Nestled just outside of Portland, in the northern part of Vancouver, Washington, lies a picturesque alpaca farm that offers an unforgettable photography experience. This unique farm, run by a passionate and welcoming family, provides an idyllic backdrop for families, couples, and individuals seeking something whimsical, calm, and naturally beautiful. The opportunity to take part in a photo session here feels like stepping into a peaceful, storybook setting—where the stars just happen to be gentle, furry alpacas.
This location isn’t just photogenic. It’s alive with character. Imagine wide, open pastures filled with tall grasses waving in the wind, majestic trees casting soft shadows, and the golden hue of the setting sun illuminating the cozy scene. And then, right in the middle of it all, alpacas—soft, curious, and full of personality—wandering close enough to nuzzle your hand or poke their noses into the frame. That’s the kind of magic these sessions offer.
For those living in or visiting the Portland area, this kind of experience is rare and memorable. You’re not going to find it at just any public park or studio. The alpaca farm offers a peaceful alternative to the hustle of the city, replacing noise and stress with the quiet company of nature and the playful curiosity of animals.
As a photographer, having nearly exclusive access to this farm means I can offer something personal and intimate, without crowds, distractions, or overused backgrounds. Every session here feels special. Whether you're celebrating a milestone, updating your family portraits, or simply wanting an escape from routine, the alpaca farm offers a space to breathe, connect, and create lasting memories.
Let’s explore how it all works and what you can expect before, during, and after your session at this wonderful farm.
What to Expect When You Arrive at the Alpaca Farm
The moment you arrive, you’ll feel it—that sense of being welcomed into a place where time slows down. There’s a gentle quiet to the area, interrupted only by the occasional chirping bird or soft humming sound of an alpaca communicating with its herd. The farm owners are usually the first to greet you, always with a smile and an offer to answer any questions about their beloved animals.
One of the farm owners will be present throughout the session to ensure everything runs smoothly and safely. Their familiarity with the animals makes them the perfect guide, helping each family member—whether adult, child, or teen—feel comfortable around the alpacas. Their passion for these animals is clear, and their calm, friendly demeanor puts even the most hesitant guests at ease.
You’ll meet a small number of alpacas right away, and if this is your first time seeing one up close, prepare for a delightful surprise. With their fluffy faces, long lashes, and curious personalities, alpacas have a way of instantly charming everyone around them. They’re sociable, gentle, and surprisingly funny, each with its unique temperament.
This part of the session is important for helping everyone—especially young children—acclimate to the animals and the space. We’ll start slowly, letting you observe and interact with the alpacas in a relaxed, low-pressure environment. There’s no rush. The goal is to create a comfortable rhythm so that everyone feels excited, not overwhelmed.
The farm setting, with its soft natural light and scenic surroundings, immediately becomes the perfect canvas for storytelling through photography. Whether we’re capturing quiet moments of connection or bursts of laughter as an alpaca unexpectedly tickles someone’s palm, the atmosphere sets the tone for authenticity and joy.
Feeding the Alpacas: A Delightful Start
One of the most interactive—and heartwarming—parts of the session is feeding time. The alpacas know the routine well, and once they see the treats coming out, they’ll happily wander over to investigate. You’ll be given small handfuls of their favorite food, and before you know it, you’ll be hand-feeding these furry creatures as they gently nibble from your palm.
This part of the session is often when everyone relaxes the most. There’s something grounding about feeding animals—especially ones as kind and gentle as alpacas. Kids absolutely love this part. Their faces light up with wonder and surprise as they connect directly with the animals, while adults are often just as captivated.
From a photography standpoint, this is a goldmine. Natural expressions, real smiles, moments of connection—these are the things that can’t be posed or recreated. The photos taken during feeding time often end up being some of the most cherished, as they capture not only the interactions with the animals but also the closeness between family members as they share in the experience.
Depending on how things flow, we might stay in the feeding area for a while or transition naturally to the pasture. The feeding area itself is visually rich, with fencing that frames the scene nicely, lots of soft light, and curious alpacas eager to photobomb in the best possible way.
