Family Photos in the Sunflower Fields at Partyka Farms | Western NY Family Photographer
- Jessi Partridge
- 2 days ago
- 3 min read
There are few backdrops that say late summer quite like a field full of sunflowers, and getting to photograph this family at Partyka Farms made this session even more special. Scott along with his father and brother own the farm so we got to spend the evening wandering through the sunflower fields and capturing his family in a place that's part of their everyday life.
This was also my third year photographing this family, which is one of my favorite parts of being a family photographer. I get to see kids grow, personalities change, and families settle a little more comfortably in front of my camera each year.
A Family Photo Location That's Actually Meaningful
Beautiful scenery is always a bonus, but I love when the location of a session means something to the people I'm photographing.
For this family, Partyka Farms isn't simply a pretty sunflower field, it's their farm. That made it the perfect setting for this year's family photos.
And the sunflowers definitely didn't disappoint. Between the rows of flowers, the warm evening light and two little boys who weren't afraid to explore, there was plenty to work with.
Family Photos Don't Have to Mean Standing Still
With young kids, I never expect an entire session to consist of everyone standing perfectly still and smiling at the camera - and I don't want that.
We got those classic family portraits, but we also let the boys explore the sunflowers, play together, climb onto Dad's shoulders, cuddle with Mom and be themselves.
Those in-between moments are always my favorites because they capture a little more of what life actually looks like.
And, of course, Gus got to join in too :)
Three Years of Watching This Family Grow
Photographing the same family year after year gives family photos an entirely different meaning.
A single session captures what your family looks like right now. Put those sessions together over several years, though, and they start telling a much bigger story.
I've now had the chance to photograph this family for three years, and looking back at how much the boys have changed already is such a good reminder of how quickly these stages pass.
A few weeks before this session, I also photographed a mother-and-sons session with Kathleen and the boys at another spot on the farm.
→ See their mother-and-sons photo session at Partyka Farms
Thinking About Your Own Family Photos in Western NY?
You don't need perfectly behaved kids, elaborate outfits or a family that's naturally comfortable in front of a camera to have family photos you love.
My family sessions include a mix of the classic posed family photos plus the candid, playful moments that show a little more of your family's personality.
I'll help with location, timing and what to wear, and during the session I'll guide you when you need it without making everything feel overly posed.
If you've been putting off updated family photos, I'd love to photograph this season of your family.
Can you take family photos at a sunflower field?
Sunflower fields can make a beautiful backdrop for late-summer family photos, but availability and photography policies vary by farm. I always recommend checking with the property before planning a professional session. And I am more than happy to reach out myself!
When is sunflower season in Western New York?
Sunflower timing can vary depending on the weather and when a field was planted, but they're generally a late-summer option in Western New York. Because the peak bloom can be relatively short, it's best to plan ahead if you have your heart set on sunflower photos.
What if my kids won't sit still for family photos?
They don't need to! My favorite family photographs happen while kids are walking, playing, exploring or interacting with their parents or each other naturally. We'll still aim for a few traditional portraits, but I don't expect young children to stand and smile at the camera for an entire session.