While it may seem premature to think about springtime wildflowers when winter is still in the air, early planning is key if you want to secure one of the most beautiful, natural backdrops available for family or couple sessions in the Columbia River Gorge. The wildflower season doesn’t last long, and its prime time—late April to early May—offers a brief window to capture stunning images among fields of vibrant blossoms.
During this short but spectacular season, I offer only one photography session per sunset, and occasionally one at sunrise. By limiting bookings, I’m able to provide my full attention to each family or couple, ensuring a relaxed, personalized experience and, most importantly, access to the very best light conditions for photography. This kind of lighting brings a magical glow to each image, illuminating the colors of the wildflowers and creating a dreamy atmosphere you simply can’t replicate at other times of the year.
Spring always seems to sneak up on us. One day, the trees are bare, and the next, nature bursts into color. That’s why it’s crucial to secure your session now before the calendar fills up. These sessions are ideal for families wanting to preserve memories in a scenic location or for couples looking to celebrate their bond with images set against a backdrop of natural beauty.
The Beauty of the Columbia River Gorge in Spring
The Columbia River Gorge transforms in spring into a lush, colorful paradise. Known for its breathtaking views, cascading waterfalls, and dramatic cliffs, the gorge becomes even more magical when the wildflowers bloom. Yellow balsamroot and purple lupine are the stars of the show, stretching across the hillsides and meadows like something out of a fairytale. These iconic blossoms create vibrant textures and colors that add depth and emotion to every photo.
What’s truly special about photographing in the Gorge is the diversity of natural elements. It's not just flowers. The sessions take place near or in Mosier, Oregon, a town less than 90 minutes from Portland. This area offers not only vibrant wildflower fields but also gnarled, picturesque trees, stunning mountain vistas, and panoramic river views. These elements combine to form a multifaceted canvas that gives you more than just floral scenery. You get the feeling of wild openness, the grandeur of the landscape, and the intimacy of close-up blooms—all in one location.
Each wildflower session becomes a journey. Whether you're capturing your family playing together or creating tender moments between you and your partner, the natural beauty of the area enhances every emotion and makes each image timeless. The light, the movement of the wind, and the changing hues of sunset all come together to craft an unforgettable experience.
Unique Wildflower Locations Near Mosier, Oregon
Over time, I’ve carefully scouted several gorgeous and unique wildflower locations in the Mosier area. This region is one of the closest places to Portland where you can experience the full beauty of spring wildflowers in the Gorge. What makes Mosier truly special is how compact yet varied it is. All my favorite photo spots are within an eight-minute drive of each other, allowing you the flexibility to explore more than one location during your session if you wish.
Some areas require very little walking, which makes them perfect for families with young children or anyone with mobility considerations. At the same time, other locations offer breathtaking views for those willing to venture a bit farther on foot. From rolling hills to scenic cliffs, there is a range of environments to match your comfort level and desired backdrop. And don’t worry—if cliffs sound a bit intimidating, we can stay farther back and still capture fields of flowers with dramatic scenery in the background. Your safety and comfort are always a priority.
Once you book your session, you’ll receive a detailed location guide that includes descriptions and photos of my top four wildflower spots in Mosier. This guide will help you decide which place suits your vision best, whether you want to focus on flower-filled fields, sweeping river vistas, or enchanting tree-covered trails. And if you’re not sure what’s right for you, I’ll help you choose based on your family dynamics, mobility, and what kind of story you want your photos to tell.
Timing Is Everything: When Wildflowers Are in Bloom
Each year, the timing of the bloom varies slightly depending on weather and temperature shifts, but in general, the yellow balsamroot and purple lupine begin to peak between April 20 and April 26. This is when the hills come alive with bright, saturated color, and the light dances beautifully over the petals during the golden hour.
If your schedule doesn’t align with this peak period, don’t worry. Later in May and even early June still offer great opportunities. During these times, different wildflowers begin to bloom, creating fields of purples, blues, and greens. I also know of a lesser-known location that bursts into a giant field of purple wildflowers and tall grass in late spring. It’s a hidden gem that I reserve for clients who want a slightly different, more exclusive look.
