Filoli Christmas Photos: The Ultimate Bay Area Holiday Spot

Planning your holiday family photos?

Looking for a location that’s both stunning and actually enjoyable for kids? Filoli Christmas Photos might just be your new go-to. In this post, I’m sharing why families love this peaceful, iconic estate and how to make your Filoli session feel easy and magical.

---

TL;DR: Why Filoli Christmas Photos Work So Well for Families

• Seasonal lights and lush greenery create picture-perfect backdrops
• Peaceful garden paths, free parking, and space for kids to explore
• Perfect timing for golden hour photos during winter months
• Thoughtful holiday decor adds an extra layer of magic
• General admission for up to two adults and all children is included in your session
• Planning a session during Filoli’s Holiday Lights event? Those require separate ticket purchases for your party, and one for me as your photographer too

---

Filoli: A Peaceful Escape From the Holiday Hustle

Let’s be real. Holiday photos with kids can feel chaotic. But Filoli Christmas Photos are different. This Woodside gem offers:

• Twinkle lights and golden hour glow
• Wide paths perfect for strollers and tiny feet
• Holiday decor that changes every year for fresh backdrops
• A peaceful, elevated vibe without the stress of crowds

Even better, it’s just a quick drive from anywhere on the Peninsula.

---

When to Take Filoli Christmas Photos for Best Results

The Ideal Holiday Photo Window

• Late November through January
  Morning opening times and late afternoon sessions near closing are ideal for capturing that soft winter light
• Weekdays
  Less crowded and more peaceful, making it easier for families with little ones to relax and explore
• Holiday Lights Sessions
  Filoli’s Holiday Lights typically begin the weekend before Thanksgiving. These sessions require special event tickets. Your group will need to purchase tickets for each adult attending, and I’ll need a ticket as your photographer too

---

---

Filoli Christmas Photo Tips

• Dress in layers
  The gardens can feel cool, especially in the shade or late afternoon. Layers help keep everyone warm and comfortable throughout the session
• Stick to soft, neutral tones
  Creams, pastels, and light earth tones work beautifully with Filoli’s deep greens and vibrant holiday décor. These colors brighten your look and help you stand out naturally in photos
• Pack some treats and snacks for the kids
  A little bribery goes a long way. We’ll be walking through the gardens and on grassy paths, so bring shoes that are comfortable and easy to move in

---

Why Families Say Yes to Filoli Photos Year-Round

Here’s what real clients have said after their sessions:

“Wow, Filoli’s backdrops are so beautiful. Thank you for capturing such gorgeous photos. I’m definitely coming back for more.”
“I love the ones we took with the ivy wall, and you got Ethan smiling! He looks so handsome.”
“It felt so peaceful. I wasn’t stressed for once.”
“There were so many different areas to shoot in. We didn’t feel rushed at all.”
“My kids had fun exploring after photos, which made the whole evening feel like an outing.”

As a mom and a photographer, this is exactly what I want your Filoli Christmas Photos to feel like. Calm. Connected. Full of joy. No pressure. No rushing. Just real, beautiful moments.

---

Filoli Daytime Photo Session

• Complimentary daytime garden admission before 4 pm
• Admission for up to two adults and all children in your group
• Free onsite parking
• Access to restrooms and Filoli’s on site café
• Thoughtful guidance and gentle posing throughout your session
• 45 to 60 minutes of relaxed, joy filled time exploring the gardens

Holiday Lights Photo Session

Holiday Lights is a special ticketed event. Tickets are required for each adult attending, and one ticket is also needed for me as your photographer.

---

Real Session Spotlight: Filoli Christmas Photos at Golden Hour

One of my favorite sessions ever was a winter maternity shoot at Filoli.

We began about an hour before sunset. The light was golden. The holiday wreaths glowed in the background. Everything felt calm and effortless. No chaos. Just a peaceful walk through a beautiful space with cameras clicking.

That’s the magic of Filoli Christmas Photos. They don’t just look good. They feel good too.

After the session, I wandered the gardens with my client and her family. Darkness had settled in and the holiday lights had come to life. We lingered by the glowing tunnel. Her toddler lit up with joy, running through it again and again. We all did. It wasn’t just a session. It was a moment they’ll remember.

---

Book Your Filoli Christmas Photos Now

Want holiday photos that don’t feel forced or overly posed? Want a location that makes your family look amazing and feel relaxed? Let’s make it happen. Book your Filoli Christmas Photos session today.

If you love reading this blog, you will also love:

• Holiday Photo Sessions: Timeline for Bay Area Families
• Bay Area Photography Locations for Families
• Kohl Mansion Burlingame Family Photos You’ll Love