It’s also worth noting that the alpacas are extremely well taken care of, and their comfort is always a top priority. The farm owners keep a close eye on their behavior and energy levels to make sure they’re happy to participate. If any of them seem tired or want a break, the owner will gently guide them back to their pen and bring out another one who’s ready to mingle. This ensures that the animals remain stress-free and the experience stays positive for everyone involved.
Strolling Through the Pasture with Your New Furry Friends
After we’ve fed the alpacas and everyone has had time to settle in, it’s time to go on a walk—yes, with the alpacas! The owners usually select one or two especially friendly alpacas for this part of the session and fit them with bridles. Together, we’ll head toward the back of the property, where open fields, soft dirt paths, and rows of trees make for the perfect photo trail.
This part of the session feels like something out of a dream. Imagine your family walking hand-in-hand with these curious creatures by your side, the sun casting a warm glow across your shoulders, and not another soul around. It’s peaceful, slow, and full of small moments that make for stunning photographs.
We’ll stop along the way to take photos at different spots—beside a grove of trees, near the edge of the tall grass, under a wide stretch of sky. You’ll get the chance to pet the alpacas, snuggle up next to them, and even pose for a few more structured shots if you’d like. Most families choose to go with the flow here, letting their kids lead the way and interact naturally while I quietly capture each smile and laugh as it unfolds.
If your group includes older children or teenagers, and you’d like to walk more than two alpacas, just let the owner know in advance. They’re always happy to prepare for a bigger group, as long as they know what to expect.
This walk isn’t rushed. We take our time. That’s part of what makes the session so special. There’s no pressure to perform or pose perfectly. The experience is designed to be enjoyable for everyone involved, especially the alpacas. It’s more like a mini outdoor adventure than a traditional photo shoot.
At the end of the walk, we’ll gently guide the alpacas back to their pasture to rest and recharge, while you and your family prepare for the final portion of the session—a more classic portrait time on the scenic parts of the farm.
Wrapping Up with Classic Portraits and Family Moments
Once the alpacas have completed their part of the session and been guided back to their pasture, we shift into the more traditional photo session experience. But even here, the energy is still light, joyful, and relaxed. Everyone has already spent time laughing, feeding, and walking with the alpacas, so any initial nervousness has melted away. This is when people tend to feel most comfortable in front of the camera, and that comfort shines through in the final images.
The property offers a variety of beautiful spots for portraits—each one unique and brimming with natural charm. Tall grasses sway softly in the breeze, and mature trees stretch out across the sky, their branches catching the golden glow of the setting sun. There might be flowers in bloom depending on the season, or leaves turning brilliant shades of red and gold in the fall. Every time of year adds its own kind of beauty.
At this stage, we’ll take time to photograph your family in more intimate groupings. Parents cuddling their toddlers on a soft blanket, siblings running together across the grass, couples holding hands under the trees—whatever natural moments unfold, we’ll capture them. There’s space for both posed and candid images, and we can easily blend the two as needed.
Children often want to continue playing, and that’s perfectly fine. In fact, the more fun they’re having, the more natural the expressions will be. Sometimes, the most memorable images come from a game of tag, a shared giggle between siblings, or a moment of stillness when a child quietly observes the world around them. These are the photos that tell stories—the ones that last far beyond the moment they’re taken.
We’ll also make sure to take some group photos of the entire family together. These are often the ones that end up on walls and in holiday cards. I’ll guide you gently into positions that look good on camera while still feeling natural and unforced. The idea is to keep things light, letting personalities shine through without the stiffness of traditional studio setups.
The lighting here plays a huge role in the quality of the photos. Depending on the time of day, especially during the golden hour in the late afternoon, the light is soft, warm, and incredibly flattering. It creates a romantic, nostalgic glow that enhances skin tones and makes every frame feel magical. The sun filters through the trees and reflects off the grass, wrapping everything in a warm embrace.
