Why I Always Say Yes to Seven Oaks Lavender Farm
You walk in and everything slows down. Bees hum. Lavender sways in waves. The scent wraps around you. And just like that—you’re smiling without even trying.
This is Seven Oaks Lavender Farm in Catlett, Virginia. It’s one of my favorite places to photograph families, maternity sessions, and love that blooms in summer. And here’s why I keep coming back.
Let Lavender Set the Mood
There’s something powerful about this place. It isn’t just rows of pretty purple blooms. It’s the way the light lands on your cheeks as you laugh. It’s how kids run barefoot through the fields without a care. It’s how couples hold hands a little tighter when the sun dips low.
That’s the magic of Seven Oaks. Every photo feels alive.
From the first step onto that gravel path, something shifts. The busy fades. The heart opens. You breathe deeper. You feel more present. And that, my friend, is where the good stuff happens on camera.
Sessions Here Feel Like Stories
You’re not stepping into a studio with forced lights and sharp corners. You’re stepping into a living story. One where you walk side-by-side, share soft whispers, and cradle your bump while the lavender hugs your knees.
Family sessions feel like playdates. Maternity shoots feel like quiet celebrations. Couple sessions feel like first dates all over again.
We move through the space like it’s part of you. Every location—from the hillside to the flower beds—helps the story unfold. It’s natural. It’s easy. It’s filled with heart.
Pack Light and Wear What Feels Good
Flowy dresses work wonders here. Soft whites. Gentle blues. Anything that moves with the wind and catches the light. You don’t need to dress like you’re heading to a gala. You need to feel like yourself.
This farm was made for movement. For twirls and cuddles. For tiny feet and growing bumps. You don’t need much. Just clothes that let you move. Let you play. Let you be exactly who you are.
Barefoot? Yes. Hat that flops a little? Sure. Lavender cuddling your bump? Now we’re talking.
Chase the Glow of Golden Hour
I aim to plan my summer sessions here around one thing: light.
Golden hour at Seven Oaks feels like the whole world is giving you a warm hug. That soft orange glow turns everything dreamy. Skin glows. Flowers sparkle. Eyes catch light like they were made for it.
About an hour before sunset is the perfect golden hour hue. That’s when magic shows up.
We walk. We laugh. We pause when the wind hits just right. Every shot looks warm, loving, and light-soaked in the best way.
Kids Love This Place (And So Will You)
Seven Oaks isn’t a busy park or a loud downtown scene. It’s chill. It’s playful. It’s full of things little ones actually want to touch and explore.
They pick lavender. They chase butterflies. They sit in your lap and squish their cheeks into yours.
You’ll be surprised how relaxed everyone feels. Even toddlers who usually wiggle too much stay calm here. They get to play. You get real smiles. And we get the kind of photos you’ll want to hang in your home forever.
Preparing for Your Photo Day
We’ll chat before your shoot. I’ll send you outfit ideas. I’ll help you map out all the details and prep for the weather.
We’ll plan details without stress. Because when you show up, I want you to drop your shoulders. To hold hands. To smile without being told to.
The best prep is when it doesn’t feel like prep at all. Just gentle steps toward something beautiful.
You show up ready to relax. To breathe. To move with the moment. We’ll walk together. I’ll prompt gentle movements—nothing stiff. Just things that feel right.
You’ll forget there’s a camera in your face. And you’ll leave with something timeless.
Where to Park, Play, and Pause
Parking here is easy. You’ll pull up close to the entrance and walk right into lavender bliss. There’s space to wander. Benches to sit. Even areas where your toddler can chase bees (from a respectful distance) and feel like the world’s best explorer.
Restrooms are available. There’s a cute little shop for gifts. And if you’re lucky, you’ll catch a lemonade stand or sweet treats nearby. Come a little early and soak it all in.
I always recommend bringing water, a small snack for little ones, and anything that keeps you comfy while we shoot. Bug spray? Yes. Sunscreen? Even better. Let’s plan like pros so you can relax like a dream.
The Best Time of Year for Lavender Photos
Late spring into summer is prime time for Seven Oaks Lavender Farm photography. Usually mid-June through July is peak bloom. That’s when the fields turn thick with color and the air hums with freshness.
I watch bloom reports closely and time shoots for peak petals. If the lavender season shifts, I shift too. That way, you get lush fields and light that makes everything pop.
The Power of Lavender for Maternity Photos
There’s something about a mama-to-be standing in purple waves. The softness. The movement. The symbolism of bloom meeting bloom.
I love shooting maternity here because the whole scene wraps around your story. You’re growing life. Lavender is growing too. It’s a quiet mirror—a perfect match for this season.
Every belly rub. Every quiet breath. Every moment you connect to the life inside—captured in light and color.
It’s emotional. It’s radiant. And you’ll treasure it long after your baby’s first steps.
It’s a Farm, Yes—But It’s Also a Feeling
When you look at your gallery weeks after the shoot, you won’t just see lavender. You’ll see connection. You’ll see your kid clinging to your shirt and giggling. You’ll see belly kisses and soft whispers.
You’ll remember the breeze. The quiet. The freedom. And the joy tucked into every little moment.
That’s why Seven Oaks Lavender Farm is more than a backdrop. It’s part of the memory.
Booking Your Session at Seven Oaks Lavender Farm
Summer books quickly, especially during peak bloom. If this location speaks to you, reach out early. I’ll help find the perfect date, walk you through details, and get you on the calendar.
Together, we’ll make it easy. We’ll prep smart and shoot slow. You’ll leave with muddy feet, a few lavender stems, and a heart full of love.
That’s what these sessions are about.
Want to book a shoot at Seven Oaks Lavender Farm? Let’s do it. Reach out today and let’s start dreaming up something beautiful.
