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Mustard Field Photoshoot in Half Moon Bay

Post Summary

Planning a mustard field photoshoot that feels easy and joyful? This guide covers bloom timing, what to wear, where to park, and why Half Moon Bay is one of the Bay Area’s most stunning and family-friendly locations. If you’ve been itching to get outside after a rainy winter, this is your moment.


Looking for the Perfect Spot for a Mustard Field Photoshoot?

You’re probably searching for a scenic, kid-friendly place to take photos-and sneak in a little spring magic. Half Moon Bay’s mustard field bloom is that place.

This post includes everything you need to know to plan your mustard field photoshoot:

  • When the yellow mustard flowers bloom
  • What to bring and wear
  • Where to go and how to park
  • Why kids (and moms) love it

Why Families Love a Mustard Field Photoshoot

Families say things like:

  • “I couldn’t believe how fast and easy it was.”
  • “My toddler didn’t want to leave!”
  • “It felt like playtime with photos sprinkled in.”

That’s the beauty of a mustard field photoshoot. The fields themselves invite joy, curiosity, and play-especially for toddlers.

You’ll get:

  • A vibrant, sun-drenched setting that feels like spring
  • A calm, kid-savvy photographer (that’s me!)
  • Gentle direction without stiff or awkward posing
  • Beautiful, heartfelt images, all in under 15-20 minutes during my mini sessions

Why Half Moon Bay Is Ideal for a Mustard Field Photoshoot

By mid-February, Half Moon Bay transforms. The coast lights up with mustard and oxalis flowers-fields of yellow stretching along Highway One. It’s:

  • A quick drive from San Francisco or the Peninsula
  • Open and spacious for kids to roam
  • Breathtaking with its coastal light
  • A natural, seasonal backdrop you won’t find year-round

It’s one of my favorite locations for mustard field photoshoots because it delivers beautiful results with minimal stress.


When to Book Your Mustard Field Photoshoot

Timing matters! Here’s the scoop:

  • Bloom season: mid-February to mid-March
  • Best booking window: right before blooms go viral on social media
  • Mini session dates: usually released at the end of January once I get confirmation from the farm on their opening dates
  • Hot tip: Join my email list to get early access to mini session dates

Once the field is cut, it’s gone. If you want the thick, golden fields, book your mustard field photoshoot early.



What to Wear for a Mustard Field Photoshoot

Choose outfits that complement the yellow background:

  • White, yellow, cream, soft rust, denim, warm reds
  • Avoid logos or heavy text
  • Closed-toed shoes or boots for muddy spots
  • Bring a light jacket as it’s often breezy

These colors photograph beautifully, and you’ll feel confident and comfortable.


Wild Mustard Fields in Half Moon Bay

For families who love open spaces, bright color, and real movement, a mustard field photoshoot here is pure magic.

The coast turns golden during mustard bloom season, and it’s the perfect time to capture playful, dreamy family photos. These vibrant fields create a magical, sun-drenched backdrop for images that feel light, joyful, and timeless.

  • Best photoshoot time: 10 AM or around 4 PM, right when the gates open or the hour before they close
  • Admission: $10 for adults, $5 for kids
  • Parking: No official lot, but there’s easy roadside parking nearby
  • Accessibility: Uneven dirt paths (not stroller-friendly)
  • Crowds: Busy on weekends during peak bloom, but plenty of space to spread out
  • Weather: Cool coastal breezes with crisp spring air
  • What to wear: White or yellow outfits look stunning; bring a jacket and wear washable clothes
  • Peak blooms: Mid-February to mid-March. I only schedule sessions when the field is at peak

Pick this if you want: A golden floral backdrop that feels cinematic, joyful, and one-of-a-kind.

Why families love it: Kids can be wild, curious, and themselves-and you still walk away with gorgeous photos. Just remember: there’s no shade, bathrooms, or water, so come prepared. Trust me, it’s worth it.


Where to Go: Directions and Parking Tips

The best location for a mustard field photoshoot is Iacopi Farms:

  • Located off Highway One, near the Ritz-Carlton Half Moon Bay
  • Search “Wild Mustard Super Bloom Half Moon Bay” in Google Maps
  • Watch closely-the field pops up fast on a quiet stretch of road

Parking:

  • Roadside parking available

Iacopi Farms Info: What You Need to Know

In recent years, the field has been open to visitors on weekends, but hours and availability can vary. I recommend calling ahead to confirm before your visit.

  • Open Saturdays and Sundays only
  • Hours: 10 AM to 5 PM
  • Admission: $10 adults, $5 kids
  • No bathrooms or shade-bring snacks and essentials
  • Call ahead: +1 (650) 726-6032

Supporting this local farm helps preserve access for future photo sessions.


Why Kids Love These Sessions

A mustard field photoshoot is fun, not forced:

  • Toddlers start picking flowers for mom (yes, seriously)
  • Kids laugh, explore, and forget the camera exists
  • These moments are what we capture-real, messy, joyful

Client quote: “It felt like hanging out in a field with my kids, and somehow we got the most beautiful pictures.”


Ready to Book Your Mustard Field Photoshoot?

These sessions book quickly each spring. Want:

  • Real photos that feel like your family?
  • A short session that fits your schedule?
  • A low-pressure, high-impact spring memory?

Then this is your sign.

Let’s make some magic-without the stress.


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About Me • About Me • About Me •

Welcome Friends, I'm Ellen

Photographer Serving the Bay Area Peninsula

I am a lifestyle and natural light photographer based in San Mateo County, serving families across the San Francisco Bay Area and Peninsula. I regularly photograph families in San Mateo, Burlingame, Palo Alto, Redwood City, and surrounding Peninsula communities.

I specialize in family, newborn, and maternity sessions that take place at home or outdoors, capturing genuine joy, connection, and beautifully candid moments.

Along with photography, I also offer cinematic highlight films to bring your family’s story to life in motion.

My sessions are fun, easy, and well guided. I use simple prompts and natural posing so you can relax, enjoy being together, and let me document the love and energy that make your family unique.

Photographer. Fitness lover. Wife. MOm. world traveler.