There is a reason they call it the "Caribbean of the Rockies." If you’ve ever stood on the shores of Bear Lake, you know that the bright turquoise water looks more like a tropical postcard than a lake sitting right on the Utah-Idaho border.
As a travel photographer based just up the road in Soda Springs, I find myself making the drive to Garden City and Fish Haven more often than anywhere else during the summer months. Why? Because there is simply no better backdrop for an extended family session than the sandy shores of Bear Lake.
Recently, I had the pleasure of capturing a young, multi-generational crew on the Utah side of the lake. We’re talking grandparents, siblings, toddlers, and everyone in between. If you’ve ever tried to coordinate toddlers while standing in the sand with the lake right there, you know it can be a "beautiful chaos." But looking back at these gallery highlights, every bit of chaos was worth it.
If you’re planning a family reunion in Bear Lake, Utah or Bear Lake, Idaho this year, here is why you should consider booking a professional family photographer while everyone is in one place.
Why Bear Lake is the Ultimate Family Photo Destination
When families gather from across the country for a reunion, it’s a rare window of time where everyone is together. While iPhone snapshots are great for the "behind-the-scenes" memories, there is something powerful about a professional extended family portrait that captures the legacy of your family.
The Iconic Turquoise Water
The lake's unique color comes from calcium carbonates suspended in the water, and on a sunny day, it rivals any ocean view. As an outdoor family photographer, I love how this natural blue acts as a vibrant yet neutral canvas. Whether we are at North Beach or Rendezvous Beach, that water makes every skin tone pop.
The Space to Breathe
Places like Garden City Park or the private stretches near Ideal Beach Resort offer plenty of room for large groups to spread out. We don't have to worry about being on top of other tourists, which allows the kids to run around and be themselves between shots.
Vacation Mode Energy
Everyone is on vacation mode! The kids have been swimming, the parents have had their raspberry shakes, and that relaxed energy translates perfectly into candid, joyful photos. When people are happy, they look better on camera. It’s science (okay, maybe just photographer-science, but it's true!).
How to Coordinate Your Extended Family Session
I know what you’re thinking: Getting 20 people to look at the camera at once is impossible. Actually, it’s my specialty! As a travel photographer who frequently handles multi-family groups, I have a specific system to keep things moving so the grandparents don't get tired and the kids don't have a meltdown.
Start with the "Big One"
We always start with the full extended family portrait. This is the one that Grandma is going to hang above the fireplace. We get it done early while everyone’s hair is still perfect and the kids are still curious about the lady with the camera.
The Break-Downs
Once the big group shot is in the bag, we break it down into:
Just the grandkids with Grandma and Grandpa
Individual family units (Mom, Dad, and the kids)
The original siblings & spouses (the adult kids together)
Candid cousin crew shots playing by in the sand and water
All girls / All boys
By working in small sprints, nobody is standing around for an hour waiting for their turn.
4 Frequently Asked Questions About Bear Lake Family Sessions
1. What is the best time of day for photos at the lake?
For that iconic blue water, morning sessions (around 9:00 AM) are actually incredible because the sun illuminates the lake's turquoise hue. However, for that soft, flattering "Golden Hour" glow, I recommend starting about 90 minutes before sunset. Keep in mind that summer sunsets at Bear Lake can be as late as 8:30 PM or 9:00 PM!
2. What should we wear for a beach session?
Think cohesive, not matching. For Bear Lake, I always recommend a palette of neutrals, blues, and earth tones. Avoid bright safety orange or neon colors that clash with the water. Flowy dresses and linen shirts look amazing in the lake breeze. And the best part? No shoes required! Barefoot on the sand is the way to go. Check out my [What to Wear Guide] for more inspiration.
3. How do you handle large groups with lots of kids?
I keep things moving with games and prompts. I never ask kids to say cheese because that usually results in some pretty scary-looking fake smiles. Instead, I’ll have them race toward the camera or tell them to whisper a secret to Grandpa. Those genuine laughs are what we’re after.
4. Do we need a permit for photos at Bear Lake State Park?
If we are shooting within the Utah State Park or Idaho State Park boundaries, there are sometimes small entrance fees or commercial permits required. Don’t worry—as your professional family photographer, I handle the boring paperwork so you can just show up and look beautiful.
Planning Your 2026 Bear Lake Reunion?
Whether you are staying at a glamping tent at Conestoga Ranch, a cozy cabin in Fish Haven, or a large rental in Garden City, don’t let your reunion pass by without documenting the people who matter most.
As a Soda Springs based photographer, I know the ins and outs of the Bear Lake Valley. I know which beaches are the quietest, where the light hits the mountains just right, and where to go for the best post-session treats. I’m not just there to take a photo; I’m there to help you celebrate the fact that you’re all together.
[Click here to view my full Family Portfolio] or [Inquire about your Bear Lake session date here!]
Helpful Resources for Your Bear Lake Trip:
Official Bear Lake Valley Convention & Visitors Bureau – Great for finding local events like Raspberry Days.
Utah State Parks: Bear Lake – Info on beach access and boat ramps.
Bridgerland Adventure Park – A fantastic spot for the kids to burn off energy before (or after!) photos.
I only take a limited number of extended family sessions per month during the peak summer season at Bear Lake, so reach out as soon as you know your travel dates!