By booking in advance, you ensure flexibility in selecting the ideal date for your vision. You'll also have first pick of available sunset or sunrise sessions, which sell out quickly. And because I focus on quality over quantity, your session will never feel rushed. This gives you the freedom to relax, enjoy the moment, and let the natural scenery inspire authentic connection and joy.
What’s Included in a Wildflower Photography Session
Your session with me is not just about taking photos. It’s about creating an experience that feels meaningful, supportive, and easy from start to finish. That begins with personalized attention and extends to every element of your session, from styling to image delivery.
All clients gain full access to my curated client closet, which includes a wide selection of dresses and outfits designed to photograph beautifully in natural light and floral settings. This collection includes clothing for women and children, carefully chosen for their textures, colors, and comfort. If you’ve ever been overwhelmed with trying to shop for a session, only to find out something doesn’t fit or look right, this is your solution. You can try items ahead of time, select what works best, and show up to your session already styled with confidence.
If you prefer to wear your clothing, that’s fine too. I’m happy to help you coordinate colors and styles, create visual style boards, and even send you direct links to purchase items online that fit your vision. The goal is always to ensure your family or couple’s session feels cohesive and effortless while still reflecting your personality and taste.
Once your shoot begins, you’ll quickly notice that I tailor every session to fit you and your loved ones. For families with kids, I incorporate games, playful prompts, and moments of exploration to keep the energy light and the mood joyful. I guide you when needed, but also know when to step back and let spontaneous interactions unfold. For couples, I focus on movement, closeness, and connection. Whether it’s dancing in a field, walking hand in hand by the river, or sharing a quiet embrace, I capture the essence of your relationship through simple, authentic gestures.
Every session is unique because every family and couple is different. I adapt based on your energy level, comfort in front of the camera, and any special needs or requests. The result is a gallery of images that feels real, personal, and completely you.
Styling Made Simple with a Client Closet and Personalized Guidance
One of the most challenging parts of preparing for a photo session is figuring out what everyone should wear. The right outfit can make or break a photo, not because of fashion trends or brand names, but because clothing has the power to influence mood, movement, and visual harmony. To ease this process, I provide full access to my client closet when you book a wildflower session with me.
The closet is filled with carefully chosen items—soft textures, neutral or pastel tones, flowy fabrics, and flattering silhouettes—that photograph beautifully in wildflower fields. These pieces are meant to complement the natural surroundings without clashing with the vibrant colors of the flowers or the golden glow of the sun. There are dresses in various sizes for women, and coordinated pieces for babies, toddlers, and children up to pre-teen years. Each item has been tried and tested in outdoor settings and selected for comfort, style, and versatility.
When you book, I’ll help you select outfits based on your family size, color preferences, and comfort levels. We’ll consider the location’s natural palette and lighting conditions, as well as your style. If Dad already has an outfit he likes or if your child insists on wearing a favorite pair of shoes, we’ll build your look around those elements. I can create visual style boards to help you imagine how everyone’s clothing will come together in the scene. If needed, I’ll also send you links to purchase pieces online that will coordinate well with the overall vibe.
For those who want to wear their clothing, I’m happy to guide you through that process, too. I’ll recommend color schemes that work best in the Gorge during wildflower season, typically soft earth tones, gentle neutrals, light pinks, warm rusts, or dusty blues. These tones play beautifully with the deep yellows of the balsamroot flowers, the purples of the lupines, and the green hills that stretch behind you.
My goal is not to make everyone match but to create visual harmony. I want your family to feel like themselves while also looking their best. Coordinating clothing doesn’t have to mean identical outfits. It means colors that flow well together, layers that add texture, and accessories that highlight your individuality without distracting from the emotion of the moment. When everyone feels good in what they’re wearing, it shows in the photographs.
Creating a Relaxed and Memorable Experience
What sets a wildflower session apart from a standard studio photo shoot is the experience itself. You're not just standing in front of a backdrop. You're walking among blooming hillsides, breathing in fresh mountain air, feeling the wind in your hair, and connecting with your loved ones in an environment that invites laughter and exploration.
From the moment you arrive, my goal is to make you feel at ease. There is no pressure to pose perfectly or to look a certain way. Instead, I guide you with gentle prompts and fun activities designed to encourage natural interaction. For families, this might include playful games, storytelling, movement-based tasks, or cuddles on a blanket. For couples, I’ll suggest walking, spinning, hand-holding, or simply leaning into each other as the sun dips below the horizon.
