When planning for an Alaska family session, this color palette contributes to stunning photos.
The Chambers family absolutely nailed the fall aesthetic. Mom wore a dark red dress that flowed beautifully in the wind, letting hints of golden grass peek through. Leather, cotton, and textured layers added depth without distraction. It was classy, timeless, and the perfect fit for a family photoshoot in the Alaskan mountains.
WE ARE IN ALASKA, AFTER ALL
Even with the best planning, Alaska has a way of surprising you — and that’s half the adventure! We scheduled this session for early September, thinking we’d get those rich fall tones. What we didn’t expect? Snow on the surrounding peaks. Classic Alaska setting for an unforgettable family session.
Thankfully, we lucked out. The snow had dusted only the distant mountains, giving us an epic contrast between autumn warmth and winter’s edge. While it was definitely chilly, the Chambers crew embraced it — and the resulting photos feel bold, crisp, and authentically Alaskan with a perfect Alaska family vibe.
WHAT YOU GET WITH A FAMILY SESSION
These aren’t your typical stiff, studio portraits. My Alaska family photography sessions are about connection, movement, and capturing your family being yourselves. With the Chambers, we took a short hike, played, laughed, and let the landscape guide us through a memorable Alaska family session.
I shoot every family session like a mix between lifestyle and editorial — full family shots, sweet couple moments, individual portraits, and all the natural in-between magic. Whether you’ve got one kiddo or a whole squad, I make space for everyone to shine.
LET’S TALK KIDS
Kids grow fast. Like, blink-and-it’s-a-new-phase fast. That’s why capturing them as they really are — playing, laughing, exploring — is so important. Outdoor family sessions like this let their personalities come through with the special touch that an Alaska family session offers.
In this particular session, we captured mom and dad each with their son, posed and candid. Whether you have one child or five, I’ll work with you to make sure each one gets their own moment in the spotlight during an Alaska family gathering.
DON’T FORGET THE PARENTS
As someone who also photographs Alaska weddings, elopements, and couples sessions, I love surprising parents with a mini couples shoot during a family session. After all, your relationship is the heart of the family, even during an Alaska family photo session.
During the Chambers session, I gave mom and dad their own quiet moment to reconnect — just like I would during an elopement. These little breakaway moments add so much meaning to the final gallery, showing your love in every form: romantic, parental, and everything in between.
CHELSA JAY | ALASKA FAMILY PHOTOGRAPHER
If this has you rethinking what a family session could look like, I’m your girl. As an Alaska family photographer, I’m here to help you capture more than just a photo — I want to tell your story, like in our unforgettable Alaska family sessions. Bring your personality, your style, and I’ll help you pick a time and place that makes your session shine.
Whether it’s autumn in the mountains, wildflower season, or snowy winter magic, I’d love to photograph your family’s next adventure.
Click [here] to learn more or reach out with your ideas — I can’t wait to hear from you.