This part of the session usually lasts between 20 to 30 minutes, depending on the family size, energy levels, and how things are flowing. Because we’ve already spent a good portion of the time walking and interacting with the alpacas, we don’t need a long traditional shoot to complete the experience. The variety and richness of the earlier moments carry through, and this final stretch simply rounds out the session with classic, beautiful imagery.
Creating a Comfortable Experience for Everyone
One of the things that makes these sessions stand out is how easy and enjoyable they are for families. Many people come into photo shoots feeling nervous—especially if they’ve had awkward or rushed experiences in the past. But here, surrounded by nature and adorable animals, it’s hard not to feel at ease. The environment itself works in our favor.
Children, especially, respond well to the open space and the gentle energy of the alpacas. Unlike being cooped up in a studio or told to sit still on a bench in a public park, they’re free to roam a little, to explore, and to experience something completely new. The excitement of feeding an alpaca or holding its lead rope adds a sense of adventure that turns the session into an event, not just an appointment.
Parents love it because they don’t have to stress about keeping their kids still or making them smile on command. In fact, I encourage just the opposite. Let them run, let them laugh, let them be themselves. Those are the moments that matter most—and they’re the ones that translate beautifully into photographs.
For couples or individuals, the experience is equally relaxing. The peaceful farm surroundings, the quiet companionship of the animals, and the slow pace of the session all contribute to a sense of calm. Whether you’re celebrating a relationship, an engagement, or simply your connection with nature, the alpaca farm provides the perfect backdrop for intimate, emotive portraits.
Even teens and older kids, who sometimes struggle to engage in traditional family shoots, often find themselves surprised at how much they enjoy this one. The novelty of being on a farm, interacting with animals, and having the space to move and express themselves usually brings out genuine smiles and laughter.
As a photographer, my goal is to support this natural flow. I guide gently, suggest poses when needed, and stay in tune with the energy of the group. There’s no pressure to perform or meet unrealistic expectations. The result is a gallery of images that feels like you—authentic, full of life, and deeply connected.
Why the Alpaca Farm Stands Out as a Photography Location
There are many beautiful places around Portland and Vancouver to take family or couple portraits—parks, gardens, waterfronts—but the alpaca farm offers something rare: an experience. It’s not just about standing in front of a pretty backdrop and smiling. It’s about participating in something joyful and unique, where the photos are a natural byproduct of time well spent.
This farm in particular is special for several reasons. First, it’s private and peaceful. That means no waiting for other people to clear out of the frame, no cars in the background, and no distractions. The entire space is dedicated to your session. You can breathe, move, and relax knowing you’re in a safe, serene environment.
Second, the farm owners truly care about their animals and their land. They maintain the space beautifully, keep the alpacas healthy and well-loved, and treat each visitor like a welcomed guest. Their passion and hospitality create a feeling of warmth that infuses the entire session.
Third, the versatility of the location is unmatched. Whether we’re photographing toddlers holding alpaca treats, teens strolling along a path with animals in tow, or couples nestled under a tree in golden light, every moment has the potential to be visually rich. You could return for multiple sessions over time—spring, summer, fall—and each one would look and feel entirely different.
The textures and tones on the farm lend themselves especially well to photography. The alpacas, with their soft fleece and curious eyes, add a tactile element to the images. The tall grasses, wooden fences, and wide skies contribute depth and atmosphere. And then there’s the emotional layer—the wonder of children, the laughter of families, the quiet intimacy of couples—all beautifully framed by this magical setting.
It’s no wonder so many people who book one alpaca session end up coming back again. Once you’ve experienced it, it’s hard to imagine going back to a traditional park or studio setup. The connection formed with the animals, the peaceful rhythm of the day, and the resulting photographs make it an experience worth repeating.
What Happens After the Session Ends
After the session wraps up, I’ll guide you back to the main entrance of the farm, where we say goodbye to the alpacas and thank the owners for sharing their space. Many kids (and adults) want to give the alpacas one last gentle pat or wave goodbye, and the animals usually respond in kind—sometimes with a hum or a slow blink that seems to say they enjoyed the day too.
