Hallelujah! Spring has sprung. Finally.

That cold, wet winter was good for something, though. Experts have predicted this year’s wildflower bloom to be the best in more than a decade.

Texas parks and roadsides are sure to be alive with color in the coming weeks. Some already are! And bluebonnet photos are a family tradition for many.

But there are a few things to keep in mind as you snap those photos. Like…

In Texas, private property means private. Don’t cross the fence. Don’t park in someone’s driveway. Put simply, don’t trespass. That’s not the Texan way.

Be safe! Wildflower season means plenty of traffic on the roads, so always pay attention to your surroundings. Stopping on the side of the road can impede traffic, and there’s always a risk of someone losing control of their vehicle and running off the road. Be smart and avoid this danger. No photo is worth risking your life or your loved ones’ lives!

Check the area before setting up for photos. Wildflowers are perfect ground cover for animals of all kinds, including snakes, insects and the occasional small vermin. Just because you don’t see them at first glance doesn’t mean they’re not around.

You don’t have to be a professional photographer to get the shot! Remember to pay attention to lighting and composition. Check for fence posts, power lines and other objects in the background of the photo. The harsh Texas sunlight can be a challenge with photographs. Sometimes you’ll need to adjust your subject and angles to get the best shot with the right lighting and composition.

Whether you’re using your phone or camera, anyone can take good photos. It just takes a little bit of thought and some practice.

Wondering where to look for bluebonnets this year?

Texas Parks and Wildlife Department has up-to-date information on their website about where to find wildflowers in state parks.

Texas Highways, published by the Texas Department of Transportation, also has some good resources. This article from March 2018 highlights some scenic drives and other useful tips.

Or you can check out our Facebook page.

Texas is blooming right now. From wildflowers to crops emerging from the ground, the Lone Star State is coming alive again this spring. Take a road trip and enjoy all that our beautiful state has to offer.