Bluebonnet and wildflower photos are a staple for Texas families. These Bluebonnet photos are a southern tradition, and I truly look forward to capturing them every year. However, as pretty as the flowers may be, capturing beautiful bluebonnet photos is not always easy. Below are some of my tips for creating beautiful bluebonnet portraits during the Texas wildflower season.
#1 Bluebonnet Blooms vary year to year
One of the biggest struggles for photographers is predicting when the bluebonnets will be thriving. Typically, the flowers will bloom late March into Early April; however, every year is different. There are also simply better bluebonnet seasons than others. Drought affects the blooms, and some years are simply better than others. As your photographer, my focus is to scout many areas in central Texas to find hidden gems and spots where wildflowers are starting to develop. I begin scouting about a month before the flowers even blossom. In Feburaury most plants are dead, so it is easier to see the green bluebonnets start to grow.
#2 Watch for Ants and Snakes
Snakes thrive in these flowers, and I always scout the area before we begin a bluebonnet session. Always be cautious and aware. The same thing goes for ants. Spring is when ant piles start to get big. I always suggest that clients wear closed-toe shoes or boots to any Bluebonnet session for safety. Please know as your family photographer, I always bring several blankets and place them in an area free of ants to sit down on comfortably.
#3 Respect the Flowers
These flowers are fragile, and a good spot can be ruined easily. I always tell my clients before our session that we cannot walk directly on the flowers and that they should have that conversation with their children prior to our session. I will show clients where to walk, and typically, there are some great natural trails leading to the flowers that we can use to avoid stepping on them. I will also always make it known that we never pick the flowers.
#4 Styling is important
What you wear to these sessions is especially important for wildflowers and bluebonnet photoshoots. Since the flowers are very vibrant on their own, I always suggest that clients wear spring colors that complement the blooms. Wearing lighter, neutral, and softer, muted colors is best. It is ok to wear blue, but make sure it’s a subtle jean color or light blue. Avoid neons, vibrant colors, and distracting patterns. I love simple creams, neutrals, pale yellows, soft blues, sage greens, and pastels. Styling can be relaxed with simple jeans and a basic t-shirt, or you can dress up in summer dresses and slacks.
-Malinda Sloan
Austin Family Photographer based in Belton, Texas
https://malindasloanphotography.pixieset.com/booking/bluebonnet-petite-sessions