Once you’re on your way home, my work begins behind the scenes. I carefully go through each image, selecting the very best moments and editing them to bring out the richness and warmth of the day. My editing style leans toward natural tones with a slight golden touch—enhancing the farm’s beauty without making anything look artificial.
Within a couple of weeks, you’ll receive your final photo gallery. Depending on the package you selected, it may include a set number of digital images or the full session gallery. Each image will be high-resolution and ready for download, printing, or sharing with loved ones.
Many clients choose to create albums, framed wall art, or keepsake boxes from their alpaca farm sessions. The images lend themselves well to storytelling formats, and the experience behind them adds depth and meaning. Whether it’s a printed photo of your child feeding an alpaca or a framed portrait of your family walking together under the trees, these pieces become more than just decoration—they become part of your personal story.
In addition to the images, you’ll walk away with something even more lasting: the memory of a day spent with your loved ones in a beautiful, unexpected place. A day where you laughed, explored, connected with animals, and created something meaningful. That’s the true value of this session, and it’s what keeps people talking about the alpaca farm long after the photos are taken.
Planning the Perfect Alpaca Farm Session
Booking a photo session at the alpaca farm isn’t just about picking a date—it’s about crafting an experience that’s as stress-free and enjoyable as possible. From the very first conversation, I’ll help guide you through all the decisions that will shape your day: the best time to shoot, what to wear, how to prepare kids, and how to align schedules with the farm’s availability.
Because the alpaca farm is a private family-owned space, it operates on limited availability. That means we’ll need to coordinate with the farm owners to secure a date that works for both your family and theirs. They are incredibly accommodating and excited to share their space with visitors, but respecting their animals’ rest time and personal schedule is a top priority. Once we have a few possible dates in mind, I’ll reach out to confirm availability and lock in the session.
Most sessions are scheduled during late afternoon or early evening hours, especially in spring, summer, and fall. This timing allows us to capture the beautiful golden light that occurs during the final hours of daylight. Known as the golden hour, this time of day is particularly flattering for skin tones and adds a dreamy, warm glow to every photo.
That said, if you have very young children who do better in the morning, we can make adjustments. While early light is cooler in tone, it still works beautifully in the open pastures of the farm. The important thing is ensuring everyone is well-rested, comfortable, and ready to enjoy the session.
Before your scheduled date, I’ll provide you with a preparation guide. This includes tips on wardrobe, suggestions for how to talk to kids about the alpacas in advance, and what to bring along—like snacks, a change of clothes for little ones, or a blanket to sit on during the portrait portion. I’ll also share what not to worry about. These sessions are designed to be easy. There’s no need to stress about perfect behavior or formal posing.
My goal is to make every part of the process—from booking to delivery—simple, warm, and clear. I’ll be available to answer any questions, provide reassurance if it’s your first professional session, and make sure everything is in place before the day arrives.
Seasonal Beauty at the Alpaca Farm
One of the most delightful aspects of the alpaca farm is how it transforms with the seasons. Whether it’s the fresh, blooming fields of spring, the golden haze of summer, the vivid colors of autumn, or the crisp stillness of winter, each time of year offers a completely unique experience.
Spring sessions at the farm are full of life and renewal. The grass is a bright, almost luminous green, and new buds begin to appear on the trees. The alpacas’ fleece is full and fluffy before their early summer shearing, and their energy is playful. Spring light is soft and cool, which brings a calm and peaceful tone to portraits. It’s also a perfect time for sessions with little ones, as the weather is mild and the animals are often particularly energetic.
Summer brings long days and glowing sunsets. The grass grows tall, the trees provide generous shade, and the farm feels alive with golden light. This is when sessions really shine—both literally and emotionally. Families with school-age kids find summer the most convenient, as it allows for weekday evening sessions without worrying about bedtimes or homework.
