Heartwarming family photography in Great Falls, MT

The little moments of childhood don't last forever

There are so many precious moments of childhood--your toddler's mischievous smirk, the 7 year old's gap-toothed grin, or the way your teen’s eyes light up when they talk about something they love. As a mom of six, I know how fleeting these moments can feel.

My sessions are designed to capture the real, everyday magic of your family just being yourselves. You can relax, be playful, and show off your personalities.

Whether it’s a posed shot with everyone together or candid moments of pure joy--from tickle fights to snuggles, big sibling hugs to toddlers running wild--I’ll capture the love and connection that make your family unique.

Mom and three girls kneel on the ground and laugh together at Giant Springs State Park

Two boys in pink shirts hug their toddler brother between them

Family holds hands and stands on bank of Missouri River gazing at fall foliage in Great Falls, MT

Baby and toddler girl look out over their parents' shoulders during Great Falls, MT family photography session

With years of experience as a mom wrangling energetic kids (#boymom of 5 here), plus photographing more than 200 kids of all ages, I have a few tricks up my sleeve for coaxing kids of all ages, from toddlers to teens, into cooperating for photos...and for getting great photos even when they don't. After all, some of the absolute best memories (and photos!) come when kids are just being themselves.

These are the photos that will make you smile every time you see them—real, joyful, and perfectly you.

Creating heartwarming family photos is what I do best!

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Family kneels on path and watches as little boy races away from them down the path

"Valerie took amazing photos of our family! With grown kids and a preschooler, we were all over the place, but she effortlessly coordinated poses, captured candid shots, and captured the fun that is our family. HIGHLY recommend!"

-LeaAnne S.

Here’s what you can expect when you
book a family photo session with me

Mom holds toddler and smiles happily while two boys stand next to her

Relaxed sessions with gentle posing, fun prompts, and playful games to capture your connection, along with natural smiles & expressions
Session prep guide makes getting ready easy for busy moms, with tips on preparing kids for your session & more
Styling tips make outfit selection simple
Complimentary outfit consultation (optional)

Happy family sitting on triangular shaped rock

Ready to make some memories?

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Great Falls family photographer Valerie Smith

I'm a mom of six who started photographing my own kids as a way to preserve the sweet moments in the midst of the chaos of raising my rowdy crew. Now I get to help other families do the same-- capturing those moments of connection, laughter, and love that make your family one of a kind.

With years of experience photographing kids, I've learned a few tricks for getting heartwarming shots no matter what antics your kids might pull. I offer relaxed photo sessions where your family can have fun together and just be yourselves while we create memories & photos you’ll cherish for years to come.

Want to learn more about me? Check out my About page!