There’s something about cherry blossom season that feels like a deep exhale, especially after months of gray skies and record breaking snowfall. The snow will melt and one day the blossoms will appear, almost overnight.

Soft pink and white blossoms line the streets, catching your eye as you walk stroll through the neighborhood. They’re the kind of trees that make you slow down and take notice. The warmth of the sun filtered through their petals leave you imagining what it would feel like to be surrounded by a full field of them.

Every year when I see that first cherry blossom bloom, it’s a reminder of new beginnings. Of growth. Of change. Of the beauty in seasons that don’t last forever.

Photographing families this time of year is about more than pretty flowers. It’s about connection, movement and those quiet moments that tell the story of your family or maternity journey.

Because the bloom window is short, knowing the best time and location is important. If you’re thinking about booking a cherry blossom family or maternity session, here’s everything you need to know.

The Types of Cherry Blossoms that Bloom in NYC

The cherry blossoms you’ll see blooming in NYC, particularly Queens, are primarily Yoshino, Kwanzan, and Weeping Cherry trees. Kwanzan trees offer a vibrant pink in contrast to the soft white Yoshino blossoms. Weeping cherry trees are adorned with cascading branches of delicate pink flowers that frame families beautifully.

The Most Beautiful Cherry Blossom Locations in Queens

This year I am offering cherry blossom sessions at four different location. Each has a slightly different feel, and should be selected based on the kind of story you want your photos to tell. Keep reading to learn more about each of the three Queens locations (and a bonus Nassau one).

Flushing Meadows Corona Park (Flushing)

When you think of Queens cherry blossom photos, you think Flushing Meadows. It is the best for the classic cherry blossom experience with a fully encapsulated field of blossoms. This location delivers dramatic peak bloom photos, with soft pinks and whites layered throughout the park. The iconic Unisphere provides a unique, recognizable backdrop for your images, adding a touch of NYC character. Due to its popularity, weekdays are strongly recommended for these sessions to avoid very large crowds.

Fort Totten Little Bay Park (Whitestone/Bayside)

This location feels airy and peaceful, with soft white blossoms near an open field by the fort along one side and brighter pink blooms set against the bay, giving you the best of both worlds in a single session. Because the blossoms here are more spread out and the setting includes waterfront paths, this location is ideal for maternity sessions or families with older children (about ages 6+) who can follow gentle direction as we stroll along the path through the park. Crowd levels are moderate, quieter than Flushing Meadows, creating a more refined setting for connection centered photography.

Crocheron Park (Bayside)

This location is often the least crowded, allowing kids to run freely and explore naturally making it the perfect location for families, especially those with younger children. Little ones can run through the field of bright pink blossoms, twirl, explore and simply be themselves which naturally creates the kind of connection filled images I’m known for. The open fields and soft light make it easy to capture authentic connection and joyful movement.

Centennial Gardens (Floral Park, Nassau County)

A perfect Long Island location, the gardens are an absolutely beautiful both inside and out. Sessions take place on the exterior of the gardens, as golden hour is after operating hours, along walking paths among soft pink cherry blossoms, magnolia trees and spring flowers. It’s a beautiful, classic garden setting.

What’s Included in a Cherry Blossom Session?

This spring season, all family and maternity cherry blossom photo sessions include:

• Wardrobe styling guidance for all participants
• Access to my curated client closet of flowing dresses and thoughtfully selected children’s outfits
• A fully edited digital gallery of 50+ images
• High-resolution digital images delivered via private online gallery with print release
• Access to heirloom-quality print products available for purchase with full design support

Each cherry blossom session is thoughtfully planned and fully curated from start to finish. From styling to final image delivery, every detail is handled with care so your experience feels seamless. Learn a little more about the family and maternity session experience.

What day of the week is best for Cherry Blossom sessions?

Weekday cherry blossom sessions are typically the best option, as these parks are very popular during peak bloom throughout NYC, particularly Flushing Meadows Corona Park. All sessions take place at golden hour, about 60-75 minutes before sunset. Choosing a weekday evening for your family or maternity session usually means fewer visitors and a more relaxed experience. Limited Saturday availability is offered, though as these are public parks, they do tend to be more crowded during peak bloom. Crocheron Park tends to be the least crowded option on the weekends therefore the best option for a Saturday session. View current cherry blossom photo session availability.

What to Wear for Your Session

Cherry blossoms are delicate, and your family’s wardrobe should complement that with soft colors, textures and patterns. Think creams, soft whites, blush tones, muted florals and flowing fabrics. As with any styling, its best to mix patterns and colors as well as avoid matching outfits.

Every session includes personalized styling guidance, and you’ll have access to my client closet filled with gorgeous, flowing dresses, skirt sets and carefully selected children’s pieces. These pieces are designed to move beautifully in golden hour light, making every moment feel effortless.

Why These Sessions Matter

Cherry blossom season isn’t just about flowers. It’s about honoring the season you’re in. Whether you’re expecting a new baby, have a toddler discovering the world, watching your children grow too quickly or simply pausing to capture your family as it is right now, these blooms are a gentle reminder to celebrate and preserve the beginning of your next chapter.

The blossoms bloom for just a few weeks in April. If you’re ready to capture this season of new beginnings, you can view my availability and book your session here.

If you’re hoping for a different location, style of scenery or have questions about what will work best for your family, feel free to get in touch with me here. I’m happy to help guide you in selected the perfect spot for your ideal session.

Erica Ruvio Photography LLC is a Bayside Queens based lifestyle family, maternity and newborn photographer. She offers sessions throughout New York City, Long Island and Westchester county. Learn more about the photographer here.