What It’s Like to Have a Greenhouse Session at Culver’s Lawn & Garden
If you’re looking for a session location that feels bright, warm, and a little magical—no matter the season—a greenhouse session might be the perfect fit. One of my favorite places to photograph families, couples, maternity sessions, and more is Culver’s Lawn & Garden greenhouse in Marion, Iowa. It offers the best of both worlds: the comfort of an indoor space with the natural beauty and light of the outdoors.
Why Choose a Greenhouse Session?
Greenhouse sessions are ideal if you love an organic, nature-inspired look but want to avoid unpredictable Iowa weather. The light inside Culver’s greenhouse is soft and glowing, filtering beautifully through the glass and greenery. Even on cooler or overcast days, the space feels warm, inviting, and full of life.
Because it’s an indoor location, greenhouse sessions are especially popular in early spring, late fall, and winter—but they’re stunning year-round. You’ll get that fresh, airy look without worrying about wind, cold temps, or muddy shoes.
A Space That Changes With the Seasons
One of the things I love most about photographing at Culver’s is that no two sessions ever look the same. The greenhouse inventory changes with the seasons, which means your images will feel unique and thoughtfully styled by nature itself.
- Spring & Fall: You’ll often see smaller blooms paired with lush ferns, grasses, and textured greenery. These seasons feel soft, romantic, and timeless.
- Summer: The greenhouse can take on a more tropical feel, with bolder leaves, fuller plants, and vibrant textures that bring a relaxed, summery energy to your photos.
I love incorporating the plants into your session—using them as natural frames, layered backgrounds, or subtle foreground elements. The greenery adds depth and interest while still keeping you as the focus.
What to Wear for a Greenhouse Session
Wardrobe plays a huge role in how greenhouse photos feel, and a few thoughtful choices can really elevate your images.
I recommend steering away from green tones, since the plants already bring plenty of green into the space. Wearing green can sometimes blend into the background rather than stand out.
Instead, opt for light, warm, and soft hues, such as:
- Creams and ivories
- Soft pinks and blush tones
- Lilacs and muted purples
- Soft blues
- Tans, beiges, or gentle yellows
These colors photograph beautifully in natural light and complement the greenery without competing with it.
When it comes to patterns, less is more. Bold or busy patterns can distract from the overall look, while solids or very subtle textures allow the focus to stay on your connection and the organic setting. Think cozy knits, flowy fabrics, linen, soft cottons, or layered neutrals.
For families or couples, coordinating (not matching) your outfits works best—choosing colors that live in the same soft, neutral palette helps everything feel cohesive and timeless. Think linen and flowy fabrics, light jeans or dresses. Overalls add a fun perspective that ties in with the 'garden feel', go on the dressier side or stay within the casual options, either way, you can't go wrong here!
The Overall Feel
Greenhouse sessions at Culver’s are relaxed, natural, and full of warmth. Whether you’re snuggling your growing belly, chasing little ones between plants, or sharing quiet moments as a couple, the space encourages movement, connection, and authenticity.
If you’re drawn to an outdoor feel but want a reliable, comfortable option with gorgeous light, a greenhouse session might be exactly what you’re looking for.
(Scroll through the gallery below to see examples from past greenhouse sessions and how beautifully this space photographs in every season.)
