Seattle, WA
Downtown Seattle: Located in the heart of the city are some of the most iconic Seattle attractions, including Pike Place Market, Seattle Aquarium, and the brand new Seattle Waterfront. If you are looking for creative, urban, street-style shoots, there is plenty of that downtown. Keep in mind that many areas are busy, so early mornings or weekdays are best for a less crowded experience.
Discovery Park: Located on the shores of the Puget Sound is Seattle’s largest green space, featuring beach access, forests, meadows, and the iconic West Point Lighthouse. This location offers a wide variety of settings and scenery, perfect for all kinds of portraits. Keep in mind that the trail to the beach and lighthouse is just over 4 miles out and back, which can take over two hours to loop.
Washington Park Arboretum: Located minutes from the UW Seattle campus is a lush botanical garden featuring a huge range of beautiful trees and plants. This is an excellent spot for nature portraits of any kind. Some areas can get muddy in the rainy season, so wear appropriate footwear.
Gas Works Park: Located on Lake Union is this unique, highly popular park. Gas Works features the rusted remains of an old gas plant alongside one of the best skyline views in the city. Another unique feature is the large hill in the center of the park that offers a crisp viewpoint of downtown and the Space Needle. On warm days and weekends, expect this park to be quite crowded, which may make the session challenging.
Seward Park: This peaceful park located on a peninsula in Lake Washington offers stunning lake views, forested trails, and a distant view of Mount Rainier on clear days. There is plenty of greenery and access to the water, allowing for great photo conditions for any occasion.
Kerry Park: If you want city skyline views not far from downtown Seattle, Kerry Park is a great choice. On a clear day, expect to see the Space Needle, downtown, and Mount Rainier all from one place. As beautiful as the views are, the park is small and doesn't have a lot of space to move around. Due to its popularity and size, it can be quite crowded.
Alki Beach: A waterfront location in West Seattle and one of the most popular beaches in the area is Alki Beach. This long strip of waterfront access offers views of the Seattle skyline, sandy beaches, and rocky shorelines. If you want beach photos but don't want to make the trip out to the coast, this is a wonderful location. Although it is a rather large park, its popularity attracts large crowds, especially during the warm months. On busy days, expect parking to fill up quickly.
Mount Si: Located about 30 miles from Seattle in North Bend are various parks along the base of Mount Si. These parks offer plenty of space, variety, and breathtaking views of the mountains. Please note that these views are weather dependent.
Rattlesnake Ledge/Lake: Located about 35 miles from Seattle is the quiet and stunning Rattlesnake Lake. There is direct access to the lake with little to no walking, but if you are feeling more adventurous, the popular Rattlesnake Ledge Trail is located at the lakes edge. The trail provides views of the lake and its surround forest. It is considered moderate, sitting at just over 5 miles round trip. Expect to spend at least 3 hours on the hike itself. The viewpoint at the top can get crowded during hiking season, but the views are unbeatable.
Mount Rainier National Park: Depending on the side of the mountain you would like to shoot at (Longmire, Paradise, Ohanapecosh, Sunrise, and Carbon River or Mowich), Rainier is about 60-100 miles from Seattle. Paradise is by far the most popular part of the mountain and contains the famous Skyline Loop Trail, which has some of its most breathtaking views within the first mile. No matter where you go, this location offers backdrops for adventurous, beautiful, and unique sessions. Things to note: One of the beauties of Rainier are its wildflowers which are in full bloom July-September. Some areas require a hike, plan accordingly. Road access may be limited in winter due to snow, which can last as long as October-May. There is an entry fee year round of $30/vehicle which much be purchased ahead of time. Additionally, for Paradise and Sunrise, a $2 vehicle reservation is required May-September for visits 7 a.m.-3 p.m., which must also be purchased ahead of time.
Portland, OR
Downtown Portland: Located in the heart of the city, Downtown Portland has a variety of great photo locations, including The Pearl District, Pioneer Courthouse Square, Powell's City of Books (the largest bookstore in the world!), and Tom McCall Waterfront Park. If you're looking for creative, city-style shoots, this area provides endless options of modern and historic architecture, cobblestone streets, and neon signs. If an urban session isn't what you're looking for, the waterfront offers beautiful views and tons of cherry blossom trees in the Spring. Keep crowds in mind with any spot in this part of town.
Washington Park - International Rose Test Garden: Inside of Washington Park is the notable Rose Garden. For colorful, possibly romantic, and floral-filled pictures, this is a top pick. The over 600 kinds of roses are at their peak June-September. This part of the park is free to enter, but is very popular so parking may fill up and we may need to work through crowds.
Hoyt Arboretum: Just minutes from downtown Portland is a lush botanical garden with over 2,000 species of trees and open meadows. This spot is perfect for accessible, nature-filled portraits. Some trails can get muddy in winter, so plan footwear accordingly.
