As a lifestyle photographer in Portland, Oregon, I get the incredible opportunity to create art out of my client’s lives. On the very best days, that includes some travel to beautiful PNW locations like the Columbia River Gorge! This summer session was at Beacon Rock, a location filled with some great family memories for these sweet clients.

We set out to create relaxed, natural family photos that felt like candid memories of their adventures together. With the summer sun setting over Beacon Rock, we spent our session time soaking in the classic Pacific Northwest skyline.

In lifestyle family photography, the focus is almost always on more candid moments. I’ve talked before about how I love to set up families in great light and then let the moment unfold with some gentle direction. But one thing always on my list of must-have family photos, no matter what? The holiday card photo. Even if it’s not your top priority, we’re going to make it happen. Everyone has a family member who will cherish a photo like this–grandma, a far-off aunt…the classic portrait is timeless, and after a session full of fun exploring, everyone’s nice and relaxed, making this type of photo feel as natural as possible!

I love that this location is really only about an hour from Portland, making it a perfect little daytrip. If you’re visiting Beacon Rock or Cascade Locks, what about making it a family photo opportunity? Columbia River Gorge sessions are my favorites, and we always come away with classic PNW photography that showcases your family enjoying the landscape.

Looking for a lifestyle photographer in Portland, Oregon?

First, check out these family photos at Columbia River Gorge, or these Rowena Crest wildflower maternity photos. And if you’re ready to book with a lifestyle photographer in Portland, Oregon, well…head over to my main website and let’s chat!

PS, if you’ve been following along with my weekly shares of my favorite photographers, you’ll want to check out my friend Rachel’s sunset maternity session she just posted. She’s a Franklin maternity photographer that I just adore, and those images are my favorites this week!