Extended Family Photos at DC Ranch in North Scottsdale

When I first spoke with The Elliot's, they expressed how meaningful the McDowells are to them and that it was super important they're incorporated in their family photos in some way! I met with Randi a few weeks before our session to explore some possible location options to best feature the McDowells while prioritizing appropriate lighting for the best quality photos. With the McDowells facing to the east, this proved to be a bit more challenging than if they had been facing towards the west. Reason being: for evening sessions, I always shoot west facing in order to back-light my subjects which is imperative to my unique style of lighting, coloring, and editing. This is particularly important when there is minimal open shade available. As members of DC Ranch, Randi suggested a spot just outside of the country club that featured the sprawling mountains while still providing sufficient shade to ensure we accomplish the lighting priorities. This is a great example of using locations that are unique to you and your family for your family photos! Though, of course, this was not included in my location guide, I am always open to photographing at locations that are particularly unique to your family.

I just love the way the Elliot's paired the various shades of blues and how well the blues photographed with the backdrops. Soft blues always photograph so well for extended families as the many shades of blues pair seamlessly while also pairing well with other colors like whites, neutrals, and grays. How many times can I say 'pair' in a sentence? Haha! You get my point ;)

Enjoy a sneak peek of their beautiful gallery below!