More predictable weather, longer days, and less busy schedules makes summer family photography a favorite for many families I photograph around Seattle.
As you begin to plan your summer family photography session, one common question is where should we have your session? I’m sharing my top locations below.
Before we dive into the where, there are a few important details.
For all of my summer family photography locations I’m hoping for a few things that will add to the family session.
The first is variety. I want a location where, without having to hike too far, I can get several different looks for one session. A small walk is okay, because it helps to break up the session for kids (and dads, too). The walk to the next spot is a great time to get to know each family a little more. However, I don’t want too long of a distance that kids get tired and cranky either.
Another thing I look for is pretty light and ways to filter sunlight. I know that families with young kids can’t always do a summer sunset session. A wide open field for a 5pm shoot during the summer isn’t going to work well. So I make sure there are spots with trees or buildings that we can filter that light .
The last two things I look for in Seattle area summer family photography locations are locations that aren’t crowded, yet offer something to do. The Pacific Northwest is amazing. There are plenty bodies of water where we can throw rocks, trails we can explore, or even trains we can visit.
So what are my favorite summer family photography session locations?!
Luther Burbank Park on Mercer Island is a gorgeous location for summer family photography.
This is a favorite location for families who live on the Eastside or in Seattle. Luther Burbank Park is a large park with plenty of variety. Because it is situated on a hill, there are several beautiful spots to filter sunlight. This allows for families with smaller children who cannot stay up late for the 7pm summer photography sessions to still have photos in summer.
Mount Si lovers appreciate the Meadowbrook Interpretive Center for photos.
Okay, so this place is mostly a big open field. BUT….during the summer the foliage that covers the entrance to the center is so beautiful. There is often an area of tall grass along the tree line and a little boardwalk not too far from the center.
Weekends can be booked for weddings. However, with later sunsets, an after work summer family photography session works beautifully.
Let’s not forget the important detail that Meadowbrook faces Mount Si. If the thought of this Snoqualmie Valley landmark excites you, this is the summer family photography location for you.
Tanner Landing Park is a favorite summer family photography location.
This park is one of the most selected locations by families I photograph. It has everything I look for in a location. There is plenty of variety. There is a long grass field, an open field, a wooden fenced area, wooded trails, and the river. Even more, the light is gorgeous and hardly anyone is ever there. It is the perfect location for making art in the form of your summer family photography session, worthy of hanging on your walls.
Learn more on Tanner Landing Park and why it is a favorite Seattle area location year-round.
If you’re more of an adventurous family, Gold Creek Pond is worth the short drive to the mountains for photos.
One of the reasons to love the Seattle area is that you can have rivers, mountains, and lakes, all within a short drive from the city. Gold Creek Pond is a family friendly location for families who want a stunning backdrop without the hours drive down south to Rainier.
Gold Creek Pond is more than the stunning mountain view next to the pond. While that is the most common photo you will see, there is a flowing river nearby, trees, and gorgeous wildflowers in the summer months. This location can get crowded during the busier fall season, I personally, prefer to bring families in summer to take advantage of the beauty the park offers.
While this list is in no way a comprehensive list of summer family photography locations, it includes the most popular spots.
There you have it. My top 4 Seattle area, summer family photography session locations. Do you see a spot you’d love your family photos taken this year? Contact me to secure your summer date.
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