Lavender Field Photoshoot in Portland

I’ve just wrapped up my first round of Lavender Mini Sessions, and let me tell you, I’m in love. The rows of lavender, the dreamy light, the pastel tones…this is the stuff dreams are made of! There’s one more round of lavender mini sessions next week, plus a few full sessions. If you’re thinking about your own lavender field photoshoot, I have a few tips for you as you prepare. Let’s get into it!

Preparing for a Lavender Field Photoshoot

What to Wear for a Lavender Field Photoshoot

For light and airy photos in a lavender field, (and let’s be real, any sessions at all) I really adore pastel colors! Light pinks and baby blues especially photograph so well next to the lavender. With the type of lavender I photograph at Wayward Winds Lavender Farm, any soft and cool colors will look really nice! Whites and creams will also look so pretty and timeless.

Be Ready to See Bumblebees

Bumblebees are almost always found buzzing around the lavender, and as long as we leave them alone they are generally harmless. If your child is anxious around insects, assure them beforehand that these are not the same types of bees that sting. They’re just helping the lavender! A visit to a lavender farm before your session might be a great way to introduce this idea, so that they aren’t upset or anxious around bumblebees during the session. If all else fails, the kids can always go up in your arms, away from the lavender.

When Is the Best Time for Family Photos at the Lavender Field?

Lavender season varies some with the weather that year, but generally family photos at the lavender field will take place during the month of July. Lavender mini sessions are released first to the mailing list in late spring. You may book full sessions at the lavender field with advance notice to allow time to book our space at the field. Lavender field photoshoots take place in the evening only, around 8pm. This can be challenging for small children, so consider a later bedtime the night before to prepare for staying up later.

During Your Lavender Field Photoshoot

Please do not pick the lavender unless you’re planning to make a u-pick purchase. We will be able to have plenty of lavender in your photos without having to pick any.

Be ready to hold small children when we are in the fields so that we can see them. Lavender bushes are tall when they’re in bloom! Alternatively, we may stay in front of the lavender, especially for extended family sessions with a lot of people.

Exploring More Lavender Fields After Your Photo Session

Newberg Lavender Festival

The Willamette Valley has so much to enjoy during lavender season! Make a day of it and visit a few farms, or take some time during the month of July to enjoy the Willamette Valley Lavender Festival in Newberg. I always love to pick up a few bars of handmade lavender soap during the festival and check out the Plein Air Art Show.

Wayward Winds Lavender Farm

I’m so grateful to Wayward Winds Lavender Farm in Newberg for being a fantastic host for our lavender fields photoshoots. They’re an excellent place to visit during lavender season and they host a number of lavender events like wreath making classes, sensory classes for kids, and botanical paint & sips. Such a fun place to spend a summer day!

How to book a Lavender Field Photoshoot

If you’re hoping for a lavender mini session, make sure you’re on my mailing list. Dates open there first, and mini sessions go fast! If there are any left after the mailing list subscribers book, I announce them on Instagram. If you’re looking for a longer, more relaxed candid session, you can book full sessions at the lavender farm during the month of July. These book up early, so plan to get in touch with me about full sessions at the the lavender farm by spring.

Looking for more family session inspiration? Browse through my Guide to Portland Family Photoshoot Locations here! Check out this Portland maternity session in the wildflowers, or these family photos at the Columbia River Gorge. Ready to chat about booking your own family photos? Contact me!

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Lastly, if you’re spending your summer out at the beach (yes please), my friend Donna is sharing about her Florida vacation photography work on her blog, and I know she’s on my list next time I’m out in Florida on vacation!