When capturing real family moments, the location is more than just a backdrop—it’s part of the story. After spending the past 10 years photographing families all over Spokane and the Inland Northwest, I’ve come to appreciate how the right family photography location can turn a great photo into a truly unforgettable one that resonates with your family. Whether your style leans more toward nature, cityscapes, or somewhere in between, Spokane has no shortage of stunning spots to make your next family session feel just right.
In this guide, I’m sharing some of my favorite family photography locations around Spokane, perfect for families of all kinds (including the ones where the dog is front and center). Whether you’re searching for wide-open spaces or those hidden local gems, you’ll find plenty of inspiration here to help plan your next session. Plus, if you’re wondering which spots are dog-friendly, I’ve got you covered. Keep reading, and let’s find the perfect place for your family’s next adventure.
Go to one of the many spots on the Spokane River
From Coeur’d Alene to past Nine Mile Falls, there are so many great spots along the river for photos. So, no matter what part of town you’re in, you can find a convenient location with the backdrop of the Spokane River. However, my favorite spots are in the Spokane Valley and up North. One thing to note is that while we can almost always get photos of the river, not every location has river access. So, if you want playful water photos, let your photographer know beforehand.
Dog Friendly Rating – High. Almost everything along the Spokane River is dog friendly when on leash. The only down side is sometimes these spots are crowded with other pups.
Head to the top of the Mountain for an Epic Family Photo Location
This will always be my favorite family photography location, even in a year like 2024, when bugs sort of took over a lot of our shoots (don’t forget the bug spray here). While we can always access the wooded sections of Mt. Spokane, the top is only open from June—mid-September. The Vista House at the top has the most amazing views and, if you time it right, some amazing wildflowers in August.
However, if you don’t feel like trekking to the top of the summit road, there are some great hike-in cabins, stone paths, and mountain fields easily accessible a little further down with a quick 10-minute walk.
Read more on Family Photos or Engagement Photos at Mt Spokane and see what I mean about this gem for Family photo locations.
Take an Urban Stroll through the Garland District for Your Family Photos
After years of taking families to the best nature locations for family photography in the Inland Northwest, I recently started offering photos in more urban settings. While I think Downtown Spokane and Kendall Yards are great, the Garland District provides one of the most unique backdrops in Spokane, weaving this unique urban vibe with vintage Spokane charm.
If your family feels more comfortable strolling together in an urban setting, your next family photos can reflect that.
Dog Friendly Rating – Medium. While this is obviously a ‘Dogs Allowed’ part of Spokane, there is always a chance of encountering other dogs, people and distractions on a small sidewalk. It’s best to skip this place if you have a reactive pup.
Room to breathe in one of the amazing field locations around Spokane
My go-to spot for families with children that need to run around and dogs that are extra wiggly is one of the amazing wide-open fields in Spokane. There is enough elbow room for everyone to breathe and kids to be kids when you choose a field location for your family.
But don’t worry, it’s not just a field. In a few of the places I go, you’ll find old apple trees, winding trails, and even aspens that change color in the fall. It’s one of the most versatile location ideas for families. If you’re on the fence with where to go, choosing a field setting is a safe bet.
View more field family photo location ideas with this past blog at Slavin Conservation Area.
Dog Friendly Rating – High .This is one of the spots I recommend to dog owners, especially if they are worried about reactivity. Will there be other dogs? Maybe… Probably. But we are talking about acres and acres of fields of grass and trees for your dog to investigate. It’s easy to step out of sight of any other families and feel like you have the place to yourself.
Outside Of The Box Family Photography Location – Take a hike in Riverside State Park
Alright, we’ve made it to my favorite after Mt. Spokane. If you have an adventurous streak in your family or really dig hiking and the outdoors, this might be a great idea for your family pictures this year.
Some of my favorite locations along the Spokane River and inside Riverside State Park are a 15-minute hike from the parking lot with a small amount of elevation. Choosing to walk away from the car has a couple of big benefits. First, you can get more candid, documentary photos of your whole family while you hike and naturally explore together. Second, we can walk to locations that are less crowded with other photographers, giving kids and dogs lots of space.
If you’re up for it, ask me about options that are more of a walk-in for photos. This will open us up to a lot more possibilities and help us make some amazing memories. One time I even went kayaking for a session!
Here are a few examples of locations that are worth the hike around Spokane.
Dog Friendly Rating – High. Hiking in for photos is a great option for more reactive dogs or even dogs that simply have a lot of energy to burn before settling in.
Stay Traditional With Your Family Photos And Wander around a Park
I can’t leave out the fact that Spokane has some fantastic parks. While I’m not typically a shoot-in-a-manicured-park type of photographer, I will absolutely get behind strolling around Finch Arboretum or even Manito Park.
If you’re looking for easy access, more traditional photos, or predictable color, choosing a park setting for your next family photography location is a great option.
Dog Friendly Rating – Low. Sorry to my dog readers, this one might not be for you. Finch Arboretum has a no dog policy along with certain areas in Manito Park.
Family Photos at Spokane Landmarks
Whenever possible, I think it’s excellent to weave in an iconic element of Spokane to your yearly family portraits. In the Inland NW, there is no shortage of great options. The Spokane Falls and Bowl and Bitcher are a few of my favorite spots. However, the Pavilion, the Loof Carousel, Browns Addition… There are endless options.
Photos from a session at Bowl and Pitcher
Downtown Spokane Family Photos
Dog Friendly Rating – Medium. While dogs are allowed, most places they can get busy. If your dog doesn’t mind other people and pets, then you’re good to go. If you have a more nervous pup, these spots are still doable but it’s best to avoid the busier days.
Visit the Northern Tip of Riverside State Park
Whew, flying through these. One of the last spots I want to discuss is that Riverside State Park doesn’t stop at Bowl and Pitcher. In fact, the northernmost tip into Nine Mile Falls has some great, less traffic spots. This area also has some of my favorite non-mountain wildflower spots from May to June. The only downside is you’ll need to drive a bit longer to reach some of these understated family photo spots. But trust me, during wildflower season especially, it’s worth it.
Dog Friendly Rating – High. Less dogs, more room to breathe make this a great dog friendly spot.
Staying Home For Your Family Photos
Staying home for family photos can be just as meaningful and more storytelling than almost any other location. Photos can be taken in your backyard while you play a game of cards or just snuggle on the couch together as a family. If you aren’t feeling like getting dressed up and heading out, let’s plan an adventure where you stay in and relax.
Dog-Friendly Rating – The Highest. This is the best option for your four-legged friend to relax, be off-leash, and enjoy the photography process.
Final Thoughts on The Best Family Photo Location
Above are just a few location ideas to you started in thinking about the best location for your family photos this year. Maybe the river photos remind you how much you love Bear Lake or the Landmarks spark an idea for an ice cream shoot at the Milk Bottle. Use these as a launching pad to make your next photos as dynamic as your family story.
And if you’ve read this all and you’re still like, “MB… I can’t choose,” that’s music to my ears. I love selecting the best spot for each family I work with every year.
Have a spot I should add to this list? Drop me an email mb@mbbryantimages.com
Note- All location details were current when I wrote this post. However, things can change, so please verify any location (especially dogs allowed) before you plan a session.