Sessions typically begin with a little structure—some direction to help you get comfortable in front of the camera. But as the session progresses, the atmosphere becomes more fluid. I’ll step back when needed, allowing space for candid moments. Kids may start to run and explore. Parents might kneel and gather them in a quiet hug. Couples may find themselves lost in conversation, sharing a private smile. These are the moments I look for—the ones that aren’t forced or staged, but real and full of heart.
Every session is customized based on your energy level, comfort, and dynamics. Some families are outgoing and playful from the start. Others may need more time to warm up. Some couples want dreamy romance. Others want simplicity and calm. I read the room, adapt accordingly, and allow your true personalities to guide the flow of the shoot.
Music can also be part of your session. I’ll often bring a small speaker and play soft background tunes to set the mood. This works especially well for dancing, walking, or calming little ones who need something familiar and soothing. Music helps create a rhythm and mood that carries through the photos. It’s subtle but powerful.
The result of all this effort is a session that feels less like a formal appointment and more like a special memory. You’ll leave not only with a gallery of beautiful images but with the feeling that you’ve just shared a meaningful moment in a breathtaking place.
What to Expect in Your Final Image Gallery
After your session, I carefully sort and edit every photo, curating a gallery that reflects the full story of your experience. My editing style is timeless and warm, designed to enhance natural colors and light while preserving skin tones and the beauty of the landscape. I don’t overly retouch or rely on filters. Instead, I focus on refining the images to highlight emotion, connection, and the unique beauty of the Gorge in bloom.
You’ll receive an online gallery with all the best images from your session, at least 60 professionally edited photographs. I believe you deserve to see the full story of your session without having to make tough decisions about which images to keep. This way, every little moment is preserved—from the first shy smiles to the quiet hugs at sunset.
Your gallery is delivered through a user-friendly platform where you can view, download, and share your images. You’ll also have access to a built-in professional print shop. This makes it easy to turn your photos into physical keepsakes: wall art, canvases, heirloom-quality albums, framed prints, and more. These products are crafted by professional labs that prioritize quality and color accuracy, ensuring your memories are preserved for years to come.
You’ll also receive a print release. This means you can print your photos at any lab of your choice if that’s what you prefer. However, I always recommend printing through the gallery for the best results. Cheap labs can distort colors or reduce image sharpness, and after all the care we’ve put into your session, you deserve nothing less than the best.
I encourage clients to think beyond the digital. Your images are meant to be seen, held, and displayed. Whether it’s a large canvas in your living room, a series of prints down your hallway, or an album on your coffee table, these photos will serve as daily reminders of a moment you shared—when the flowers were blooming, the sun was shining, and your love was in full color.
Preparing for Your Wildflower Session: Tips for a Smooth Experience
To make the most of your wildflower session, a little preparation goes a long way. The experience is meant to be fun and stress-free, and these simple tips can help set the tone for a successful shoot.
First, consider making the session part of a weekend trip or a day adventure. Because Mosier is a bit of a drive from Portland, many families choose to stay overnight in nearby Hood River or The Dalles. Both towns offer charming accommodations, great restaurants, and beautiful scenery. Turning the session into a mini-vacation helps take the pressure off and makes the experience feel like a celebration, not a chore.
If you’re bringing kids, let them be kids. The more freedom they have to be themselves, the happier and more cooperative they’ll be. Don’t stress about them sitting still or smiling on command. If they’re being silly, let them. If they want to explore, explore with them. My approach is child-led and designed to meet them where they are. I’ll offer prompts and games that guide them into the photos we want without forcing unnatural behavior.
Another great tip is to plan a treat afterwards. This could be a stop for ice cream, a dinner out, or even a fun nature walk nearby. Framing the photo session as part of a larger day of fun helps keep the mood light and positive. When kids know that something special is coming, they’re more likely to be engaged and cooperative. It’s not about bribing—it’s about extending the joy.
Punctuality also makes a big difference. Arrive at the location early so you can settle in, change clothes if needed, and get familiar with the surroundings. When you’re not rushed, your whole demeanor changes. You’re calmer, more present, and able to enjoy the experience without feeling flustered. That relaxed energy will show in your photos.