Forest park: One of the largest urban forests in the U.S. is located less than 5 miles from the city. Forest Park is an amazing location for lush, moody, and nature-focused sessions. Within the park is The Pittock Mansion, Witch’s Castle, and views of the city depending on where you hike to. Do note that the witches castle is covered in colorful graffiti that may change the vibe of the photos.
Mt. Tabor: Just East of Portland is a dormant volcano-turned-city park-- Mt. Tabor. The short trails in this park offer stunning city views, open meadows, and scenic reservoirs. This is an excellent spot for a variety of nature and scenic portraits.
Cathedral Park: Right beneath St. Johns Bridge in NW Portland, Cathedral Park is famous for its Gothic-style arches right over the water. While the architecture creates a cinematic, moody feel, the location also offers riverside access and greenery, making it versatile for any kind of session.
George Rogers Park: Located in Lake Oswego which is less than 10 miles from Portland is George Rogers Park. This park offers a wonderful mix of riverfront access, open meadows, wooded trails, and stone structures. The mixture of scenery makes this location perfect for all occasions.
Cooper Mountain Nature Park: This scenic nature park in Beaverton, about 15 miles from Portland, features rolling hills, open meadows, woodlands, and views of the Tualatin Valley. With elevated landscapes and open space, it’s perfect for golden-hour photos, but not mid-day photos. During winter months, the park isn't in bloom and doesn't contain much greenery.
Powell Butte Nature Park: Located near Gresham, about 15 miles from Portland, is this hilltop nature area. Depending on the trails you take, this park offers rolling meadows, forestry, wildflowers (late spring), and views of Mount Hood, Mount St. Helens, and Mount Adams. The wide variety of scenery and the openness of this location makes it perfect for every session. The trails are relatively easy, but some walking is required.
Crown Point & Vista House: Located in the Columbia River Gorge, 25 miles from Portland, Crown Point is one of the most scenic overlooks in Oregon. The Vista House offers a historic stone backdrop with stunning views of the Gorge. During a clear day, sunset and views are unbeatable. Do note that it can get incredibly windy up there, so plan outfits accordingly.
Government Cove: Located near Cascade Locks, about 50 miles from Portland, is this secluded Columbia River Gorge location. Its rocky cliffs, rolling hills, and water views have made this location very popular amongst photographers. There is not a whole lot of variety, making this spot ideal for engagements or intimate elopements. The terrain is uneven and it can be windy, so dress accordingly.
Waterfall Corridor: Spanning about 10 miles along the Historic Columbia River Highway are over a dozen beautiful waterfalls varying in hike time. Starting with Horsetail Falls 35 miles from Portland, and ending with Latourell Falls 30 miles from Portland, there are plenty of options to choose from. One of the most accessible waterfalls in the Gorge is Latourell Falls, being only a 5 minute walk from the parking lot. Oregon’s most famous waterfall, Multnomah Falls is an iconic backdrop for creative sessions. The waterfall is visible from the road and requires no hiking, but a 10 minute hike is required to get to the iconic Benson Bridge. This corridor is notorious for bumper-bumper traffic, and little to no parking majority of the day during the busy season. A $2 timed-entry permit is required for Multnomah Falls May-September and must be purchased ahead of time. Keep in mind that any area near a waterfall is likely to be slippery, so proper footwear is a must.
Trillium Lake: About 60 miles from Portland near Mt. Hood is one of the most picturesque lakes in Oregon, with a close view of the mountain on clear days. When the water is still, the mountain reflects perfectly on the water, making portraits here unique and painting-like. This area does require a $5 day-use permit and can be crowded in summer.
Cannon Beach: Arguably one of Oregon’s most famous coastal photography locations is located about 80 miles from Portland-- Cannon Beach. Featuring Haystack Rock, endless sandy beaches, and rocky bluffs, this beach is undeniably beautiful (especially at sunset!). With that said, this beach has limited parking and is incredibly crowded all year, especially warmer months. There are plenty of other beautiful beaches neighboring this one along the Oregon Coast, but if the aesthetic of Cannon Beach and Haystack Rock is what you are looking for, prepare for crowds.
Ecola State Park: Further North near Seaside, about 85 miles from Portland, is this coastal state park. Spanning 9 miles, there is no lack of scenic variety. With lush forested trails, dramatic cliffs, and clear ocean views/access, this location is practically perfect for every occasion. Note, this park requires a $5 day-use permit.
God's Thumb Trail: Located in Lincoln City, about 90 miles from Portland, is the popular God's Thumb Trail. The trail is considered moderate, spanning 4 miles round trip with breathtaking grassy hills, cliffs, and expansive ocean views throughout. Expect to be walking for about 2 hours total. Good shoes are a must since the hike is often slippery from the rain.
