Choosing A Location For Your Bellevue Family Photo Shoot.


You've found your family photographer, paid your session fee and signed your contract. Now it's time to make your vision come to life! How do you choose the right location in Bellevue or the greater Seattle area for your family photo shoot? No matter the location, families are most comfortable and relaxed when photographed with as few onlookers as possible. I don't love a crowd watching as I snuggle my girls and I'm sure you feel the same. I have scouted locations with lots of room to explore and spread out. And like most events, family photos on week-days will be quieter than week-ends. With so many locations to choose from, read below for a few things to consider.

Family posing for portrait in a field of wildflowers in Woodinville on a cloudy summer day.

What vibe do you want?


Everyone gravitates towards a different vibe. I have a location list with mountain, garden, field, river and urban vibes and we can discuss what you're interested in. If you've done a certain vibe before, choose a different one to get some variety into your yearly family photos. One year, you loved tall, grassy fields and documented your child's energy as they zipped through the grasses. Another year, you loved the Pacific Northwest's rocky beaches and photographed your child skipping rocks and balancing on driftwood. There's no right answer...whatever your vision is, let's make it a reality!

Family walking and talking in a field of lupines in Marymoor Park, Redmond.

How convenient is it?


How much do you want to walk? I have locations right next to the parking lot and locations that are up to 15 minutes by foot. When doing an outdoor maternity session, account for the fact you might feel fatigued. With an outdoor newborn session, remember you'll be recovering from labor and delivery. For Bellevue family photo shoots, know that little legs tire easily, especially when nearing bed time. Let's discuss the location that's right for you based on your needs in this season of life! We can make beautiful images at a grassy field that's a one minute walk from the parking lot or at a suspension bridge that's a further trek away!

Family holding hands and walking on the suspension bridge at Bellevue Botanical Garden.

What's the bedtime situation?


Will your child be OK having bed time pushed out? Some older kids are flexible and can tolerate this. Or does your child operate best when they stay on schedule? Some younger children are most smiley when sticking to their normal routine. I try to push bedtimes, especially in the summer in order to get the best light possible! I have a few tips for this but if you need to stick to a schedule, I have a list of locations that work in any lighting situation. What's important is having happy kids that are eager to participate in our family photo shoot!

Father throwing son up into the air at Tanner landing, by the river.

I'll walk you through choosing your location.


Maybe it's a location you love and go to on a weekly basis. Maybe it's a location you've never been to but have always wanted to be photographed at. We can create memories in any location, whether it's a close bike ride away or a longer car drive to get to. What matters is you choose a location you're comfortable with! For some location inspiration, check out the posts here, here and here. Our family photo shoot is a collaboration and I can't wait to work with you!

Parents swinging their son into the air at Seward Park in Seattle at sunset.