Location guide
The Best Seattle Family Photo Session Locations: An Interactive Map
Updated for 2026 | By Meredith McKee, Seattle Family Photographer
One of the questions I get asked the most is: "Where should we do our family photos?"
And I get it! Choosing a location can feel like a big decision, especially when there are SO many gorgeous spots around Seattle. After nearly 20 years of photographing families all over the greater Seattle area, I've built up quite the list of favorites. So I put together this interactive map to make it easy for you to explore all the best options by neighborhood, vibe, and setting.
Click any pin to see sample photos, my tips for that location, and links to full blog posts with even more inspiration!
How to Choose the Right Location for Your Family Session
Not sure where to start? Here are a few things to think about:
Go where your family already loves to spend time. Some of my very favorite sessions have been at a family's go-to park, their favorite beach, or right at home. When you're comfortable, it shows in the photos.
Think about the vibe you want. Do you love the idea of a moody, forested PNW backdrop? A sunny beach with mountain views? The energy of Pike Place Market? Seattle has it all, and each spot gives your photos a totally different feel.
Consider the ages of your kids. Toddlers do great at open parks where they can run and explore. Babies are happy almost anywhere (as long as it's close to naptime... just kidding. Sort of). Older kids love more adventurous locations like mountain trails or ferry rides.
Don't stress about the weather. This is Seattle! Some of my most beautiful sessions have happened on overcast or even drizzly days. The soft, even light is actually a photographer's dream. And I've got a whole post on indoor photo locations and tips for shooting in the rain if you want a backup plan.
Seattle Photo Locations by Region
North Seattle + Edmonds
This area is home to some of my all-time favorite spots. Discovery Park is my number one go-to for a reason: it has meadows, forest trails, a lighthouse, AND beach access all in one park. It's incredible year-round. Golden Gardens is stunning at both sunrise and sunset, and the Arboretum is absolutely magical during cherry blossom season and peak fall color.
Other North Seattle favorites include Green Lake Park (relaxed and family-friendly), Gas Works Park (iconic skyline views), Volunteer Park (gorgeous architecture and greenery in Capitol Hill), Brackett's Landing on the Edmonds waterfront, and Richmond Beach Saltwater Park.
West + South Seattle
Lincoln Park gives you forest trails that open up to a rocky beach with amazing variety. Alki Beach is best in the mornings when you get that Seattle skyline reflected across the water. Seward Park has stunning old-growth forest with the most beautiful dappled light, and Seahurst Park is a quieter hidden gem with a long stretch of beach.
The Eastside
For families on the Eastside, you've got great options without having to cross the bridge. Juanita Bay and Beach in Kirkland offers both a nature boardwalk and a sandy beach. Heritage Park has gorgeous lake and mountain views right on the Kirkland waterfront. Marymoor Park in Redmond has tons of variety (fields, trails, river access), and Luther Burbank Park on Mercer Island is a peaceful spot with beautiful evening light.
I also have a dedicated blog post on my favorite Eastside session locations!
Urban + Iconic Seattle
Want that classic Seattle feel? Pike Place Market is vibrant and iconic (best early in the morning before the crowds). Olympic Sculpture Park is modern, artsy, and right on the waterfront. The Seattle Great Wheel and Pier 57 area has great energy, and Center for Wooden Boats / Lake Union Park gives you charming nautical vibes with houseboats and the skyline. Pioneer Square is beautiful for families who love brick, string lights, and an old-Seattle aesthetic.
PNW Mountains + Adventure Sessions
This is where it gets really fun. Gold Creek Pond near Snoqualmie Pass has jaw-dropping alpine reflections. Meadowbrook Farm in North Bend is dreamy for golden hour with the Cascades as your backdrop. Rattlesnake Lake is an easy, accessible mountain spot that's gorgeous for families. Snohomish is amazing for fall pumpkin farms and late summer flower fields. And ferry rides (Mukilteo to Whidbey or Bainbridge) make for the most uniquely PNW session you can imagine.
Want to go even further? I love adventure sessions at places like Mount Rainier, Deception Pass, North Cascades, or along Highway 2 through Sultan, Gold Bar, and Skykomish. I do charge additional mileage/travel fees for locations outside a 30-mile radius of Seattle, but I absolutely love exploring new places with my families!
At Home
I can't put a pin on the map for this one, but I have to mention it: some of my very favorite sessions happen right in your living room, backyard, or on your front porch. In-home sessions are relaxed, personal, and especially wonderful for newborn and young family sessions. Don't worry if your place feels small or imperfect. I promise it will photograph beautifully.
Still Not Sure? Let's Pick Together!
Choosing a location is one of my favorite parts of the planning process. When you book a session with me, we'll chat about what spots feel right for your family, the time of year, and the look you're going for. I always have suggestions!
Ready to book your Seattle family photo session? Check out my pricing or get in touch and let's start planning!