I’ve just wrapped up this year's lavender field sessions, and let me tell you, I’m in love. The rows of lavender, the dreamy light, the pastel tones…this is the stuff dreams are made of! While there won't be more lavender field this year, you can bet we will be returning to be with our friends in Russellville, KY again next year when the lavender blooms again. It's worth the drive from the Middle Tennessee area and this photographer loves the scenery on the way to the field -- wheat fields, green pastures, silos, red barns and blue skies!
Here are some tips for those you wanting photo sessions in a lavender field with us next year. Be watching in mid to late May for the announcement.
Preparing for a Lavender Field Photoshoot
WHAT TO WEAR FOR A LAVENDER FIELD PHOTOSHOOT
For light and airy photos in a lavender field, (and let’s be real, any sessions at all) I really adore pastel colors! Light pinks and baby blues especially photograph so well next to the lavender. With the type of lavender I photograph at Sweet Honey Lavender Farm, any soft and cool colors will look really nice! Whites and creams will also look so pretty and timeless. We always bring some props to extend the look of your session but the beautiful lavender is enough of a prop itself honestly.
BE READY TO SEE BUMBLEBEES
Bumblebees are almost always found buzzing around the lavender, and as long as we leave them alone they are generally harmless. If your child is anxious around insects, assure them beforehand that these are not the same types of bees that sting. They’re just helping the lavender! A visit to a lavender farm before your session might be a great way to introduce this idea, so that they aren’t upset or anxious around bumblebees during the session. If all else fails, the kids can always go up in your arms, away from the lavender. My favorite thing to tell little kids is that the lavender is like chicken nuggets from Chick Fila and they are like broccoli and who would rather eat broccoli than nuggets? It's always a fun ice breaker. Then I also remind them that I've been in the field with the bees for years and they are only interested in eating the sweet stuff called pollen in the lavender. It's a fun, educational moment and helps them not be so afraid.
WHEN IS THE BEST TIME FOR FAMILY PHOTOS AT THE LAVENDER FIELD?
Lavender season varies some with the weather that year, but generally family photos at the lavender field will take place during the middle to end of June and often into the early portion of the month of July. Lavender field photoshoots take place in the evening only, around 7 pm. This can be challenging for small children, so consider a later bedtime the night before to prepare for staying up later.
ABOUT THE LAVENDER FIELD OWNERS
The field is family-owned by the most wonderful people. Our friends at Sweet Honey Lavender Field make all kinds of wonderful products including oils, soaps and sleep masks. A wonderful way to support them is purchasing their products if you are interested in taking home the sweet smell of lavender. We love all their products. You can also take home the bouquet we cut especially for your session. Hanging it upside down to dry out when you get home is a great way to preserve it so you can either hang or put them in a vase to keep. You will leave the farm not only with armloads of fragrant lavender and memories to match, but the warmth of knowing that you supported two local, family-owned businesses in one day.
