Bellingham is full of character, and your headshots should be too. From sun-dappled parks to cozy coffee shops, the right location can turn a great photo into one that feels alive, approachable, and unmistakably you. Lifestyle headshots aren’t just about capturing a face, they’re about showcasing your personality, your vibe, and even a little bit of your story.
When the backdrop resonates, your photos instantly feel familiar, inviting, and memorable. Luckily, Bellingham is full of spots that do just that. Here are my favorite Bellingham locations to bring lifestyle headshots to life, as your go-to headshot photographer in the area.
The Bellingham Studio
The Bellingham Studio is the perfect studio location for business owners looking to blend controlled lighting with outdoor charm. This modern, aesthetically pleasing space ensures that business owners can get polished indoor headshots. The studio offers a comfortable, home-like atmosphere with stunning views of the city.
- Best For: Approachable, lifestyle-forward branding photos that still need a touch of polish.
- Tips: Book in advance, as this spot tends to get busy.
- Style Inspiration: Casual yet refined outfits.
Vine Creative Spaces NW
Vine Creative Spaces feels more like a Boho loft than an indoor studio, making it a versatile indoor space. The textured walls, big windows, and natural light make Vine Creative Spaces feel more like a loft in the trees; a chic yet homey space and one of my favorite locations in Bellingham for headshots.
- Best For: Modern brands seeking out personality in their backdrops without taking it too far.
- Tips: Morning sessions here make the most of the beautiful and soft window light.
- Style Inspiration: Dress stylish yet professional. Small props will make all the difference here, whether that’s a laptop or a coffee cup.
Peerspace Studios
Sometimes, it’s tough to find the right fit for your business. Peerspace Studios, which is like Airbnb for booking unique activity spaces, can be a great way to access a new background for your headshots. One of my favorites is this modern studio in Mount Vernon, which comes with plenty of natural light and simple yet effective props, like a variety of chairs.
- Best For: Looking for a blank slate, or something packed with personality? Peerspace Studios offer such a great variety of spaces.
- Tips: Bringing extra items and props will help you feel “in your element”.
- Style Inspiration: Styling the space – and your look – to your desired vibe will help create the perfect final look. And don’t worry, I can help!
Your Office Space
Sometimes, the best location for your Bellingham headshots is the one you already work in! Have you considered shooting your new headshots in your existing office space? Whether you rent an office space downtown or have a little nook in your home, headshots taken in your own space can tell your brand’s story in a special way.
- Best For: This option is perfect for lawyers, consultants, authors, or anyone who works in an environment where their space plays a big role in their lives.
- Tips: We’ll style your space for your session. During our strategy session, we will go over which spaces to de-clutter and prep. When onsite, I will make any lighting adjustments needed and help pull in personal touches like books or plants.
- Style Inspiration: When shooting in your own space, sometimes, what works best is wearing clothes you’d typically wear when working or meeting clients to give that real, authentic feel.
Hovander Park
Do you want to snap your headshots outdoors in Bellingham? Hovander Park remains one of my favorite places in Bellingham, and for good reason. The wide-open fields, tree-lined paths, and rustic backdrops can add more diversity to your headshots. Plus, there are plenty of different lighting options, too.
- Best For: Outdoor headshots in Hovander Park would work great for wellness brands, outdoor enthusiasts, or professionals who want to come off as grounded and approachable.
- Tips: Mid-morning or later afternoon sessions work best here to avoid harsh, unflattering lighting.
- Style Inspiration: When shooting outdoors, I always recommend lighter layers, earth tones, and simple textures (like linen or denim) to complement the setting.
Squalicum Beach Park
Rugged shorelines, tall trees and sweeping views of Bellingham Bay make Squalicum Park a special place to shoot your outdoor headshots in Bellingham. For those seeking out that seaside magic, Squalicum Beach remains one of my best headshot locations in Bellingham. The light reflections off the water add a serene, natural glow to your skin – and there’s plenty of variety in the backdrop, too.
- Best For: Those seeking out a calming, nature-inspired backdrop with plenty of ocean views and a mix of tall trees.
- Tips: Mid-morning and mid-afternoon are the perfect time to shoot outdoor headshots at Squalicum for softer light and fewer pedestrians.
- Style Inspiration: Think coastal neutrals, knits, and most importantly, walkable shoes.
Elizabeth Park
The local favorite, Elizabeth Park, remains one of the most beautiful headshot photography locations in Bellingham. Manicured gardens, old trees, and a charming gazebo… What’s not to love? The lush greenery turns beautiful in the fall, offering a variety of seasonal options.
- Best For: Business owners looking for approachable, friendly photography in a recognizable spot. It’s also a great place for groups, too.
- Tips: This spot is great all seasons to capture those beautiful colors! We’ll shoot here during the morning to avoid people and harsh sunlight.
- Style Inspiration: Solid colors work best with the green backdrop – and during the shoulder seasons, a light jacket might be necessary.
Urban Landscapes and Backdrops
Looking for a little something different? Why not try an urban landscape as your backdrop? Waypoint Park, downtown Bellingham, and the historic streets of Fairhaven all offer unique murals, urban energy, and different textures for your next headshot.
- Best For: Real estate agents, architects, or creatives might like this option better than the others to showcase their connection to the Bellingham community.
- Tips: Mid-morning sessions here ensure the best light without those deep shadows.
- Style Inspiration: For urban landscapes, dress smart; bold colors and monochrome outfits will pop better against murals and bricks.
Practical Tips for Headshot Sessions
When it comes to outdoor or indoor headshots, a little prep goes a long way toward making your session smooth and fun.
For outfits, think simple, solid colors and layers; avoid busy prints or patterns that can steal the spotlight. Neutral tones tend to play well in almost any setting, giving you more flexibility and less stress.
Weather in Bellingham? Let’s just call it unpredictable with occasional dramatic flair. That’s why I recommend bringing a jacket, a small brush, and your sense of humor. And if Mother Nature has other plans, no problem — we’ll reschedule and make sure you still get your best shots.
The golden rule: stay relaxed! The best brand headshots happen when your environment works with you, not against you. Your personality should shine through, not your stress about a gust of wind or a wrinkled shirt.
I’m here to make sure you feel confident and comfortable every step of the way. We’ll chat about outfits, props, and how to bring your energy to the camera before we even snap the first photo—so you can focus on looking like the amazing, approachable professional you already are.
Want Help Picking the Perfect Spot for Your Brand?
Whether you’re after bold, eye-catching headshots or something more relaxed and approachable, there’s a corner of Bellingham that’s just waiting to match your vibe. I’ve photographed hundreds of headshots and branding sessions around town, and I know how to find the spots that perfectly reflect your personality, your brand’s energy, and your goals.
Together, let’s create images that feel authentically like you and help your clients feel that instant connection, too. Book your lifestyle headshots in Bellingham today and let’s revamp your brand!
