Northern State Family Portraits
Earlier this fall, I met up with the Thompson and Richter clan near Sedro Woolley to take these incredible Northern State Family Portraits. I know this adventurous family through their two oldest kids, Ava and Jenaya, who are members of the current Class of 2024 Model Team! It has been so much fun having two cousins on the same team in their senior years, which only made me more excited to meet the rest of their family. The weather held up for this destination session and we got hours of sunshine to document what turned out to be a truly memorable day!
Family Bonding Time
Along with Ava and Jenaya, we had the rest of their family, which included two grandparents, three sisters, and all of their cousins! Multi-generational portraits are one of my favorite styles to shoot, partly because they are rare. Between everyone’s busy schedules, it can be incredibly difficult to find a time that works for the whole group. So I love it when everything comes together and we can capture not just one family’s photos, but make memories with the whole crew! And the Thompson and Richter family were ready! Between their neutral, fall-inspired outfits, and willingness to try lots of different poses, we were able to get tons of shots involving every member of the group!
Sedro Woolley Ghost Town
Despite its picturesque backdrop, did you know Northern State has a haunting history? If you are just hearing about this location for the first time, here is a little background. While parts of the ground are open to the public now, for hiking, recreational exploring, and in our case, fall portrait sessions, this location used to be the home to Northern State Hospital. One of the largest in Washington! It was shut down in 1973 and since has become a ghost town. People from all over visit the once self-contained city to explore the deserted buildings and historic grounds. While we didn’t spot anything strange during our trip, reports of paranormal activity are reported all the time!
Destination Family Sessions
If graveyards and ghost sightings aren’t what you’re looking for, there are plenty of other PNW locations that would be perfect for destination family portraits. One of the best parts of taking your family photos on the road is that you’re documenting memories as you make them! And lots of photographers are willing to travel to help make sure you get that perfect shot. Whether it is an old amusement park, beach cabin, or another stop on your family’s adventure list, destination portraits can be a refreshing way to try something new with the whole crew!
Let’s Connect!
know a Class of 2025 junior who wants to join the Senior Team? Send her my way! Reach out on our AHP Seniors Instagram and I’ll send you a message back ASAP! Can’t wait to hear from you! XOXO – Amanda
