Custer Family Photos at Stockade Lake

Fall in the Black Hills is already magic, but this Custer State Park family session at Stockade Lake felt especially sweet. Overcast skies gave us soft, even light that worked like a natural lightbox. Paired with cozy red plaid outfits, tall golden grasses, and two kids with big personalities, it made the perfect setting for a playful, lighthearted family gallery.

Meet Ally, Brian, Amelia, and Isaiah

This session was extra special because Ally is my cousin, and photographing her family always feels like time well spent. Amelia and Isaiah came ready with ideas of their own, which is my favorite kind of energy for family photos.

Amelia wanted a photo of her giving Isaiah a piggyback ride. Getting him onto her back was its own hilarious little adventure, but once Ally stepped in to help, the shot turned out adorable. Meanwhile, Isaiah immediately spotted the rock wall and announced that he needed a photo on top of it. His confidence and excitement made it one of my favorite candid moments.

Their sibling dynamic was goofy, energetic, and fun to witness. When kids come in with their own creative direction, it always leads to some of the most genuine shots.

Stockade Lake – A Perfect Setting for Fall Family Photos

If you’re dreaming of Custer State Park family photos, Stockade Lake is such a gem. It offers everything in one walkable area: textured pines, shoreline, fallen trees, boulders, tall grasses, and plenty of spots for personality-filled portraits.

We easily stayed within a quarter mile of the same area, wandering just enough to keep things fun without tiring out the kids. The overcast light brought out the reds in their plaid beautifully against the neutral fall landscape.

The whole family even climbed up a fallen tree wedged between several others, creating a fun, unexpected moment that added so much personality to their gallery.

Why Plaid Worked Perfectly for a Forest Setting

Their choice to wear variations of red plaid was perfect for this location. It looked festive for their Christmas card while still complementing the golden grasses and natural textures around Stockade Lake.

If you’re planning your own Custer State Park family session, here’s a quick outfit tip based on this one:

• Plaid photographs beautifully in neutral, earth-toned environments
• Plaid can feel too Christmas-themed on bright green manicured lawns

Choosing outfits based on your location helps ensure your photos feel timeless, no matter when you use them.

Playful Poses for Christmas Card Photos

Christmas card sessions usually lean more posed, but I always include a few movement-based prompts to bring out natural laughter. With Amelia and Isaiah, it happened effortlessly. Having them hold hands and walk together quickly turned into playful tugging, stumbling, and laughing. It’s the perfect setup for candid photos that feel real.

We combined classic Christmas card portraits with kid-led ideas, natural interactions, and moments of genuine connection. The gallery feels true to their family: loving, silly, and full of personality.

Planning Your Own Custer State Park Family Session

If you’re dreaming of Custer State Park family photos, Stockade Lake is a beautiful, easy-access spot that works well year-round. Fall brings especially soft light and rich tones, and even an overcast day creates flattering, even light on every skin type.

Whether you’re planning a holiday card session or simply updating family photos, Custer State Park offers scenery that feels both iconic and personal.

Bringing It All Together

This Stockade Lake session was the perfect blend of fall color, family connection, and playful moments. I left feeling grateful for the time with Ally and her crew, and even more excited for the next time they reach out for updated photos. Sessions like this are a reminder of how fun and natural family photography can be when everyone leans into the moment.

If you’re dreaming of your own session in the Black Hills, I’d love to help you plan something relaxed, meaningful, and perfectly suited to your family.

Ready to book? Reach out through my contact page and let’s start planning.