Lastly, bring snacks, drinks, and anything else you need to feel comfortable. Think water bottles, baby wipes, comfortable shoes, a blanket to sit on, or a backup outfit just in case. I’ll bring everything we need on my end, but anything that makes your family feel more at home is always welcome.
Booking Your Wildflower Session in the Columbia River Gorge
Once you’ve decided to move forward with a wildflower session, the next step is booking your spot. Because of the limited number of sessions I offer—one per sunset and occasionally one at sunrise—it’s essential to reserve early. The wildflower season in the Columbia River Gorge is short and sought-after, so dates tend to fill up weeks or even months in advance.
Booking is made easy through my online scheduling system. Once on the booking page, you’ll be able to view a calendar of available dates for late April through early June. You can select your preferred time slot and photographer, enter your details, and reserve your session with a deposit. The system is designed to be quick and straightforward, so you can secure your place in just a few minutes.
Upon booking, you’ll receive a detailed welcome email with everything you need to prepare for your session. This includes my exclusive location guide with images and descriptions of my favorite wildflower spots, as well as information about what to wear, what to expect, and how to make the most of the experience. I’ll also send a styling questionnaire to begin the wardrobe planning process, along with access to my client's closet inventory.
If you have questions before booking or want to confirm availability for a specific date, you’re welcome to reach out directly. I’m happy to answer any questions about the session flow, what to expect with young children, or how we can customize your experience to match your vision.
For families with very young children, it may be helpful to choose an earlier sunset session, which ensures we finish before bedtime. For couples looking for a romantic mood, the last golden light of the evening often produces the most dramatic and intimate images. I’ll help you decide which timing is best based on your preferences and needs.
The earlier you book, the more flexibility you’ll have to choose your preferred date, location, and time. Early booking also allows more time for outfit planning, travel arrangements, and creating excitement around the experience. Whether this session is part of a milestone, a gift, or simply a way to celebrate the beauty of the season, locking in your date early helps guarantee everything unfolds smoothly.
Meet My Associate Photographer: Claudia
In order to serve more families and couples while still maintaining the quality and care that I pride myself on, I’ve partnered with an incredible associate photographer, Claudia. Claudia shares my artistic vision, attention to detail, and passion for creating meaningful, heartfelt images. She has been trained in my unique approach to wildflower sessions and brings her warmth, creativity, and professionalism to every shoot.
When booking a wildflower session, you’ll have the option to choose either me or Claudia as your photographer. If your preferred date is already booked on my calendar, you may still find openings with Claudia. This allows us to accommodate more clients without compromising on experience or quality.
Claudia has a natural gift for capturing real emotion. Her sessions are filled with laughter, movement, and gentle guidance. She works beautifully with children, helping them feel at ease and encouraging them to explore their surroundings. Her calm energy is especially helpful with larger families or kids who need extra time to warm up. She’s also fantastic with couples, creating images that feel effortless, organic, and full of connection.
If you're booking an extended family session, Claudia is often the best choice. She excels at managing groups, creating cohesive images, and working through the additional complexity that comes with multiple families. Since pricing and timing for extended family sessions can vary, it's best to message us directly for a custom quote and to ensure the best fit for your needs.
Just like with sessions photographed by me, you’ll receive full styling support, access to the client closet, and a beautifully edited gallery with all the best images from your session. Claudia’s editing style is aligned with mine—natural, timeless, and warm—so you can expect consistency and quality whether you’re photographed by her or by me.
Our goal is to ensure every client receives a personalized, joyful experience regardless of which photographer they work with. We collaborate closely on every detail to make that possible. By offering two highly trained photographers, we’re able to serve more families during peak wildflower season while still keeping each session intimate, relaxed, and full of intention.
Customizing Your Session for Meaningful Memories
Every family and couple is unique, and I believe your session should reflect who you are, not just what you look like. That’s why each wildflower photography session is fully customizable, from the location we choose to the activities we incorporate and the moments we focus on capturing.
For families, I’ll take time to understand your children’s personalities, energy levels, and comfort zones. If your toddler loves to run, we’ll lean into that movement. If your baby prefers to be held close, we’ll create tender, cozy scenes that highlight that bond. If your older child is more reserved, I’ll build trust gently through soft direction and quiet moments.
