Fall family photo location in seattle


Fall is a great time for family photos here in Seattle. There are more than a handful of parks right here in the city for photographer to choose from when scheduling the year-end family photo sessions. Volunteer Park is one gorgeous spot in Seattle. If you're from outer suburbs like Mukilteo, Everett, Edmonds or Bothell and not used to driving in the city, it's a super easy location to get to as well. You mainly stay on the outskirts of the busy city areas.

What makes volunteer park special?


For me hands down, it's the Volunteer Park Conservatory. It's a little haven for plant nerds but it also makes such a great backdrop for photos. It is protected from the elements and has a lot of natural light to work. Please read further to know if you need any special permits for photography in Volunteer Park Conservatory.

The Conservatory is open Tuesday to Sunday from 10am to 4pm. It is closed on Monday. You have to pay to enter and all the pricing information is available up-to-date on the website. The Conservatory is open for free on the first Thursday of each month.

do i need a permit for photography at volunteer park in seattle?


The short answer YES. All Seattle city parks require a permit for professional or commercial photography on their premises. This helps with maintenance and any conflict with construction, clean-up, use of the parks etc. The application can be found online on the Seattle Parks website along with the fees. It is very reasonable and you can consider it as a donation, if you'd like.

The long answer is, if you're a professional photographer working with a small family like the one in this session, you don't have to apply for a permit in advance. If you keep your footprint low (i.e. only have a camera, backpack and yourself), and be considerate of your surroundings and other visitors, it should be okay to be without a permit. However, if you are shooting inside the Volunteer Park Conservatory, yes I would highly recommend purchasing the permit in advance. This is a small space and sometimes is closed for events. You would know for sure if you're able to conduct your photo session as scheduled if you consult with the city first.

Volunteer park has the seattle asian arts museum


The two camels sitting in the front of the Seattle Asian Art Museum are fun for the kids to appreciate and then run around during family photo sessions. Right across from the art museum is a view of the city of Seattle that's hard to beat. You can see the Space needle, the Puget Sound and even the Olympics on a clear day. There is also the famous granite sculpture by Isamu Noguchi called "the Black Sun" but I think everyone likes to call it the donut.

dahlia garden, water tower and more


Volunteer Parks' IG account keeps us all update on bloom season for the dahlias and any seasonal events that go on at the park. Follow them here whether you're a photographer or a family.

Volunteer park hours and location

Open Every day dawn to 6am-10pm

Location: 1247 15th Ave. E, Seattle, WA 98112 (Google Map)


READY TO BOOK A family photo SESSION?

I have one all-inclusive package for your Seattle lifestyle family or maternity photo session. Pricing for the sessions can be found on my "investment" page. Don't see what you like, feel free to ask for a custom quote. I also recommend Volunteer Park for Senior sessions.

If you prefer to stay in Everett, I also offer family, maternity and senior sessions in Mukilteo, Bothell, Edmonds, Lynnwood and more.

Check out other seattle park locations for family photos