Flowers are perfect for spring family photos.

When blooms really start to open after the last frost, I start to get excited about spring photography sessions. The colors and textures of flowers speak of new life and growth.

Huntsville has several talented florists, but you don't have to buy flowers to find them. The parks and fields throughout North Alabama are awash with wildflowers and even flowering "weeds" this time of year. Violets, morning glory, queen Anne's lace, dandelions, wild trillium, woodland phlox, lesser celandine, calico aster, and more grow locally and can be found in just about anywhere they can grow roots.

For cultivated flowers, I love the Huntsville Botanical Garden.

For free and whimsical wildflowers, check out your backyard.