Some days it feels like time has folded in on itself. One minute I’m in the thick of toddler chaos, and the next that same toddler is asking for the Wi-Fi password and planning group Halloween costumes with her friends. I had one of those “wait, what?!” moments recently when a cute mom messaged me about scheduling her son’s LDS baptism session. I could’ve sworn we’d just taken his sisters photos… but when I checked, it had been over two years(here’s her session!). Time flies, but let me tell you—this guys personality? That sticks.

We met up at one of my favorite outdoor locations in Grace, Idaho, tucked in the rolling hills of Caribou County. It was stunning. The session started with a few sprinkles (literally 10 seconds worth), but after that, the light, colors, and temperature were absolute perfection. A lot of people assume bright sun makes for the best photos, but what really creates magic is that soft, balanced evening light—especially just before and after sunset. Overcast skies in the evening can be equally dreamy, with flattering, even light that makes everyone look amazing. So if you’re planning your own Great to Be Eight photos or baptism pictures in Southeast Idaho, don’t shy away from an evening session—you’ll thank me later!

Like his sister, this cutie picked out his outfit himself, and I think it’s safe to say his favorite part was… the socks. He wore them proudly and confidently—whether or not they were actually visible. He had poses, ideas, facial expressions, and stories for days! He smiled nonstop, brought his own energy and creativity, and truly embraced every moment. One thing’s for sure: no two photos look the same. His expressions were constantly changing, and every smile was uniquely his.

What stood out just as much as his personality, though, was his heart. He cares deeply about people. While we were swatting away mosquitos (despite my pre-session “mosquito repellent bath”), he pulled out the cutest little repellent stickers and carefully placed one on my chest and another by my shin. At first I was confused, but he and his mom quickly explained—and honestly, I didn’t find a single bite when I got home, even though I’d heard the buzzing all evening.

We laughed our way through the session, and I had such a great time with this dapper guy, his mom, and his aunt. I think we hit our step count for the week with all the exploring and giggling we did. Congratulations, on your upcoming baptism! What a special moment to celebrate with your family, and I feel lucky to have captured it!

XOXOXOXO

— Mikenna Atkinson Photography & Design
Grace, Idaho LDS Baptism Photographer | Great to Be Eight Sessions | Caribou County Outdoor Portraits

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