I'm Brittany — a mom of four, photographer for 17+ years, and someone who's been exactly where you are. I do what I do because I know how fast these days slip by, and I want to make sure you remember every beautiful, chaotic, fleeting moment.
Hi there!
December 12, 2025

You’ve finally booked your outdoor family photo session. Awesome. Now comes the part that tends to send most moms into low-key panic: What the heck is everyone going to wear? What do we need to bring? And how am I supposed to keep a toddler from throwing herself into a lake in the first five minutes?
I see you. I’ve walked that same terrain – both as a mom and behind the lens. The truth is, a little planning goes a really long way. Your family photo session shouldn’t feel like prepping for a runway show that ends in a meltdown. It should feel like what it actually is: a joyful snapshot of your real, beautiful (sometimes loud, often wiggly) life.
One of my favorite all-time sessions involved a mom who totally rocked the prep phase. She shopped her closet first, texted me with outfit combos, trusted the process, and showed up ready for anything – snacks and all. Was it perfectly polished? Nope. But it was stunning. Her toddler wore a white dress that didn’t hit the pavement until we were on location, their outfits blended like magic with the soft mountain light, and their personalities absolutely soared in front of the lens. That’s the goal.
So friend, take a deep breath. You’ve got this – and I’m here to help.
If you’ve ever stood ankle-deep in snow thinking “why did I wear these shoes?” or wrestled a hangry preschooler mid-session, this post is for you.
What most people don’t realize is that North Idaho’s beauty comes with a tiny disclaimer: She’s moody. The light can change from golden to gone in a quick 30 minutes. That lake breeze may not show up when you want it… or it may show up and flip your hair directly into your mouth. The ground often has a challenge waiting for your footwear. And the chaos? It’s usually showing up right on time in the form of a three-year-old with Opinions.
But none of that phases me. This is where I live and work. I know what works (and what doesn’t), and I’m here to help you head into your photo day feeling confident and calm.
Please, for the love of everything, do not put every family member in the same matching plaid. Instead:
I always say: Don’t wear something you’d never wear again. If it feels unnatural, it’ll show. Reach out and ask for help – we’ll design something that feels more “your life but elevated” than “Pinterest board panic.”
Many of my favorite locations require a bit of a walk. It’s not a 5K, but it’s also not a straight sidewalk from the car to the view. Be ready to shift gears:
Bonus tip: If you’ve got a white or light-colored outfit on a little one, wait until we’re on site to dress them fully. Trust me, I learned this trick with my very own wild child.
Every session I’ve done with toddlers has ended in some kind of snack break. Some truths:
Pro tip: If you’re dealing with high-stakes emotions, like a toddler who skipped a nap or a teenager currently pretending they forgot how to smile, snacks + patience + a little humor go far.
In the summer, we have long evening golden hours. In the fall? Not so much. The light changes quickly and the weather can play tricks. Be ready:
Because you’re not here for a mini photo op that disappears into your phone. You’re here to make a memory – a milestone – part of your family legacy.
When we plan intentionally, it shows. In your confidence. In your connection. When your kids freely giggle, and when you finally get that photo with you in it – the one you’ll still love when your toddlers are suddenly taller than you.
And those tiny quirks? Like a popsicle stick clutched in a toddler fist? That thing becomes the heartbeat of the photo. You’ll treasure it.
If you’re dreaming about family portraits that feel like you – full of color, connection, and just a little dirt on the shoes – let’s talk. I walk you through the entire process from outfits to albums.
Reach out today through my contact page and let me know where you’re at. Whether you’re in Coeur d’Alene, Post Falls, or visiting North Idaho for a mountain-lake adventure, I’d love to help you turn your chaos into art you will pass down.
And honestly? Don’t stress about that popsicle stick. It’s going to age beautifully.

As a Premier Coeur d’Alene & Spokane Photographer — Brittany Barb Photography captures maternity, newborn, milestone, senior & family portraits with honesty, beauty & timeless style. With over 10 years of experience, Brittany serves Northern Idaho and Eastern Washington, including Coeur d’Alene, Post Falls, Hayden, Liberty Lake and Spokane.
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As a Premier Coeur d'Alene & Spokane Photographer — Brittany Barb Photography captures maternity, newborn, milestone, senior & family portraits with honesty, beauty & timeless style. With over 10 years of experience, Brittany serves Northern Idaho and Eastern Washington, including Coeur d'Alene, Post Falls, Hayden, Liberty Lake and Spokane.