When to Book Family Photos in Portland, OR

Jan 7

One of the most common questions I get as a Portland and Vancouver, WA family photographer is: “When should we book our family photos?”

It’s a great question—because timing matters a lot here in the Pacific Northwest. From spring blossoms to fall leaves, each season has a short but beautiful window. Booking at the right time means less stress, better light, and family photos that truly reflect the season you love most.

If you’re planning family photos in the Portland or Vancouver area, this season-by-season guide will help you know exactly when to book.

🌸 Spring Blossom Family Photos (March–April)

Best time to book: January–Early March

Spring blossom sessions are some of the most requested family photography sessions in Portland and Vancouver, WA—and also the most unpredictable. Cherry blossoms, magnolias, and orchard blooms can last anywhere from a few days to a couple of weeks depending on the weather. I know last year blossoms were peak in mid-April, but it’s definitely a little different every year.

Why booking early matters:
Booking ahead allows flexibility in case blooms arrive earlier or later than expected, which is common in the PNW.

Spring blossom sessions are perfect for families who want:

Soft, light-filled family photos
Pastel tones and floral backgrounds
A fresh, airy look after winter

woman in pink dress with arms out wide looking up at sky with blossoming tree behind her

🌼 Columbia River Gorge Wildflower Family Photos (Late April–May)

Best time to book: March–Early April

Wildflower season in the Columbia River Gorge is one of the most breathtaking times of year for family photos in the Pacific Northwest. Hillsides come alive with color—yellow balsamroot, purple lupine, and sweeping views that feel wide, open, and magical.

Because this season is both short and weather-dependent, wildflower sessions in the Gorge can be tricky to plan just right. Know that this will be more of an adventurous session since most locations with wildflowers will require a longer drive and a bit of a walk.

Why booking early matters:
Peak bloom can shift year to year based on rainfall and temperatures. Booking ahead allows us to plan strategically and adjust timing if needed to catch the flowers at their best.

Gorge wildflower sessions are perfect for families who want:

Vibrant, colorful family photos
Epic scenery with a true PNW feel
A slightly adventurous, outdoorsy session

Hill with wildflowers on it with the Columbia River Gorge in the background

🌿 Green PNW Family Photo Sessions (Late May–June)

Best time to book: March-Early May

Late spring and early summer are peak “lush green” season in the Pacific Northwest. The forests are vibrant, wildflowers start to appear, and temperatures are mild.

These sessions are ideal if you want classic PNW family photos in the lush green without the pressure of blossom timing.

Why families love this season:

Comfortable temperatures for kids
Deep green backdrops
More flexibility with scheduling

This is one of the best times of year for outdoor family photography in the PNW.

Family with three kids looks at youngest toddler being held by mom with white flowering bushes in the background

☀️ Summer Family Photos (July–September)

Best time to book: April-Early July

Summer family photo sessions bring golden light, warm evenings, and playful energy. While sunsets are later in the summer, there are a couple ways to work around it. We could either do a location with a lot of trees where the sun is blocked and essentially “sets” earlier, or you could book in August when the sun starts setting earlier. Just know-that golden light is definitely worth it! For tips and tricks on doing sessions at golden hour during the summer, I have a blog post for that here.

Summer sessions are great for:

Candid, movement-filled family photos
Warm, golden tones
Families who want a relaxed, carefree feel

✨ Bonus: Summer offers the most predictable weather for family photography in the PNW.

Family with four kids stands on the shoreline wading into the water as they hug two kids while reaching for the other two kids

🍂 Fall Family Photos with Leaves (October–Early November)

Best time to book: July–September

Fall is the most popular season for family photos in Portland and Vancouver, WA. The colors are rich, the light is soft, and the season feels cozy and nostalgic.

Why early booking is essential:
Fall color peaks quickly, and availability fills up fast. Booking in summer ensures you don’t miss that short window of peak fall leaves.

Fall sessions are perfect for families who love:

Warm, earthy tones
Cozy layers and textures
Timeless, classic family photos

Grandparents in the middle of all their grandkids while they all try to hug them

When Should You Book Family Photos in the PNW?

I try and be as flexible as I can when it comes to booking sessions, but you’ll obviously have the most success and get the most options available when you book at least a month or two out from when you would like your session to take place. Sometimes I have last-minute availability, other times I won’t so sooner is definitely better than later.

A Gentle Reminder

You don’t have to have everything figured out before booking. If you’re unsure which season fits your family best, I’ll help guide you based on your kids’ ages, schedules, and the feel you’re drawn to most.

If you’re thinking about family photos in Portland or Vancouver, WA, reaching out early simply opens the door to planning something meaningful—no pressure, no rush.