Bay Area Lifestyle Photographer
I'm Ellen, a Millbrae based photographer serving families across the San Francisco Peninsula.
My sessions are calm, guided, and designed to feel easier than you expect.
Toddlers who need to move.
Newborns who need breaks.
Partners who feel awkward in front of the camera.
Parents who already have enough to manage.
Having grown up in San Francisco and now raising my family in Millbrae, I know the SF Peninsula inside and out, from the best golden hour locations to the parking lots parents actually appreciate.
I'll take care of the rest.
You get to focus on your family.
Guided posing that feels natural
Absolute permission to be yourself
Calm, efficient leadership
Local SF Peninsula expertise
Diverse Galleries & Quick Turnaround
My sessions are calm, guided, and built for real people.
That shapes every part of how I work.
I know how to create a plan, keep things moving, adapt when real life happens, and help families feel taken care of from start to finish.
Having grown up in San Francisco and now raising my family in Millbrae, I know the SF Peninsula through the eyes of both a child and a parent.
These days, you'll often find me chasing my toddler through downtown Burlingame, playing at Washington Park, or spending slow mornings at the Palo Alto Junior Museum and Zoo.
Motherhood has shaped how I photograph families. I'm always looking for the moments parents will treasure most. The way your child fits in your arms, the laughter you share, and the little expressions that make this season uniquely yours.
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Some of my favorite family memories are woven throughout San Mateo County.
Sunday dim sum in Millbrae. Holiday lights on Eucalyptus Avenue in San Carlos. Garden walks through Filoli in Woodside. Afternoons at Stanford Shopping Center in Palo Alto.
These places are beautiful backdrops for family photos on the SF Peninsula, and they're also where everyday memories are made.
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When you book a session, you get more than a photographer.
You get someone who knows which locations work well for toddlers, where parking is easiest, and where the light is best throughout the year.
From redwood trails and rose gardens to coastal paths and neighborhood parks, I'll help you choose a location that feels beautiful, practical, and effortless for your family.
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"It felt like we were hanging out with a very talented friend who just happened to have a camera in her hand. The session was relaxed, full of laughs, and she somehow made our local neighborhood park feel like a secret garden."
– Helen L.
The Ellen Difference
Engineer Brain
Before photography, I spent years in engineering and project management. I bring thoughtful planning, organization, and a seamless experience to every session.
Calm Leadership
I take the lead so you can stop managing everyone, be present with your family, and trust that I'll take care of the details.
Natural Guidance
I can't stand a limp arm hanging awkwardly in a photo. You'll never be left wondering where to look, what to do with your hands, or how to stand.
SF Peninsula Location Insider
The right location, the right light, and the easiest logistics. I know the SF Peninsula spots where families can avoid crowds, toddlers can safely explore, and sessions feel effortless.
Diverse Galleries & Custom Photo Albums
I'll capture the smiling-at-the-camera portrait grandparents love, along with candid moments and genuine connection. Every full session includes a complimentary custom designed photo album.
Toddler Friendly
As a toddler mom and preschool photographer, your kids are in good hands. Wiggles, snack breaks, big feelings, and lots of movement are always welcome here.
Relaxed, guided photography for every season of family life.
Photography Services
Calm, baby-led sessions at home without pressure for everything to feel perfect.
Joyful, natural family photos with room for kids to move, play, and be themselves.
Natural maternity photos that feel relaxed, flattering, and fully guided.
Confident, personality filled portraits that feel modern, easy, and true to you.
It was so much easier than we expected.
"She made the scheduling, logistics, and session super easy and fun for my family of five."
- Regina F., San Mateo Mom of 3
"She was so patient with my four year old son who is a tornado."
- Tammy, San Mateo Mom
Your kids are in good hands.
Relaxed does not mean directionless.
"She gave clear directions so the poses came out looking natural."
- Zaneta, San Mateo Dog Mom
She knew exactly what she was doing.
"I completely trusted Ellen with the location, timing, and outfits, and I'm so glad I did."
- Denise, Millbrae Toddler Mom
She finds beauty in the everyday.
"She found the most photogenic spots in our neighborhood park and somehow made it feel like a secret garden."
- Helen, San Francisco Mom of 2
Ellen made us feel completely at ease.
"The entire session felt natural and fun, never forced or awkward."
- Helen, SF Mom
She captured us just being ourselves.
"Nothing felt stiff or overly posed. She took so much pressure off."
- JW, Burlingame Mom of 2
Organized from beginning to end.
"She provided outfit recommendations, selected the perfect location, and answered every question."
- Kaitlyn S., Burlingame Mom of 2
This Season Won't Stay The Same
The toddler who still wants to be carried.
The missing front teeth and cheesy smile.
The sweet baby curls.
The preteen who's taller than you before you're ready for it.
These are the moments you'll want to remember long after they've changed.
follow along @ellobelle.photography