Top 5 Locations for Photography Sessions in Oregon

July 27, 2024

As a professional photographer in Salem, Oregon, I’m often asked about the best locations for photo sessions. Whether you’re planning family portraits, engagement photos, or a special occasion shoot, choosing the right backdrop can make all the difference. Here are five of my favorite locations in Oregon for photography sessions, each offering unique beauty and charm.

1. George Rogers Park, Portland

George Rogers Park in Portland is a favorite for its lush greenery and serene atmosphere. This park offers a variety of picturesque spots, from tree-lined pathways to open grassy fields, making it perfect for any type of photography session.

Why It’s Great:

  • Versatility: Ideal for couples, families, and solo portraits.
  • Accessibility: Easily accessible with ample parking and amenities.

Best Time to Visit:

  • Early morning or late afternoon to capture the soft, natural light.
Portrait of an engaged couple walking hand in hand along a path at George Rogers Park in Portland, Oregon. They are smiling and laughing, surrounded by lush greenery.
Portrait of an engaged couple staring lovingly at each other in front of some bricks at George Rogers Park in Portland, Oregon.
Portrait of an engaged couple walking hand in hand through a grassy area at George Rogers Park in Portland, Oregon. They are smiling at each other in front of the Archway.

2. Minto-Brown Island Park, Salem

Minto-Brown Island Park is a bit of a hidden gem in Salem with its expansive landscapes and diverse scenery. From river views to dense forests and open meadows, this park provides a stunning backdrop for all kinds of photography.

Why It’s Great:

  • Natural Beauty: Offers a range of natural settings in one location.
  • Family-Friendly: Plenty of space for children and pets to explore.

Best Time to Visit:

  • Mid-morning or early evening to avoid harsh shadows and make the most of golden hour lighting.
Dreamy golden hour maternity photoshoot of a woman in a red maternity gown at Minto-Brown Island Park in Salem, Oregon. She is holding her dress and looking ethereal in the golden glow of the sun.
A couple sits together on a log surrounded by forest at Minto-Brown Island Park in Salem, Oregon. They stare lovingly at each other as they share a private moment in the trees.
Portrait of a mom-to-be standing on a path at Minto-Brown Island Park in Salem, Oregon. She is holding her baby bump on a tree lined path.

3. Deepwood Estates and Gardens, Salem

Deepwood Estates and Gardens is a historic venue in Salem, perfect for those seeking a touch of elegance and charm. The beautifully manicured gardens and vintage architecture provide a timeless, sophisticated backdrop for any photo session.

Why It’s Great:

  • Historic Charm: Ideal for engagement sessions and bridal portraits.
  • Seasonal Blooms: Gardens that offer vibrant colors throughout the year.

Best Time to Visit:

  • Late spring to early summer when the gardens are in full bloom.
A bride walks through the garden gates at Deepwood Estates and Gardens in Salem, Oregon. She's holding a bouquet of flowers and surrounded by the lush greenery of the garden.
A spooky portrait of a couple wearing pumpkin heads and sitting on a bench in Deepwood Estates and Gardens in Salem, Oregon. The male pumpkin is laying on the bench with his head in the female pumpkins lap next to the sculpted hedges.

4. Bush’s Pasture Park, Salem

Bush’s Pasture Park is another Salem favorite, known for its diverse photo opportunities. With its rose garden, historic mansion, and extensive trails, this park is a versatile location for any photo session.

Why It’s Great:

  • Diversity: Offers a mix of formal gardens and natural settings.
  • Historic Elements: The historic Bush House adds a unique touch.

Best Time to Visit:

  • Any time of year, but especially beautiful in spring and fall.
A large family smiles at the camera at Bush's Pasture Park in Salem, Oregon. The children climb on a low horizontal branch while the adults stand behind them.
A family photoshoot at Bush's Pasture Park in Salem, Oregon. The family is sitting in the gazebo with the rose gardens blooming behind them.
An engaged couples cozies up on a blanket in the fall colors at Bush's Pasture Park in Salem, Oregon. The bright fall leaves and pumpkins set the tone for this fall engagement session.

5. Hendricks Park, Eugene

Hendricks Park in Eugene is a beautiful location known for its lush greenery and vibrant rhododendron garden. This park offers a romantic and serene setting, perfect for couples and engagement sessions.

Why It’s Great:

  • Romantic Atmosphere: Ideal for capturing intimate and natural moments.
  • Botanical Beauty: The park’s well-maintained gardens and wooded areas provide a variety of stunning backdrops.

Best Time to Visit:

  • Spring and early summer when the rhododendrons and other flowers are in full bloom.
Engagement couple dancing together in the lush greenery of Hendricks Park, Eugene, Oregon, surrounded by blooming rhododendrons.
Engagement couple posing in the lush greenery of Hendricks Park, Eugene, Oregon, basking in the golden glow of the sun.
Engagement couple posing in the lush greenery of Hendricks Park, Eugene, Oregon, smiling and holding hands.

Honorable Mentions

While these are my top five locations, there are plenty of other beautiful spots worth mentioning. Try exploring Smith Rock State Park for its rugged landscapes and breathtaking views or Discovery Meadows Park in McMinnville for beautiful green areas, water features, and well-maintained trails

Engaged couple on top of a cliff overlooking a creek at Smith Rock State Park, Oregon.
Family photo at Discovery Park in McMinnville, Oregon, with the family in focus and grandparents holding hands out of focus in the foreground.

Are you ready?!

Choosing the perfect location is just the beginning of creating stunning, memorable photos. If you’re ready to book your session and capture some beautiful moments, I’d love to help you find the perfect setting. Contact me today to schedule your session and take advantage of this gorgeous summer weather!

Comments

  1. Vicky says:
    July 28, 2024 at 11:09 pm

    I love Bush’s Pasture Park! The fall vibes are immaculate there.

    Reply
    • Jessica Smith says:
      July 29, 2024 at 4:56 pm

      YES! It is my #1 fall location. As soon as the leaves start turning I don’t want to leave!

      Reply

2 Comments on Top 5 Locations for Photography Sessions in Oregon

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