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Whether you’re vacationing in Portland or a local parent in need of a break, a trip to one of the many spas in Portland is a must-do! A massage or other wellness service at a day spa can be an excellent opportunity to unwind and relax. If you’re pregnant, many of the spas offer prenatal […]

family of three light and airy family portrait

There are some things that just scream “spring.” Wildflowers. Cherry blossoms. Pastel tones. Lush gardens just beginning to bloom. Lucky for us, Oregon’s climate gives us these things in spades. If you’re looking for the best place for your spring family pictures in Portland, read on for my favorite hidden gems.   Gardens for Portland […]

family of four standing in a flower field by vancouver wa photographer samantha shannon

While it might be the first thing most potential clients ask, “how much do family photos cost?” isn’t the only question you should ask in your search for a photographer. In fact, it’s even more important to consider the value, your experience, and your final products. By asking these four questions before hiring a family […]

We’re smack in the middle of Portland’s cold, rainy season, which means the kids are itching to get out and burn off some energy. What to do? When your kids need more than a living room fort or Legos can offer, head to one of Portland’s indoor playgrounds! I’ve rounded up the top 8 indoor […]

portland indoor playgrounds to visit in 2023

Learning how to use my camera in manual mode was the single most impactful thing I ever did for my photography career. The great thing about digital cameras is that you can test out different things and immediately see the results: so why not? When you take your camera off of auto, you’re the one […]

Kelvin white balance cheat sheet

Welcome to part two of my series on my favorite places to see flowers in Oregon! Today I’m sharing the best flower fields near Portland: farms, gardens, and festivals all make up some of my favorite floral adventures in the PNW. If you’d like a more natural approach, head over to my last post on […]

family at a lavender field, a best location for family photos in portland oregon

I don’t know about you, but once the dark winter days start to turn into spring, I’m ready for some outdoor adventures. At the top of my list? The best places to see wildflowers near Portland! If you have dreams of wandering meadows and wildflower fields near Portland, read on for my favorite hidden gems. […]

two girls hug at a sisters photoshoot

In parenting, there’s a whole lot of in-between moments.  Sure, there are the recitals, the big games, the annual family photo sessions.  But in-between?  Thousands of little magical moments of childhood are unfolding in your home every day. Goofy, adorable little things they’ll do for a week before moving on and then never again.  I’d […]

Girl in lavender field - Milestone photographer in Portland

When is the best time for maternity photos? Whether you’ve landed here because you’re wondering when is too early for maternity photos (or too late!) or if you’re just looking for maternity photo ideas, the first step is figuring out when to take maternity photos during your pregnancy. Generally speaking, photographers recommend taking your maternity […]

spring family pictures in the wildflowers at the columbia river gorge

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@samanthashannonphotography