Hartwig Family - December 27, 2025


This location sits at the confluence of the Lapwai Creek and Clearwater River near the Nez Perce National Historic Park. I must admit, I hadn’t been here before, so I arrived feeling a bit unsure of what to expect. I showed up about 45 minutes early to explore the area, walk the trails, and really take it all in—and I was genuinely surprised. Even in its winter dormancy, the location completely showed off its natural beauty. It had been a particularly warm winter, so there was no snow, though it did rain the morning of our shoot, leaving everything feeling fresh and calm. The Lapwai Creek flowing beneath the bridge was especially striking, and the number of juvenile bald eagles soaring overhead was impossible to ignore. It added such a unique and memorable element to the entire experience.


The Hartwig family are dear friends of mine, so when Emma reached out to book a session as a gift for her mom, it was an easy and immediate yes. She chose this location, and I couldn’t have been happier with her decision—it suited them perfectly. The style of the shoot was casual, relaxed, and easygoing, which allowed everyone to feel comfortable and truly be themselves. Photographing a large family like this is always such a joy; there are so many personalities blending together, laughter echoing across the river, and such a genuine sense of connection throughout. Those candid, in-between moments are always my favorite. I even managed to get the guys to skip for a few photos, which brought so much energy and fun to the session!


I’ll report back after a spring session, but for now, I can confidently say this spot is ideal for a fall or winter shoot. The landscape is wide open, the highway is completely out of sight, and the surrounding mountains make it feel like a true hidden gem. Even in December, the colors were surprisingly vibrant, and I found myself doing very minimal editing on this gallery. I will absolutely be returning to this location—perhaps next time for a couple or engagement session, or even another family gathering.

Group of friends walking together arm in arm on a wet road lined with bare winter trees.
Young family with baby posing on a wooden bridge outdoors in winter, wearing casual flannel and beanies.
A woman smiles joyfully as two young men kiss her cheeks in a scenic outdoor field with hills behind.
Six men of varying ages pose outdoors for a family portrait, with one holding a baby in a brown sherpa outfit.
Group of young men hiking on a green trail path with rolling hills and bare trees in background.
A happy family of six poses together smiling in a scenic outdoor field with rolling hills in the background.
Two people walk arm in arm down a path surrounded by autumn trees and golden grass in a park.
A group of ten people walk together on a path surrounded by autumn foliage and rolling hills.
Two women in autumn coats embrace outdoors, smiling warmly in a natural setting on a cloudy day.
Two people watch a group walking away on a wet rainy road surrounded by dormant winter trees.