What are you looking for when you think about locations for family photos? Fields, sunsets, or dog-friendly spaces? As a family photographer serving the Spokane area, James T Slavin Conservation area is on my go-to list of locations. Read on to find out if this location will fit your next photoshoot.
The Details First
Located south of Spokane off 195, James To Slavin Conservation Area is one of several Conservation Areas managed by Spokane County. If you haven’t checked them out, I’ll link all of the areas here – Spokane Conservation Areas. Besides Slavin, there are many gems of photo opportunities and hiking areas in Spokane. Also, another bonus is that you do not need any special passes to park here and enjoy the site.
Play in the fields together at James T Slavin Conservation Area
One of the biggest upsides to any field location for family photography is the freedom to move. Movement creates beautiful images and allows connections to flourish. Slavin definitely has fields in spades. Open fields of grass and meandering trails greet you at the parking lot.
My favorite prompts for families here include letting kids play tag in the grass, have races, and yes, even play in the dirt. Open spaces give kids the freedom to explore, resulting in a lot of joy in photos.
Spokane Sunsets at Slavin are Epic
Probably my number one reason for picking this location is definitely the sunsets. Gorgeous light filters through the trees and turns the grass golden in the evenings. If you’re looking to add an artistic flair to your family session, picking a field location as the sun is dipping will do that.
When the sun is setting, my favorite prompt is asking families to walk in a line holding hands through the beautiful sunbeams.
Does your family include a dog? James T Slavin Conservation area is dog friendly.
When I say a dog-friendly location for family photos in Spokane, I look for several other things. There is more than just allowing dogs to make something “dog friendly.” The ability to create space away from other dogs is a huge one. Nothing is worse than setting a family up for a photo with a reactive pup and encountering another pile of fur bounding down a tight trail.
At Slavin, you have a broad line of sight and plenty of elbow room to avoid other dogs that might be a distraction to your photoshoot.
I hope you enjoyed reading a bit more about one of my favorite locations. Check out these great spots for your next family photoshoot for a few other ideas!
Bowl and Bitcher Family Photography
Mt Spokane State Park Family Photography
Cheers!
MB – A Spokane-based photographer serving wild kids, crazy dogs, and soul brands in the Inland Northwest.
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