One thing I’ve learned after photographing hundreds of families is this: the more relaxed the parents are, the more relaxed their kids will be.
That’s exactly why I loved photographing the Frandsen family.
From the moment we started exploring the rolling hills in Mendon, everyone was easygoing, happy, and simply enjoying being together. Their boys were free to be themselves, and instead of worrying about every little thing, Mom embraced the adventure. Honestly, when parents are okay with boys being boys, everything about the session becomes easier—and the photos almost always turn out better because of it.
As a Mendon family photographer, those are the kinds of evenings I look forward to most.
Why Mendon Is One of My Favorite Family Photo Locations
The rolling hills surrounding Mendon create one of my favorite backdrops in Cache Valley.
The soft grasses, mountain views, and incredible evening light make the scenery feel both dramatic and peaceful without taking attention away from the family.
Every season brings something a little different, but the landscape always photographs beautifully.
It’s one of the reasons I recommend Mendon to families looking for timeless outdoor portraits.
The Secret to Stress-Free Family Photos
Parents often come into sessions worried about whether their children will cooperate.
Here’s my advice:
Don’t expect perfection.
Children are naturally curious. They run. They laugh. They get distracted. They tell silly jokes.
That’s not something we need to fix—it’s something we can photograph.
The Frandsens were such a perfect example of this. Because everyone stayed relaxed and enjoyed the experience, the boys naturally settled into the session, and we created so many genuine moments together.
Sometimes the best family photos happen when everyone stops trying so hard.
Family Sessions Should Feel Fun
I want every family to leave saying, “That was easier than I expected.”
I guide everyone through the session, but I also leave room for spontaneous moments that can’t be planned.
Those little laughs.
The sibling hugs.
The wind blowing through the hills.
The moments where kids simply get to be kids.
Those are often the photographs that become family favorites.
Capturing This Season Before It Changes
Children grow so quickly, and every stage deserves to be remembered exactly as it is.
As a Mendon family photographer, I love helping families preserve those fleeting seasons with photographs that feel joyful, authentic, and timeless.
If you’re considering family photos in Mendon or anywhere in Cache Valley, I’d love to help create a gallery that captures your family’s real personalities while showcasing one of Northern Utah’s most beautiful landscapes.
Kylee is the owner and founder of Kylee Ann Studios, where she’s spent more than 15 years building a photography business rooted in creativity, connection, and serving her clients well. She’s a mom, business owner, and photographer who loves making people feel comfortable and capturing the real moments that make their stories unique.
She specializes in commercial and brand photography, family photography, weddings, seniors, newborns, and more throughout Cache Valley and Northern Utah.
September 5, 2026
Kylee Maughan
