I’m Jess, a family photographer and momma of 4.
I love exploring our local parks and capturing sweet moments for your family to cherish.
Follow along to learn more about my favorite photography locations in and around Tacoma Washington
JESS DAGATI CREATIVE
Family and Lifestyle Photography
EDITORIAL & FINE ART PHOTOGRAPHY
Open Fields & Green Space
The main lawn at Wapato Park is wide open — just the kind of place where kids can run, families can lay out a blanket, or couples can stretch out and watch the clouds roll by. The grass is short and even, perfect for a barefoot moment or tossing a frisbee. Surrounding the lawn are tall trees that catch the light just right in the late afternoon, making this an ideal golden hour spot.
It’s also a solid location for photos with plenty of clean, open light and simple backgrounds.
The Pergola & Waterfall
At the edge of the park sits one of Wapato’s most iconic features: a long white pergola with tall, column-style posts and a curved layout that frames the park beautifully. It feels timeless — almost Roman-inspired — and it makes an incredible backdrop for portraits or just a moment of stillness.
Just behind it, a small waterfall flows through a rock-lined garden, tucked into the landscape in a way that feels hidden until you're right there. This whole area is perfect for formal photos, proposals, or just a quiet break from the main path.
Lake Views & Lily Pads
Wapato Lake stretches through the center of the park and adds a calm, reflective feel to the space. One end of the lake is filled with lily pads — wide, round leaves that float near the shore and create a textured, layered look that changes with the seasons.
Other parts of the shoreline offer open views and small sandy areas to explore. The lake is perfect for kiddos pretending to fish, watching the wildlife, or just having a seat along the shore to take in the beauty.
This lakeview park is beautiful no matter the season, or time of day.
The Loop Trail & Trees
The paved loop around the lake is just under a mile long and is full of amazing photographic places. The main path is flat and paved, with trail off-shoots flat, lined with a mix of evergreen trees and deciduous trees that make it beautiful year-round — especially in fall when the leaves start to change.
There are benches, pergolas, little beaches to pause and look out at the water, and the scenery here is beautiful year-round.
JESS DAGATI CREATIVE
Family and Lifestyle Photography
Let's Plan Your Photography Session
You can book directly on my website, or send me a message—I’d love to hear your ideas, chat about your inspiration, and learn more about your family.
