Why Moms Love Kohl Mansion

If you’ve been searching for the perfect Bay Area spot for family photos, Kohl Mansion Burlingame might just be it. This historic gem in Burlingame is one of my favorite places to photograph families because it blends elegance with a relaxed, open setting that works beautifully for kids of all ages. From the moment you step onto the grounds, you feel like you’ve entered a storybook backdrop but one that’s still easy and practical for real families with busy schedules.

In this blog, I’ll share why I recommend Kohl Mansion to my clients, what makes it so special for moms, and how to plan a session there that feels fun and stress-free.

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The Charm of Kohl Mansion

There’s something magical about Kohl Mansion. The brick architecture is timeless, with ivy climbing up the walls and rose gardens framing every corner. It has the kind of old-world charm that makes you feel like you’re walking through a European estate, but without ever leaving Burlingame. When families see their photos here, they always tell me how elegant and dreamy the setting looks and yet, in the moment, it feels so comfortable and natural.

It’s not just the architecture though. The grounds are expansive, which means kids have the freedom to run, laugh, and explore. Parents love that their little ones don’t have to sit perfectly still the whole time. Some of my favorite images come from those spontaneous moments like kids rolling in the grass, parents chasing them in play, or everyone collapsing into a group hug on the lawn.

Light That Makes Photos Glow

Photographers are always chasing light, and Kohl Mansion Burlingame delivers it in every season. At golden hour, the front lawn is bathed in warm sunlight that filters through the tall trees, creating that magical glow families always hope for in their photos. Even earlier in the day, the property offers plenty of shaded areas where the light is soft and flattering. That flexibility is especially helpful for families with little ones who might not be up for a late evening session.

I often tell moms not to worry too much about the timing, because Kohl Mansion has so many beautiful spots to work with. Whether your kids are night owls or early risers, we can make the light work for your schedule.

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A Place Where Families Feel Comfortable

One of the things I appreciate most about Kohl Mansion Burlingame is how peaceful it usually is. Unlike a busy park or popular tourist spot, you don’t have to worry about dodging crowds or waiting for a spot to clear. Families often have big stretches of the property to themselves, which takes away so much pressure.

When kids feel like they can just be themselves, it changes the whole vibe of the session. I love capturing the laughter when siblings chase each other across the grass, or the quiet moments when a toddler curls into their parent’s lap on a bench. These are the in-between memories that mean the most, and Kohl Mansion provides the perfect backdrop for them to happen naturally.

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Real Family Joy at Kohl Mansion

I’ll never forget one particular session at Kohl Mansion Burlingame with a family of five. Their three children were exactly two years apart, and they kept me smiling from start to finish. We created a lineup shot with all three kids standing in perfect height order—it looked like something out of a magazine. Then, without missing a beat, the whole family launched into a group hug, kids squealing and parents laughing.

The moment that stuck with me most was when everyone decided to leap off the fountain ledge together. Arms stretched wide, mid-air giggles, and the purest expressions of joy—those photos are the kind families look back on years later and say, “That was us, right in the middle of the chaos, but so happy.” Kohl Mansion made those moments possible because it gave them the space to just play and be together.

Tips for Planning Your Session

Planning a family photo session can feel overwhelming, but it doesn’t have to be. At Kohl Mansion Burlingame, the setting already does so much of the heavy lifting. Here are a few things I tell moms before their session:

First, wear what feels good. Outfits don’t need to be complicated. Comfort and confidence always translate better in photos than stiff, overly coordinated looks. Soft tones, natural fabrics, or even one bold pop of color can bring everything together beautifully.

Read my for What to Wear for Family Photoshoot: A Style Guide for Busy Moms to help plan your outfits.

Want outfit inspo? Check out H&M’s kid section or Old Navy’s family styles for budget-friendly finds. Need glam inspo? Anthropologie has stunning dress options for moms.

Second, think about timing. Golden hour is my favorite for that dreamy light, but Kohl Mansion offers flexibility with its shaded areas. If your child’s nap or dinner time doesn’t align with sunset, don’t stress—we’ll still get stunning photos earlier in the day.

And finally, snacks and breaks are your best friends. Full bellies and little pauses for water or a quick snack keep kids engaged and happy. Honestly, the best sessions happen when we let the kids lead a bit. When they’re having fun, the smiles come naturally, and your photos reflect real joy.

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Why Kohl Mansion Works for Busy Moms

Every mom I’ve worked with here has said the same thing: it felt easy. And that is exactly what you need when you are juggling kids, schedules, and the million little things on your to-do list. You do not want a photo location that adds more stress. You want one that lets your family relax and enjoy.

Kohl Mansion Burlingame checks all the boxes. It is elegant but approachable, spacious yet peaceful, and versatile enough for both playful candids and frame-worthy portraits. When you look back at the gallery, you see not only how beautiful the place is, but how genuinely happy your family looks in it. Kohl Mansion is also one of those locations where, with my efficient workflow, I can create a diverse gallery of 60+ images with different backdrops and poses in under 45 minutes. Full sessions last up to an hour, which means we can spend the extra time exploring and playing, knowing that your gallery and “money shots” are already captured.

Ready to Book Your Session?

If you’re dreaming of timeless family photos that feel relaxed and real, Kohl Mansion Burlingame is a perfect choice. Whether your kids are twirling in the rose garden, running barefoot on the lawn, or cuddling up in your lap on a bench, this spot brings out the best in every family.

I’ll guide you every step of the way from choosing outfits and finding the best time of day to giving your family natural poses and prompts so all you have to do is relax and enjoy being together. No stress, no pressure, just laughter, connection, and beautiful memories captured in a place that feels like a hidden gem right here in the Bay Area.

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