Rustic Southern Utah Family Photography Session with Horses + Mountain Views

As a Southern Utah Family Photographer, there’s nothing I love more than helping families create photo sessions that truly reflect their personalities, lifestyles, and vision. From choosing a location that feels like home to styling outfits that match the rustic western vibe – every detail matters. This session with the beautiful Hughes Family is a perfect example, and I’m sharing a few tips (plus their gorgeous photos) to help you plan your own meaningful shoot.

6 kids. 8 horses. 1 beautiful & meaningful location.

If you want to take your family pictures to the next level, choose somewhere that means something to you. Somewhere that feels like home. When your session takes place in spot that you know and love, it’s easier to relax and be yourself. The kids already know the lay of the land. There’s less pressure to “perform” in a new place. And the photos end up feeling more like you.

Here in Southern Utah between St. George and Cedar City, we are lucky enough to have the mountains as our backyard.

This family chose a location that was unique and special to them. With beautiful green fields surrounded by sage brush, rolling hills and cedar trees, it was the perfect backdrop for this western styled family photography session.

Another way to make your family pictures special? Bring your pets!

They’re part of the family too and you will never regret taking more photos with them.

Pets naturally bring out genuine smiles, laughter, and affection. Their presence helps everyone – especially kids – relax and be themselves, resulting in authentic, candid moments. So bring the dog (or a herd of horses) and let’s capture the whole family.

Why Outfits Matter in Family Photography – and how to Coordinate (Not Match)

Do you want western and rustic style family photos? We’ve talked about location and we’ve talked about horses… Let’s talk about another key part in bringing your vision to life.

When it comes to creating beautiful, timeless family photos, one of the most overlooked (but impactful) elements is what you wear. Your outfits help tell your story, set the tone, and create the overall vibe of your images. Whether you’re shooting in the red rocks of Southern Utah or a rustic field with horses, the right clothing can elevate your session from “nice” to absolutely stunning.

Instead of matching, think about coordinating colors, textures, and styles. Choose a color palette with 3-4 complimentary tones and let each family member wear something different within the palette. This approach feels more natural and allows each person’s personality to shine, while still looking connected as a group.

Another way to add in some rustic charm? Wood.

When I think of rustic, I think of wood – aged corals, weathered fences, sun-bleached barns. This old corral was the perfect setting for the kids individual portraits and matched perfectly with the western and rustic feel of the session.

Final Thoughts…

At the end of the day, the most meaningful photos aren’t about the perfect poses or Pinterest-worthy locations – they’re about what feels like home to you. That might be a quiet mountain trail, a weathered corral, or a wide open space where your horses can just be. When you bring your animals, wear clothes that feel true to your style, and choose a location that reflects your story – that’s when the magic happens.

These are the kind of sessions I love the most…. laid-back, honest, and full of connection. If that sounds like what you’re dreaming of too, let’s plan something that feels like you. Reach out anytime – I’d love to help you bring your vision to life.

Thanks for being here – I can’t wait to help you document your family’s unique and beautiful story.

–Tana

Let’s connect!

• Instagram
• Facebook
• Pinterest

http://www.tanaclarkphotography.com

Tana Clark is a Southern Utah Family, Maternity and Wedding Photographer serving Cedar City, Utah, St. George, Utah, Mesquite, Nevada, Las Vegas, Nevada and surrounding areas.