We can bring along a favorite blanket, a toy, or even a picnic setup if that feels authentic to you. These small details help your session feel more personal and less posed. Whether you’re hoping for playful candid images, serene portraits, or a mix of both, I’ll adapt the session to reflect your family’s dynamic and preserve what makes you unique.
For couples, customization might mean revisiting a special place in the Gorge or incorporating an activity you love. Maybe you dance together barefoot in the field, share a quiet moment near the river, or simply walk hand in hand through the flowers. You don’t need to prepare or perform—just be present. I’ll take care of guiding you and capturing the magic that unfolds naturally.
Some couples use the session as a celebration of an anniversary, an engagement, or the anticipation of a new chapter. Others just want beautiful photos to remember a season of life when everything was still and peaceful. Whatever your reason, we’ll craft a session that honors your story.
Location choice also plays a role in customization. Some areas are perfect for dramatic scenery and big open skies. Others offer more privacy, shade, or close-ups of delicate blooms. After you book, we’ll review the different options in Mosier and choose the one that best fits your goals. You also have the option to split your session across two nearby locations, giving you even more variety in your final gallery.
Wildflower sessions are designed to feel like an adventure rather than an appointment. Whether you come dressed in flowing gowns or barefoot in jeans, the experience is about emotion, nature, and connection. It’s not about looking perfect. It’s about preserving the beauty of your life just as it is right now—in full bloom.
Why These Sessions Are More Than Just Photographs
At the heart of every wildflower photography session is a desire to pause time. To freeze a feeling, a glance, a laugh, a moment of wonder. The blooms may last only a few short weeks, but the emotions they inspire—joy, peace, love—can last a lifetime through the images we create together.
These sessions are not just about wildflowers. They’re about presence. About giving yourself permission to slow down, breathe in the mountain air, and be fully with your loved ones. In a world that moves quickly and demands so much of us, these sessions offer a gentle reminder to cherish what matters most.
The images you receive are a visual story. They’re for now and for later. For grandparents who live far away. For friends who celebrate with you. For your children to see how they were held, loved, and cherished. For future generations to witness a family legacy rooted in nature and tenderness.
Photographs have a way of anchoring us. They transport us back to a time and place where the sun was warm, the flowers were in bloom, and you were together. They offer a visual memory that you can return to again and again, no matter how much time has passed.
That’s why I put so much care into every step—from planning to wardrobe to shooting and editing. I know that what we create together will become part of your story. A piece of your family’s history. A reminder of joy that you can hang on the wall or tuck into an album and pass down someday.
It’s easy to put off photos. To say, “maybe next year,” or “once things slow down.” But nature waits for no one, and neither does time. Your children will only be this small once. Your relationship will continue to grow and change. The flowers will bloom and fade. Now is the time to capture it all—before the moment slips quietly away.
Immersing in the Wildflower Season: A Photographer’s Perspective
As the wildflower season reaches its peak, the Columbia River Gorge transforms into a canvas of surreal color and vibrancy. For photographers, this is the most magical and fleeting time of year. The dance between golden sunlight, windswept blooms, and rolling hills inspires a kind of creativity that’s hard to summon elsewhere.
Every click of the shutter is a silent celebration of spring’s fleeting essence. From the perspective of a seasoned photographer, the wildflower season is not just about capturing beautiful portraits, but about syncing with the rhythm of nature. It’s waking up at 4 a.m. to catch the perfect dawn light, waiting patiently for the wind to settle, and sometimes just being still and letting the moment unfold naturally.
What makes the Columbia Gorge stand out isn’t just its physical beauty—it’s the ever-changing conditions. Light shifts dramatically by the hour. Clouds roll in from the west, casting dynamic shadows over the meadows. Rain showers may break through, only to be followed moments later by rainbows stretching across the cliffs. It's unpredictable—and that’s exactly what makes it epic.
Behind the Lens: Creating Connection in a Wild Setting
A common misconception about wildflower sessions is that they are purely aesthetic. In truth, these sessions are deeply emotional, both for the subjects and the photographer. Surrounded by wild nature, people let go. They feel small, connected, and grounded. Families laugh freely. Couples hold each other a little tighter. Children, excited by the buzzing bees and swaying petals, forget the camera is even there.