Yaquina Head: Newport, about 115 miles from Portland, is home to Oregon’s tallest lighthouse, Yaquina Head. The views of the lighthouse on top of rocky cliffs, the ocean, and vast hills makes this one of the prettiest places for unique, cinematic photos. Best times:Sunset for warm golden tones or winter for dramatic stormy skies. The area is open year round but requires a $7 entry fee per vehicle.
Eastern Oregon
Downtown Pendleton: In the heart of Pendleton is a mix of historic brick buildings, rustic alleyways, vintage storefronts, and Western aesthetic. With the beautiful architecture and signage of buildings like the Center for the Arts, Hamley Steakhouse & Saloon, Heritage Station, Great Pacific, Virgil's At Cimmiyotti's, etc., there is ample opportunity for vintage, cinematic photos.
Pendleton River Pathway: The Umatilla River runs directly through Pendleton, and along it spans this paved pathway. The levee is adjacent to parks, bridges, trees, and grassy areas. This is a great spot for a mix of urban and natural backdrops without leaving town. I specifically recommend the river accesses near Roy Raley Park, Pendleton High School, and Club 24. All three locations are relatively secluded and therefore have nice views. They also contain more greenery than some other spots along the pathway. During spring, the river can get extremely high and make access and views more challenging.
Airport Road: On the outskirts of town just past the Pendleton Airport is a set of trails (Jame's/Evan's Trail) in a wide open field. Most often use for dirt biking, the terrain is rugged and worn, but it makes walking through the fields easier. There is an amazing sunset view and horizon, but the landscape is simple and repetitive. This spot would not be suitable for a long or creative session.
Rieth Road: Just outside of Pendleton, about 10 miles, down the quiet, paved Reith Road are some unique views in comparison to town. While there are plenty of spots to stop, there is a specific pull off I prefer that is the perfect spot for views of rocky cliffs, brushy hills and a rocky river beach. With an additional trail through the brush, this spot is perfect for a variety of rugged and natural settings.
Cabbage Hill Lookouts: There are a few viewpoints between Pendleton and La Grande, but a couple notable ones are the Scenic Overlook after Wildhorse Resort & Casino (12 miles from Pendleton) and Squaw Creek Overlook (23 miles from Pendleton). The first viewpoint after passing Wildhorse is a notorious truck stop, but under the gazebo and over the wall are amazing views of the vast hills. In the spring, it is covered in wildflowers. The sunset views over the horizon are perfect. The Squaw Creek Overlook is quite similar but contains more forestry and variety for backgrounds. Please practice extreme caution on Cabbage Hill (the road leading to and past these spots), as it is known to be a dangerous pass. Expect possible snow November-March.
Deadman’s Pass: About 20 miles from Pendleton is a rest area which is known for its viewpoints. Due to its location in the forest but also in the open fields, it is a pretty versatile location. Driving just minutes further up the paved road from the rest area leads you to expansive horizon views with incredible sunset opportunities. Please practice extreme caution on Cabbage Hill (the road leading to and past this spot), as it is known to be a dangerous pass. Expect possible snow November-March.
Emigrant Springs State Heritage Area: Emigrant Springs is located 25 miles outside of Pendleton, and is by far the most popular location for photos in the area. It is a large campground with trails leading to wooden bridges, walking paths in the forest, wildflowers and plants, and a large open grass field. The variety and size of this spot makes it never get boring, regardless of its popularity. Please practice extreme caution on Cabbage Hill (the road leading to and past this spot), as it is known to be a dangerous pass. Expect possible snow November-March.
Hat Rock State Park: Behind the McNary Dam on the Columbia river, 30 miles from Pendleton, is a park names after its large rock formation. This park contains many trails, open fields, rolling hills, a grassy area on Lake Wallula, and views of Hat Rock. The diversity of this location makes it a great place for photos.
Twin Sisters Rock: About 45 miles from Pendleton towards Tri-Cities is a stunning, open location featuring popular rocky formations along the Columbia River. Aside from the rock, there are rolling hills and scenic views of the horizon and river. There is a short, easy trail system that provides access to the base of the rock formations, making for beautiful backdrop opportunities. During the spring, there is a possibility for wildflowers on the hills.
Jubilee Lake: About 55 miles from Pendleton is a serene alpine lake surrounded by dense forests, mountain views, and walking trails. When the water is still, there are beautiful reflections, perfect for unique photos. Its green, secluded nature setting gives a true Pacific Northwest feel that isn't as prevalent in other Eastern Oregon locations. It is a popular campground, but partially shuts down in the winter due to weather, often until late June. The road can be rough in some areas, and there are limited amenities, so plan accordingly.