Seattle Ferry Boat Family Photos

A Farewell Session on the Water

When this sweet family of four reached out to me for one last photo session before their big move out of state, we knew we had to make it memorable. Seattle Ferry Boat Family Photos seemed to be the perfect idea. After capturing many of their milestones over the years — from newborn sessions to family portraits — this final shoot felt both joyful and bittersweet. What better way to say goodbye to Seattle than aboard one of its most iconic symbols: the Seattle Ferry Boat. Not to mention the dad of the family is the creator of a Seattle group called Ferries on Film where they meetup and capture stunning film photos on ferries.

A Breezy but Beautiful Day on the Ferry

As we boarded the ferry, the late afternoon sun lit up the Puget Sound, casting beautiful reflections on the water. The skyline of downtown Seattle provided a stunning backdrop, with its familiar outline creating the perfect setting for these Seattle Ferry Boat Family Photos. While the weather gifted us with clear skies and vibrant light, the wind definitely made its presence known — as it often does out on the open water.

That’s one thing to keep in mind when planning Seattle Ferry Boat Family Photos: expect wind! Hair may fly and jackets may flutter, but with a bit of flexibility and the right attitude, these conditions can add movement and energy to your images that truly capture the spirit of Seattle.

Capturing Color and Emotion on Film

For this special session, I carefully selected my film stocks to make the most of the natural light and the vibrant surroundings. I used Portra 160 to beautifully highlight the rich blues of the water and sky, allowing Seattle’s signature scenery to shine. Then, for the more intimate portraits of the family — especially focusing on the girls’ joyful smiles and the parents’ tender glances — I switched to Portra 400. This film handled the skin tones perfectly, offering warmth and softness even in the bright, dynamic light of the ferry deck.

A Meaningful Goodbye to Seattle

Throughout the session, there was an undeniable mix of excitement and nostalgia. As the ferry gently cut across the waves, we paused to soak in the sweeping views of their beloved city — a place that has held so many memories for their growing family. These Seattle Ferry Boat Family Photos served not only as portraits but as a tangible way to carry a piece of Seattle with them to their new home.

In many ways, a Seattle ferry is more than just transportation — it’s a floating stage with ever-changing scenery, perfect for creating timeless family images. And while the wind may challenge us, it also brings a natural, candid energy that can’t be replicated in a studio.

Planning Your Own Seattle Ferry Boat Family Photos

If you’re considering your own Seattle Ferry Boat Family Photos, be ready for a little adventure. Embrace the wind, dress comfortably, and let the city’s breathtaking views do the rest. With the right planning and a bit of spontaneity, your ferry session can be both a fun experience and a lasting memory.

You might recognize this family as I have captured two newborn sessions, a maternity session and some mini sessions for them. Check Baby Margo’s Newborn Photos to see when their littlest first arrived.