Bay Area Photography Locations for Families
Planning Family Photos at Bay Area Photography Locations
If you’re a busy parent searching for Bay Area photography locations, you probably just want a spot that’s beautiful, easy, and kid-approved. I get it. You don’t need complicated. You need somewhere with great light, parking that doesn’t cause meltdowns, and space for your kids (and maybe your dog) to run.
This guide includes my favorite photography spots in the Bay Area. These are locations I recommend over and over because they are scenic, parent-friendly, and deliver timeless photos every single time.
Why Choosing the Right Bay Area Photography Location Matters
Family photos should feel fun, not stressful. The right location makes all the difference because:
- Your kids will be happier. Wide open spaces give them room to run, explore, and laugh.
- You’ll feel more relaxed. A calm backdrop means you can actually enjoy the session.
- The photos will feel timeless. Light, landscape, and connection come together naturally.
And don’t worry, I scout these Bay Area photography locations with parents in mind. Easy parking. Stroller-friendly options. Room for pets. Basically, all the things that make life easier.
Best Bay Area Photography Locations for Families
Laurelwood Park, Redwood Grove, Mori Point, Washington Park, Leo Ryan Park, Kohl Mansion, Coyote Point, Central Park, Lands End, Rockaway Beach, Pumpass Fields, and the Arizona Cactus Garden are just a handful of the incredible Bay Area photography locations available. Each one offers something unique whether it is dramatic coastal cliffs, enchanted forests, peaceful gardens, or family-friendly parks.
The beauty of living here is that there is truly a Bay Area photography location for every family. If you want elegant and timeless, we’ll head to Kohl Mansion. If you want playful and natural, Central Park might be perfect. And if you want adventurous and bold, Mori Point or Lands End will take your photos to another level.
Best Bay Area Photography Locations in San Francisco Peninsula
Laurelwood Park, San Mateo
I still remember photographing a family here where the little brother ran down the grassy hill laughing, and his older sister just chased him until they collapsed in giggles. Laurelwood Park feels like a hidden gem where families can slow down and just be themselves. With shady groves, open grassy areas, and soft golden light streaming through the trees, it is one of my go-to spots for relaxed, timeless photos.
Idea photoshoot times: Mid morning, late afternoon, golden hour
Parking: Free street parking
Accessibility: Flat paths, easy for strollers
Crowds: Not crowded, plenty of variety to find space
Weather climate: Mild, shaded, protected from wind
Pick this location if you want: Scenic trails, shady groves, and relaxed, natural family photos
Why families love it: It is not crowded, it is easy to get to, and the photos look timeless. One family shared, “We love that the kids could run around and still look picture perfect with all the greenery.”
Washington Park, Burlingame
I once photographed siblings here who insisted on smelling every rose in the garden before letting me take their photo. It was so sweet. Washington Park has that charming, garden-like feel with lavender, roses, and wide open green spaces. It is simple, timeless, and perfect for families with little ones who need space to play between photos.
Idea photoshoot times: Mid morning, late afternoon, golden hour
Parking: Two lots plus street parking, five to ten minute walk
Accessibility: Flat, stroller friendly paths
Crowds: Rarely too crowded even on weekends
Weather climate: Mild and shaded
Pick this location if you want: A garden style park with a playful, relaxed vibe
Why families love it: They can let little ones wander while still staying close by, and the photos always look calm and sweet.
Leo Ryan Park, Foster City
One of my favorite memories here was photographing a family as a flock of geese glided across the water behind them. Talk about perfect timing. Leo Ryan Park is calm and scenic, with sunsets that reflect on the lagoon and make the whole place glow. It feels peaceful and serene, but still fun for families.
Idea photoshoot times: Golden hour for reflections, also mid morning
Parking: Free street parking, short walk to lagoon
Accessibility: Stroller friendly paths
Crowds: Spacious enough to spread out even if busy
Weather climate: Mild and calm, rarely windy
Pick this location if you want: Peaceful water views and glowing golden light
Why families love it: The park feels relaxed, and kids can run or spot geese by the water while parents enjoy the calm.
Kohl Mansion, Burlingame
Kohl Mansion looks grand and elegant, but when I photograph families here, it always feels warm and playful. I once captured a dad chasing his toddler across the lawn while mom leaned against the ivy-covered walls laughing. It is those spontaneous moments that make this location shine. With brick architecture, rose gardens, and wide lawns, it is timeless and stunning.
Idea photoshoot times: Late afternoon and golden hour
Parking: On-site lot, easy access
Accessibility: Stroller friendly
Crowds: Occasionally busy with weddings, but otherwise calm
Weather climate: Mild, shaded, and not windy
Pick this location if you want: Classic architecture and dreamy, elegant backdrops
Why families love it: Parents adore how elegant the photos look while kids can still play and be themselves.
