Hey milspouse photographer! If you’re getting ready for a move to JBLM, then I’m excited to connect you with Casey Baker Toth of Captured by Casey Photography! She’s a very talented photographer and is sharing some local knowledge in this Tacoma, WA Photography Spotlight. Let’s jump in!

What are your top three favorite locations for sessions? Briefly share about each.

Tanwax Chapel Scenic Outlook

This is a very popular and well-known spot in the area. I have photographed there all year round, but it gets very busy in the summer. It’s a gorgeous location, the only downside is that you have to have a clear sky to be able to see the mountain in the background.

Ideal time would be sunset, I always started 40-60 min before sunset and it was perfect lighting. I have gone out there at sunrise before and it was wonderful as well. Best part, you just park in the parking lot and walk a few feet into the field!

Olympia Capitol Building

There are beautiful cherry blossoms blooming here in April for 1-2 weeks. Even outside that window though, the building itself is beautiful for any occasion, especially branding photos or graduation/cap and gown! It is very, very crowded on the weekends when the cherry blossoms are in bloom, but on a normal day it is not too busy! I always went in the mornings to avoid most crowds.

Paradise at Mt. Rainier

The most iconic location near JBLM is Mt. Rainier. I always went to Paradise at the south end of the park.

There are two options I suggest. First, you can walk up Skyline Trail straight from the parking lot for about 20 minutes on a steep (paved) incline. You will find the iconic views of Rainier and the mountain ranges on the other side. However, if your clients prefer a less strenuous path, you can take Skyline Trail to the right from the parking lot which leads to a waterfall and mountain view as well.

Mt. Rainier is covered in snow until June. I always went up with clients mid-July until early October about 90 minutes before sunset. It’s a beautiful spot for lush green summer colors or colorful fall scenery!

Please be aware that in 2024 they started doing timed entry during the summer, so lookup their website for more up to date information. And a great tip to see if the mountain is out from behind the clouds – check the Mt. Rainier webcam!

Are there any particularly busy seasons for photographers in this area? Any events an incoming photographer should know about?

I’d say it is busy all year round because of the amount of people there. There is always someone looking to hire a photographer! However, holiday season gets very, very busy, as well as summer time as everyone wants their photo with Mt. Rainier.

What should an incoming photographer know about permits in this area?

America the Beautiful pass is required to enter Mt. Rainier National Park, though it’s free for military when you drive into the entrance. During winter, some mountain locations will require a SnoPark pass which is not free for military.

What is the biggest piece of advice you’d give to an incoming photographer?

It’s a very saturated area with a ton of photographers, but don’t be afraid. There are enough clients for everyone. We all have a different style and offer a different experience!

Where can other milspouse photographers connect with you?

Website: www.capturedbycaseyphotography.com
Instagram: www.instagram.com/captured_by_casey_photography

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Are you a milspouse photographer interested in contributing? I’d love to have your insight! Please send me an email at erin@erinthompsonphoto.com and I’ll be in touch with the details!

If you enjoyed this Tacoma, WA photography spotlight, be sure to check out other featured location guides and tips for moving your business!