The Wild Prairie Journal

Stories from the hearts I’ve photographed, planning guidance for the seasons you’re in, and honest moments worth holding onto.

From Colorado Springs family sessions to mountain elopements, weddings, and couples’ adventures across Colorado, this is where inspiration and real life meet.

Education, Resources Sandy Patterson Education, Resources Sandy Patterson

What to Wear for Couples Photos in Colorado

What to wear for couples photos in Colorado doesn't have to be overwhelming. This complete guide covers outfit ideas for engagement sessions, anniversaries, proposals, and just-because sessions, plus how to coordinate without matching, the best colors for Colorado's mountains, red rocks, and golden fields, and practical tips for shoes, layers, accessories, and weather. Wear something that feels like you, let your connection stay the focus, and the photos will take care of themselves.

Read More
Education, Resources Sandy Patterson Education, Resources Sandy Patterson

What to Wear for Family Photos in Colorado

Figuring out what to wear for family photos doesn't have to be overwhelming. This complete guide covers everything, colors that photograph beautifully, how to coordinate without matching, outfit ideas for moms, dads, kids, and babies, plus Colorado-specific guidance for every season and location. From mountain meadows to red rocks to golden fields, here's how to dress your family so you can stop stressing and just show up.

Read More
Education, Resources Sandy Patterson Education, Resources Sandy Patterson

How to Coordinate Family Photo Outfits That Feel Natural

You don't have to match. In fact, please don't. This guide breaks down how to coordinate your family's outfits so everyone looks connected without looking like a catalog ad. Learn the anchor piece strategy, how to build a palette, why texture and layers matter, and specific guidance for moms, dads, kids, babies, and extended families. Plus realistic tips for busy parents who don't have time to overthink it.

Read More
Education, Resources Sandy Patterson Education, Resources Sandy Patterson

Best Colors to Wear for Colorado Family Photos in Every Season

The colors that photograph beautifully in July aren't the same ones that work in October. This guide breaks down the best color palettes for spring, summer, fall, and winter in Colorado, plus location-specific guidance for mountain meadows, red rocks, golden fields, and snow. Learn which colors pop, which ones disappear, and how to choose a palette that works for your family and your backdrop.

Read More