Sunflower fields combine vibrant greens and rich yellows. Mix in a blue sky and fluffy white clouds and you have a magnificent setting for family pix, baby photos, or senior pictures. And you can find sunflower fields lots of places. There are a few things to consider and be prepared for.
Sunflowers are at their peak in the hottest part of the summer. Very early mornings are best with late afternoons secondary. If you absolutely have to shoot in the middle of the day, take a umbrella (or parasol), towels to dry off, and plenty of water or sports drink. If your model is a young lady, she will need to bring extra makeup and hair brush to freshen up after every few minutes in the heat.
The size of the flowers themselves can present a challenge. Sunflowers can easily be 6 or 7 feet tall. So if your model is a child, they are going to stand amongst the stalks. Even a high school senior can be overshadowed by the large plants. So, thing about carrying a ladder or step stool so the camera can shoot down with subject in the foreground and the flowers flowing into the background. Another possibility for children is to bring a bucket, box, or even tractor so they can sit high up among the blooms.
My favorite sunflower field is Batey Farms in Murfreesboro. It is fabulous. They do not charge amateurs to take photos in the flowers but they do require a fee for professional photographer with paying clients. You can also pay to cut a few blooms to include in the photos. This is a large scale operation and they are super prepared to accommodate your needs.
Another possibility is a friend (or friendly) farmer. Farmers often plant sunflower fields to use when dove hunting season rolls around in fall. To be in compliance with game regulations they are required to plant at normal agricultural planting times. These plots are typically planted a little bit denser than a sunflower farm serving the public. The flowers will be smaller (less showy) too. But these areas can still be pretty and they may be located near you. Keep in mind these are private property and you need permission. And you sure don’t want to be there when hunting season arrives!