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Let’s talk the Oregon Coast! It’s becoming a favorite destination for families across the United States. Peak season is the summertime when it’s generally drier and the temperatures are around 75 degrees. It’s always been an escape from the heat for Portlanders, but the rugged tree-lined coastline draws more people every year. It’s really a […]

Family of 3 explores the oregon coast during family photos by Lincoln city photographer Samantha Shannon

One of my favorite things about Salem, Oregon photography for families is that we have such a range of incredible natural areas we can use. There are gardens, flower farms, and so many natural areas. The river winds right through here, and for this hot summer session we decided to use it! They brought their […]

family with dogs at river family photos salem oregon photography by Samantha Shannon

There’s nothing quite like Oregon wine country in the summer–except, well, Oregon wine country family photos in the summer! I might be biased, but the sun setting over the rolling hills of Yamhill county just has my heart. It’s such a short drive from Portland, but for families looking for a slower paced, country feel […]

family of four stands in the rolling hills of Oregon's wine country near Portland Oregon by photographers in McMinnville Oregon Samantha Shannon

The kids are bored, your usual playgrounds have lost their luster, and you’re desperate to get out of the house but you’re out of ideas. I’ve got you covered. I’ve rounded up my favorite things to do in Portland with kids, just for you. With two kids of my own and over a decade of […]

Spring wildflower mini sessions went live on my website today, and because mini sessions are perfect opportunities for motherhood photos, I thought it was time to share a favorite from last year! Motherhood photography is focused entirely on the connection between you and your baby. It’s the perfect time to reflect on and document your […]

mom and baby in a wildflower field for a motherhood photo session in the PNW.

This week, I launched my 2024 booking calendar to my VIP list subscribers. There’s something so fun about having the whole year laid out in front of me. I’m looking forward to seeing returning and new clients for spring wildflowers, summer evenings in the field, and cozy fall photos as we wrap up the year. […]

rowena crest wildflower maternity photos in portland oregon

A common question I get from clients inquiring about a maternity session is: Can I include my older kids in my maternity photos? The answer is a big, resounding YES! The arrival of a new baby is a celebration for the whole family, and family maternity photos are the perfect way to document the anticipation. […]

maternity photo

Listen, there are about a thousand books out there telling you how to start a photography business. If you’re planning to start a photography business in 2023, chances are you’ve read the books, watched all the Youtube videos, and have a pretty good idea of where to start. But today, I want to share the […]

mom and son during outdoor family portraits

If you’re hoping to sign your children up for swim lessons in Portland this year, you’re not alone. According to the American Academy of Pediatrics, children may start swim classes as early as age 1, and in a city as family-friendly as Portland, that’s a whole lot of kids looking for a great pool this […]

Motherhood photo of mom and baby in a field of purple wildflowers

Follow along for all the pretty on the daily: what I'm working on, my current favorite hikes around Portland, and what I'm reading!

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@samanthashannonphotography