Whether you’re a photographer yourself, or simply are looking for information about photography opportunities, such as Bridal Portraits at Burnside Farm in Northern Virginia, you’ve come to the right place.
11008 Kettle Run Rd, Nokesville, VA 20181
Burnside Farms in Northern Virginia has a long history, originally established by the Burnside family in the 19th century. Over time, it transitioned into a popular agritourism destination, offering seasonal events like the famous tulip festival, sunflower festivals, pumpkin patches, and Christmas tree sales. Despite evolving into a tourist hotspot, Burnside Farms maintains its roots as a working farm, continuing to grow crops and raise livestock alongside its visitor attractions.
Photography Opportunities
There are two main seasons in which you may be interested in photography at Burnside Farms. The spring season brings tulips, and aptly named is the Festival of Spring. Late summer brings the Summer of Sunflowers. You can visit their website to check the daily field report. Good news, there is no photography permit required, but you are required to purchase an entry ticket for each person.
Securing entry for the big day was a breeze. Both the bride and I simply needed to purchase our tickets for the chosen timeslot, and that was all there was to it! The process was straightforward and hassle-free. We opted to buy our tickets online the night before, ensuring everything was sorted well in advance. With our tickets in hand, we were all set for the festivities without any last-minute stress.
Because of the ever-changing Spring and Summer weather, I would recommend not scheduling out too far in advance. When you do find a fair weather day to head out there, you’re sure to enjoy all 70 acres of farmland.
Learn more about their photography requirements here.
Tips for planning your visit
Spring Visits:
- Dress in layers to accommodate the fluctuating temperatures from chilly mornings to warm afternoons.
- Wear sturdy footwear suitable for the farm, especially as fields may still be damp from spring rain.
- Expect to do some walking as the fields span across numerous acres.
- Stay hydrated by bringing water along.
- Consider bringing a picnic for a delightful outdoor meal.
- Please note that dogs are not allowed during the spring season, but they are welcome during the summer months.
Summer Visits:
- Keep hydrated by bringing water.
- Opt for light-colored, loose clothing to stay cool.
- Consider wearing a hat or bringing an umbrella for shade, or borrow one of our “Sunbrellas”.
- Choose comfortable shoes suitable for the farm terrain.
- Be prepared for walking, as the fields are extensive.
- Remember sunscreen and insect repellent for added protection.
- Bring along a picnic for a relaxing outdoor meal.
- During summer, dogs on leashes are permitted to join you.
Tulip Picking Guide
Choose Your Basket: The farm offer picking baskets/buckets for your convenience (these are not available for purchase). Alternatively, feel free to bring your own basket.
Go Picking: Select your desired tulip or daffodil by grasping the stem as close to the soil as possible and pulling straight up. If you happen to retrieve a flower bulb, it will be removed at the wrapping station. Please only pick what you intend to purchase.
Head Back to Pack Your Harvest: After picking, make your way to the self-serve processing station located in the checkout building. If you require assistance, our staff members are nearby to help.
Packing and Processing: Bulbs are removed at the packing station. Kindly dispose of flower bulbs in the compost bins near the tables.
Wrap and Count Your Bunch: Utilize the provided kraft paper on the processing tables to wrap your flowers, ensuring to count your stems as you lay them out.
Take Your Beautiful Harvest to Checkout: Upon completing the process, proceed to checkout.
Trim 1/4 inch off the ends when you get home and place the flowers in cool water. Remember to store them away from direct sunlight and heat for prolonged freshness. Keeping your flowers cool will extend their lifespan. If your flowers wilt during transit, placing them in water upon arrival can help revive them quickly.
Prepare for your photography session
To maximize the potential of your photography session, consider the following tips:
- Plan Ahead: Outline your goals and vision for the photoshoot. Whether it’s capturing a special occasion or simply creating stunning portraits, having a clear plan will help guide the session.
- Communicate with Your Photographer: Share your ideas, preferences, and any specific shots you have in mind with your photographer. Collaboration ensures that everyone is on the same page and helps achieve the desired results.
- Dress Appropriately: Coordinate outfits and accessories that complement each other and the chosen location. Consider the overall aesthetic you want to achieve and dress accordingly.
- Be Prepared: Plan ahead and note of you need to bring a change of clothes, water, or other props in a single bag that is easy to carry.
- Relax and Have Fun: Enjoy the experience and let your personality shine through. Natural and candid moments often result in the best photos, so embrace the moment and have fun with it.
Film, Polaroids, and Digital Photography
Can you tell which of these photos were digital, and which were 35mm film? Analog photography, oh, it’s like stepping into a time capsule! You can be certain that I am bringing my film camera to every session. There’s this thrill, this anticipation as you wait to see the final prints, and when they’re finally in your hands, it’s like rediscovering the art of storytelling. On the flip side, digital photography is all about that instant gratification. You snap a pic, and bam, there it is on the screen for you to tweak and perfect. Both analog and digital photography have their perks, but what’s important is that they both offer endless avenues for creativity and expression. And hey, that’s what makes capturing moments so darn special, right? And how cute did these Polaroids turn out? I’m obsessed.
Stick around!
If you’re engaged (or about to be) – hello! I’m glad you’re here. Give me a follow on Instagram or say hello using the contact form on my website. I’d love to be the one to photograph your proposal, engagement photos, and wedding! And speaking of beautiful locations, you’re definitely going to want to see this stunning engagement session at the Washington National Cathedral.