Autumn transforms the farm into a rich, colorful landscape. Leaves turn from green to amber, orange, and red. The light becomes even more golden, and the alpacas—freshly grown fleece after summer—start to fluff up again. The temperature drops just enough to make cuddling under a blanket a cozy addition to the session. Fall is also ideal for holiday card portraits, anniversary sessions, or capturing milestone moments.
Winter sessions, while less common, hold a quiet beauty. The farm becomes a place of calm reflection, with muted tones and fog-kissed skies. While alpacas don’t love rain, and we avoid wet days, those willing to brave the crisp air will find the experience deeply rewarding. Bundled in winter knits, with the alpacas nearby, the result is a portrait session full of tenderness and stillness.
No matter the season, the farm adjusts its care and routine to make sure the animals are comfortable, which ensures every session feels relaxed and in harmony with nature. You don’t need to worry about working around the animals—they’re part of the rhythm of the space, and the owners are experts at helping guide the experience based on the weather, time of day, and group size.
What to Wear for Your Alpaca Farm Session
Choosing the right clothing for your session can make a big difference—not just in how the photos look, but also in how you feel during the shoot. Outfits should reflect your personal style while also harmonizing with the natural tones and textures of the farm setting.
For women and girls, flowing dresses in soft neutrals or earthy tones photograph beautifully against the greenery and golden light of the pasture. Think warm creams, dusty blues, terracotta, sage, mustard, or soft rose. Light fabrics like cotton, linen, and gauze move gently in the wind and create a sense of ease and elegance.
For men and boys, simple is best. Solid-color shirts, subtle patterns like gingham or stripes, and denim or khaki pants all work well. Muted tones such as navy, olive, tan, and charcoal blend naturally into the environment without clashing. Avoid bright neons, logos, or very busy patterns, which can distract from the connection in your images.
Layering is a great way to add texture and warmth—especially during fall and winter. Cardigans, light sweaters, scarves, or soft jackets can elevate the visual interest of the photos while keeping you comfortable.
Footwear should be practical but tidy. The farm is a working property with uneven ground, so heels are not ideal. Choose flat boots, sandals with support, or clean sneakers. If you have little ones, bring a backup pair of shoes in case of muddy adventures.
For kids, comfort is key. Choose clothes they can move freely in and that reflect their personalities. Don’t worry about matching everyone perfectly—coordinated tones look much more natural than forced uniformity.
And finally, bring layers just in case. The weather in Portland and Vancouver can shift quickly, especially in the shoulder seasons. Having an extra cardigan, blanket, or umbrella tucked into a bag helps us stay prepared while keeping the session relaxed and uninterrupted.
Sessions for Every Kind of Family and Couple
One of the most beautiful aspects of photographing at the alpaca farm is how inclusive and welcoming the space is. Families of every shape, size, and dynamic feel at home here. Whether you’re a traditional nuclear family, a single-parent household, a blended group, a couple with children, or a chosen family, the farm wraps everyone in the same sense of peace and possibility.
Sessions are popular with LGBTQ+ families and couples, especially because the environment is both private and affirming. Many clients have expressed how comfortable they felt being themselves here—hugging, laughing, holding hands—without the self-consciousness that can come from public photo locations. The farm’s owners and everyone involved in the session create an atmosphere of quiet respect and joy. It’s a place where love of all kinds is honored and celebrated.
For couples without children, the alpacas bring a playful, unexpected twist to traditional portraits. You’ll get moments of gentle interaction with the animals, followed by quiet portraits together under the trees or in the open pasture. Engagement sessions here are particularly special because they feel less staged and more like an adventure together.
For families with children, the experience is part-photo session, part-activity day. Kids leave not only with beautiful memories but with the story of the time they got to walk and feed real alpacas. Even shy children often open up during the session, drawn in by the animals’ calm and curious nature.
Clients with accessibility concerns or sensory sensitivities often find this space more manageable than crowded parks or busy urban locations. The pace is slow, the space is open, and there’s always the option to step away for a break. The alpacas themselves are quiet, gentle creatures who respond well to calm voices and steady movements.
