what does an outdoor session look like?

May 3rd, 2025

What does an outdoor session with Lita Marie Photography in Bottineau, North Dakota look like? I always tell potential clients that my outdoor family sessions are play-based but what exactly does that mean? In my experience, I’ve come to find that most kids (and ahem, husbands) don’t particularly enjoy photo sessions and I’ve tried to make it my goal to change that. And that’s where play-based photo sessions come in!

First, I will attempt to get the a few smiley shots out of the way and then sprinkle them in again through out the session but for the most part, we’re going to have fun! I have a few go to prompts and a couple little games that can usually get some genuine I'm-happy-to-be-here-smiles rolling AND they’re photo worthy as well. It’s really a win/win for everyone.

These little games not only make cute photos but they just help your kids loosen up. It makes them realize they aren’t actually being held hostage and being forced to smile for 30 minutes straight (let’s be real, that’s how they feel lol). Getting this play time in helps their overall mood for the remainder of the session and in addition, gets them to cooperate FOR those smiley photos.

You can, of course, bring their favorite toy or emotional support stuffy but the type of play we will be doing is mainly with each other. I want to not only capture your connection but also the love you share. There will be tickling, smooching, running, walking, holding hands, and about a thousand photos taken (literally) because sometimes, it’s those small millisecond moments that make a frame worthy photo.

And don’t worry, I will still lead you through the session with prompts and light posing. If you, your spouse, or your child seems to be uncomfortable with a certain pose or prompt, I will move on to another. I aim for my family sessions to be fun yet relaxing and the ultimate goal is to get everyone comfortable in front of my camera!