As a photographer, the goal isn't to pose people stiffly in front of a scenic view. It’s to guide them into interaction with each other, with the setting, and with their natural energy. Encouragements like “walk slowly and just talk to each other,” or “feel the wind, close your eyes, and breathe it in,” often lead to the most authentic images.
The Columbia Gorge, with its open fields and secret trails, gives enough space for people to feel uninhibited. It’s not a studio with lights and white walls—it’s a real, living world where emotions feel more vivid.
Style and Aesthetic: Crafting a Signature Look in the Gorge
Wildflower sessions in the Columbia Gorge often inspire photographers to develop a unique visual language. Whether you're drawn to light and airy tones or rich and moody contrasts, the landscape is versatile enough to support a variety of styles.
Some photographers prefer soft golden-hour hues, capturing the warmth of late afternoon sun as it spills over hills covered in balsamroot. Others might favor dramatic stormlight, where deep shadows and sharp light create an epic mood. Then some shoot in overcast weather, appreciating how the clouds act as a giant softbox, bringing out the detail in both skin tones and petals.
Styling also plays a major role. Outfits with flowing fabrics, muted earth tones, or vintage florals tend to complement the natural backdrop. Clients are often encouraged to wear clothing that allows movement—think long dresses, scarves, or open cardigans that flutter with the breeze.
Moreover, props are rarely needed. A single wildflower picked and held gently in hand, or a blanket laid across the field, is often all it takes to add a layer of intimacy and storytelling.
Logistical Considerations: Timing, Access, and Weather Challenges
Photographing in the Columbia River Gorge requires both preparation and flexibility. Here’s what photographers and clients alike need to keep in mind for a seamless session:
Timing is Everything
The wildflower bloom is incredibly brief, usually lasting just a few weeks between late March and early May, depending on elevation and rainfall. Photographers must stay tuned to weather updates, local bloom trackers, and even hiker reports to gauge when specific locations are at peak bloom.
Because of the popularity of certain areas, sessions must often be scheduled during off-hours—early morning or weekday evenings—to avoid crowds and ensure privacy.
Permits and Regulations
Some parts of the Gorge fall under state or federal protection. Depending on where the session is held, a photography permit may be required. It’s essential to check with local authorities such as the U.S. Forest Service or Oregon State Parks.
Also, many areas enforce “Leave No Trace” guidelines strictly. That means staying on trails, avoiding trampling blooms, and refraining from picking wildflowers.
Weather Unpredictability
The Gorge is notorious for its microclimates. Wind can be intense, particularly near Rowena Crest or Vista House. Rain can move in swiftly from the west. It’s crucial to bring weather-appropriate gear (umbrellas, waterproof boots, extra blankets) and to build buffer time into your shoot schedule.
Ethical Photography and Environmental Stewardship
One of the most critical conversations in the world of wildflower photography is about sustainability and ethical practices. The Columbia River Gorge is a fragile ecosystem, and with the increasing popularity of social media and “Instagram spots,” some locations have suffered significant environmental degradation.
Photographers have a responsibility—not just to capture beauty, but to protect it. That means:
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Educating clients about staying on paths and avoiding sensitive bloom areas
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Never staging shots that require stepping into dense flower fields.
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Picking up all trash and leaving the area better than it was found
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Reporting invasive plant species or damaged trails to local land managers
Some photographers have even taken on roles as local conservation advocates, organizing cleanup days or posting educational content online. The more we all understand the impact of our presence, the more sustainable these sessions can become for future generations.
Conclusion:
There’s something sacred about photographing people among wildflowers. It’s not just the visual result—it’s the experience. The softness of a warm breeze, the buzz of bees drifting between petals, the quiet joy of a child discovering nature, the overwhelming scale of mountains and meadows—all of it leaves a lasting impression.
In many ways, wildflower sessions are more than a seasonal service—they're emotional time capsules. Families look back at these images and remember a specific kind of day. A day of freedom. A day where nature cradled their memories gently in the arms of spring.
For the photographer, the reward is just as deep. It’s in knowing that you didn't just take photos—you helped someone feel connected: to the land, to their loved ones, and themselves.
As long as the Gorge continues to bloom, and as long as people continue to seek beauty in nature, the art of wildflower photography here will remain timeless.