Best Locations for Senior Photos in the Greater Seattle Area
The Best Locations for Senior Photos in the Greater Seattle Area
Seattle and its surroundings are rich with varied textures — from saltwater beaches to forested trails, river views, waterfront promenades, and urban details. Here’s a curated list of wonderful backdrops for senior portraits covering Seattle, north of the city, and east toward the Eastside.
Inside Seattle
These classic Seattle spots are familiar favorites but still worth mentioning:
Discovery Park – Wide meadows, beach cliffs, forest paths, and water views make this a versatile location for portraits with tons of variety.
Golden Gardens Beach & Carkeek Park – Pacific Northwest beach vibe with driftwood, sandy edges, and Puget Sound backdrop.
Gas Works Park – Industrial structures + sweeping skyline views create a strong visual contrast.
Olympic Sculpture Park – Modern, artsy sculptures with water and city vistas.
University of Washington Campus – Classic architecture and green lawns (cherry blossoms in spring!).
Alki Beach & Seacrest Park – Beachfront with space for silhouettes and relaxed coastal portraits.
Pioneer Square & Occidental Square – Brick alleys and historic architecture for a timeless urban feel.
North of Seattle
Just a short drive north, these spots are perfect for seniors who want water, lighthouses, small-town character, or scenic town centers:
Mukilteo Lighthouse Park – Iconic lighthouse by Puget Sound with pebble beach and golden evening light — perfect for soft, relaxed portraits.
Edmonds Waterfront – A classic beach and ferry backdrop with wide views of water and skyline — great for sunset shots.
Downtown Edmonds – Quaint streets, murals, shops, and boutique vibes add visual interest to senior galleries.
Everett Marina & Waterfront – Nautical views with boats and water for breezy, reflective shots.
Evergreen Arboretum & Gardens (Everett) – Broaden your nature-filled options with themed garden areas and blossoms.
Downtown Snohomish – Historic main street, river views, and charming backdrops perfect for urban-but-small-town portraits.
Jennings Memorial Park is the jewel of Marysville, WA. It sits on about 30 acres and is made up of three play areas for kids, a fishing/frogging pond, a multi-use sports field, a botanical garden, and nature trails.
East of Seattle (Eastside + Mountains)
For seniors who want open fields, forest trails, river vistas, or mountain silhouettes, head east:
Marymoor Park (Redmond) – Wide open fields, trails, river paths, and a diversity of natural backdrops make this park a versatile choice.
Juanita Bay Park (Kirkland) – Wetland boardwalks and soft natural light next to water for tranquil portraits.
Bellevue Botanical Garden – Layered gardens, paths, and seasonal blooms offer elegant, nature-rich options.
Phantom Lake Park (Bellevue) – A lovely lakeside path and wooded areas great for relaxed outdoor sessions.
Sammamish River Trail & Sixty Acres Park (Redmond) – Soft light along the riverbank and open fields that are perfect for golden hour.
Rattlesnake Lake & Tanner Landing Park (North Bend) – Mountain lake views + riverside portraits with Mt. Si peeking through — a spectacular backdrop for anyone who loves nature.
Tips for Choosing Your Backdrop
- Think about mood: Urban vs nature, dramatic vs soft.
- Schedule for light: Golden hour makes beaches and open fields glow.
- Match outfits to vibe: Earthy tones for forests, crisp neutrals for urban settings.
- Consider variety: Choose spots where you can easily pivot between backgrounds in one session.
Contact Chad Bridwell Photography 206-683-4942 to schedule your Senior Photos in one of these amazing locations.
If you are looking something a little more adventurous to your high school senior photos check out Seattle Adventure Senior Photos