Coyote Point, San Mateo
Every time I shoot at Coyote Point, I find a new little corner that feels fresh. One time it was eucalyptus groves, the next it was along the water where kids were skipping rocks. This spot has so much variety that it feels like multiple locations rolled into one.
Idea photoshoot times: Mid morning, late afternoon, golden hour
Parking: Six dollar parking fee, five minute walk to photo areas
Accessibility: Trails can be tricky for strollers
Crowds: Manageable even on weekends
Weather climate: Can get windy, but I know sheltered spots
Pick this location if you want: Variety and adventure in one place
Why families love it: Kids love the playground and open space, and parents love that they can get multiple backdrops in one session.
Central Park, San Mateo
Central Park has a little bit of everything. Rose gardens, redwoods, and wide lawns make this a classic family-friendly spot. I once photographed a family picnic here mid-session and the kids were so happy with their snack break that the smiles lasted the rest of the shoot.
Idea photoshoot times: Mid morning, late afternoon, golden hour
Parking: Free street parking nearby
Accessibility: Stroller friendly paths
Crowds: Busier on weekends, best weekday mornings or evenings
Weather climate: Mild and calm
Pick this location if you want: Classic greenery and a calm, simple park setting
Why families love it: It is easy to access, has plenty of space, and always delivers beautiful, timeless photos.
Filoli Gardens, Woodside
Filoli Gardens in Woodside has a magical secret garden feel that is perfect for families wanting beautiful timeless photos. With seasonal blooms, lush greenery, and peaceful garden paths, it is a stunning spot year round. From vibrant spring flowers to cozy fall colors, there is always something lovely in bloom and the historic estate and mansion add an extra touch of charm.
Idea photoshoot times: From November to February, golden hour aligns with closing time, offering soft light throughout the grounds. In other months, early morning or late afternoon is best. During summer, “Summer Nights” keep the gardens open until 8 p.m. on select days.
Parking: Free with admission.
Hours: Open daily from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. (advance ticket purchase required).
Accessibility: Stroller-friendly paths throughout the gardens.
Crowds: Quieter on weekdays; weekends tend to be busier.
Climate: Mild and calm most of the year.
Choose this location if you want: Classic greenery, seasonal beauty, and a peaceful, upscale garden setting.
Crowds: Busier on weekends, best weekdays
Ticket Note: If you choose this location, please plan to purchase admission tickets for your group and the photographer.
Pick this location if you want: Classic greenery, seasonal beauty, and a peaceful, upscale garden setting.
Tickets: If you opt for a session here, you purchase the tickets for your group and me as the photographer so be sure to plan in that additional cost.
Why families love it: Filoli is easy to access, spacious, and offers an iconic, beautifully maintained estate with formal gardens that feel both grand and serene.
Explore Filoli Gardens
Best Bay Area Photography Locations in the San Francisco Coastline
Mori Point Beach, Pacifica
The first time I photographed a family at Mori Point, the wind picked up and mom’s dress just danced in the breeze. It looked like it was straight from a magazine cover. With dramatic cliffs, sweeping ocean views, and golden light spilling across the bluffs, this location is adventurous and freeing. It is a dream spot for families who want something a little wild and untamed.
Idea photoshoot times: Golden hour sunset
Parking: Free street parking, two minute walk to bluffs
Accessibility: Trails are easy but not stroller friendly
Crowds: Can be busy in fall, but there is plenty of space to spread out
Weather climate: Overcast and breezy, bring layers
Pick this location if you want: A dramatic, adventurous backdrop with sweeping coastal views
Why families love it: Kids feel free to explore and run around, and the photos always look epic and full of life. feel free to explore and run around, and the photos always look epic and full of life.
Rockaway Beach and Pumpass Fields, Pacifica
This combo is unbeatable. I have had sessions where we started with kids splashing their toes at Rockaway Beach and then wandered into Pumpass Fields where golden pampas grass towered around them. It is a mix of dramatic coastal views and soft, romantic fields all within walking distance.
Idea photoshoot times: Golden hour sunset
Parking: Small lot or street parking, short walk to both areas
Accessibility: Trails are not stroller friendly
Crowds: Can be popular in the fall, but the open spaces make it easy to find quiet spots
Weather climate: Often overcast and breezy, perfect for soft, coastal light
Pick this location if you want: A mix of coastal cliffs and dreamy golden grass fields in one session
Why families love it: You get the best of both worlds, dramatic ocean views and whimsical golden fields. Parents appreciate the variety, and kids love exploring two different environments in one outing.