There’s no such thing as the “right” type of client for this farm. Everyone is welcome. Every story is valued. Whether you're celebrating a milestone, capturing your family in this moment of life, or simply treating yourselves to a unique experience, the alpaca farm opens its gates with warmth and joy.
Investment and Booking Details for Your Alpaca Session
One of the most common questions people ask is how much it costs to book a session at the alpaca farm. The answer is refreshingly simple. In addition to your standard photography session fee, there is a $100 charge paid directly to the farm. This fee helps support the farm’s operations, compensates the owners for their time, and ensures that the animals are cared for before, during, and after your session.
That $100 gives you access to a peaceful, well-maintained private farm, a guided experience with one or more alpacas, and a calm, welcoming environment for your photo session. It’s a small investment for a unique and joyful memory, especially compared to other venue rentals or studio fees that don’t offer nearly as much charm or interaction.
When you’re ready to book, the process begins with a simple message or inquiry. You’ll let me know that you’re interested in the alpaca farm location, and I’ll check availability with the owners. Because this is a family-run farm and not a commercial event space, their calendar fills based on their personal and animal care schedules. Some dates may be unavailable due to shearing season, weather, or other farm operations, so flexibility is appreciated.
Once a date is confirmed, I’ll guide you through the remaining steps. You’ll receive a session guide with wardrobe tips, directions to the farm, and everything you need to know for a smooth experience. I’ll also ask you a few questions about your group—how many people, ages of children, any mobility needs, and anything else you’d like to share—so that I can tailor the session to fit your needs.
Payment for the session and the farm fee is collected in advance to hold your date. In the event of inclement weather, we can reschedule at no additional cost. The animals’ comfort and your enjoyment are top priorities, so we want to make sure the conditions are right for everyone.
If you’re booking for a special occasion—such as a birthday, engagement, or anniversary—please let me know in advance so we can make space for the kinds of images that feel celebratory and personal. Some families even bring small signs, picnic setups, or meaningful props to make the session even more unique.
A Photo Session That Becomes a Memory
So much of modern life moves quickly. Schedules are packed, moments are rushed, and sometimes even the most joyful experiences feel hurried. The alpaca farm is a space where time slows down. It’s not just a location. It’s a pause, a breath, a soft place to land with the people you love most.
What makes this experience so special is the combination of interaction, emotion, and environment. You’re not just standing in front of a backdrop. You’re feeding alpacas, walking among trees, laughing with your children, holding hands with your partner. Every photo is grounded in something real—a moment of connection, a burst of joy, a quiet gaze.
The animals themselves add another layer of magic. There’s something incredibly grounding about being around gentle creatures. They don’t care what you’re wearing or how you’re posing. They just exist, with curiosity and calmness, reminding us to do the same. Their presence naturally relaxes everyone and encourages the kind of natural smiles and candid interactions that can’t be manufactured in a studio.
This session isn’t about perfection. It’s about presence. It’s about remembering what it feels like to be close to nature, to play, to let go of expectations, and to simply enjoy the company of your people. Whether your kids are little and wide-eyed or your teens are more reserved, the alpacas tend to bring out the best in everyone.
Many clients leave the session saying it was more fun than they expected. That they forgot the camera was even there. That their kids talked about the alpacas for days. That it didn’t feel like a photo shoot—it felt like a family outing, an unexpected adventure, a new favorite memory.
That’s what I aim to create every time. Not just beautiful images, but beautiful experiences.
Conclusion
If you’re looking for a photography session that’s more than just posed smiles and stiff backdrops, the alpaca farm offers something genuinely different. It’s peaceful, playful, warm, and full of life. The animals add magic. The landscape adds wonder. The entire experience feels like stepping away from the rush of the world and into a slower, softer kind of moment.
Located just a short drive from Portland, Oregon, in northern Vancouver, Washington, this family-run alpaca farm is a hidden gem—one that opens its gates to families, couples, and anyone wanting more from their photo session than just a pretty picture.