Pumpas Fields, Pacifica
Pumpas Fields is one of those spots that feels straight out of a romantic movie. Imagine endless waves of golden pampas grass swaying in the breeze with coastal cliffs in the background. Pampas grass is technically non-native, but here along the Pacifica coast, it creates a dreamy, whimsical setting that’s unlike anything else in the Bay Area. This spot shines at the end of summer through fall when the grasses are at their fullest and most golden.
- Idea photoshoot times: Golden hour sunset
- Parking: Small lot and nearby street parking, short walk to the fields
- Accessibility: Trails are narrow and not stroller friendly
- Crowds: Popular in the fall, but there’s plenty of space to spread out
- Weather climate: Often overcast, mild
- Pick this location if you want: Golden grassy fields for a dreamy, natural vibe
Why families love it: The fields feel magical and different from a typical park. Parents love the soft, romantic backdrop, while kids have fun running through the tall grasses.
Best Bay Area Photography Locations in Silicon Valley and south Bay
Arizona Cactus Garden, Palo Alto
The first time I brought a family here, their toddler shouted, “It is like a jungle but with cactuses.” And he was not wrong. With winding paths, towering succulents, and desert vibes, this garden feels so unique for Bay Area photos. It is easy, flat, and looks amazing year round.
Idea photoshoot times: Late afternoon and golden hour
Parking: Free on weekends, free after 4:30 on weekdays
Accessibility: Flat, stroller friendly paths
Crowds: Busier in spring, quieter other seasons
Weather climate: Mild, sunny, and protected
Pick this location if you want: A unique desert chic vibe without leaving the Bay Area
Why families love it: They are always surprised by how fun and different it feels, and kids love exploring the unusual plants.
Learn more about the Arizona Cactus Garden here.
Redwood Grove Nature Preserve, Los Altos
This spot always makes me feel like I have stepped into a fairytale. I once photographed a mom holding her newborn on the boardwalk while her toddler peeked around the giant redwoods, and the light was just magical. Redwood Grove is cozy, shaded, and has that enchanted forest vibe that feels timeless every season.
Idea photoshoot times: Mid morning, late afternoon, golden hour
Parking: Free street parking, five minute walk into the grove
Accessibility: Shaded paths, stroller friendly
Crowds: Popular with photographers in fall, but large enough to find quiet corners
Weather climate: Mild, shaded, not windy
Pick this location if you want: A magical redwood forest vibe for timeless family photos
Why families love it: Kids adore the boardwalk and exploring the paths, and parents love how natural and cozy the photos feel here.
Lands End, San Francisco
This is one of those locations where I often hear parents say, “Wow, I cannot believe this is in our backyard.” With rugged cliffs, Sutro Baths, and sweeping ocean views, Lands End feels iconic and adventurous. The trails make the whole session feel like a family outing, not just a photoshoot.
Idea photoshoot times: Early morning or golden hour
Parking: Lot available, five minute walk to trails
Accessibility: Trails are steep and not stroller friendly
Crowds: Popular but manageable midweek
Weather climate: Coastal and windy, bring jackets
Pick this location if you want: Iconic San Francisco views and dramatic coastal backdrops
Why families love it: The adventure of walking the trails together makes the photos feel even more memorable.
Choosing A Bay Area Photography Location
That is my roundup of the Bay Area photography locations. I hope this post has helped you discover the perfect family, maternity, or couples location for your next photo session. I always love scouting new spots, and using familiar locations in unique ways is one of my favorite specialties. This certainly is not an exhaustive list of every rad Bay Area photography location, but just some of my favorites that I wanted to share with you.
If you would like to get on my booking calendar, you can contact me here. I cannot wait to explore the Bay Area’s magnificent beauty with you and record some forever memories for you and your loved ones.
If you love reading this blog, you will also love:
READ LATEST
the
Photographer. Workout Queen. Mom. World Traveler.
About Ellen
I approach photography the same way I approach life:
with whimsical enthusiasm, joyous intention, and a splash of spontaneity. Premium photography doesn’t have to be so serious or scripted. I believe it can be joyful, vibrant, and natural - just like you! Great company, genuine laughter, and celebrating meaningful moments are the true ingredients of life’s magic.
BEST THE Blog
of
The Newborn Haze & Why I Regret Not Choosing Newborn Lifestyle Photography I barely remember those early days after I brought home my son—the first week was a total blur. I didn’t leave the house because my whole world was happening within those four walls: feeding, changing, figuring out how to assemble and sterilize bottles, […]
+ Show / Hide Comments
Share to: