Meet Ellen: SF Peninsula Family Photographer
A Steady Guide for Portraits in Millbrae, Burlingame, and San Mateo County
I am a lifestyle and natural light photographer based in Millbrae. I serve families across the San Francisco Peninsula, from the historic homes of Burlingame to the garden estates of Palo Alto.
I specialize in family, newborn, and maternity sessions that are efficient, guided, and designed to take the pressure off parents. My approach focuses on real interaction and expert guidance. This results in photographs that reflect your genuine connection rather than a performance.
My goal is to be the memory keeper for families on the Bay Area Peninsula.
How a well-led approach shapes your photo experience
Hello, Parents!
Working with the right photographer changes how the entire experience feels. When you feel comfortable and supported, you do not have to manage the moment or worry about how your kids behave.
From our first conversation to your final gallery, my approach is calm, thoughtful, and well-led. I use simple prompts so your family can move easily and connect naturally. You deserve to be in the frame while feeling relaxed, radiant, and fully present.
Clean Timeless Editing
Genuine Candid Moments
Vibrant Radiant Natural Colors
Intentional Locations
Diverse Galleries & Quick Turnaround
Smooth & Simple Experience
My Signature Photography Style
Motherhood changed my perspective on photography. It deepened my desire to capture fleeting milestones. On weekends, you will find my family strolling through Downtown Burlingame, stopping for pastries at Maison Alyzée, or playing at the Washington Park playground. We love slow mornings at the Palo Alto Junior Museum and Zoo.
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I grew up in San Francisco and family has always been at the center of my life. My favorite childhood memories include Sunday dim sum in Millbrae, driving past the holiday lights on Eucalyptus Avenue in San Carlos, visiting Filoli in Woodside, and spending afternoons at Stanford Shopping Center in Palo Alto.
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I know the hidden gems of the SF Peninsula and enjoy sharing them with my clients. Whether it is a mint mojito at Philz Coffee, a ribeye from Pape Meat Company, or an apple pie from Copenhagen Bakery and Cafe, I am deeply rooted in this community.
Explore my Best Peninsula Family Photo Locations Guide.
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A few of my
Favorite things
morning ritual
Athletic Greens, coffee, and collagen peptides
Self Care
Lifting at F45 Training, sprinting at Orangetheory Fitness, hot vinyasa yoga at Vennu Yoga
Soul care
Moms night out in downtown Palo Alto or Redwood City
Favorite Local Brands
Quince and Antoine's Cookie Shop
You can find me
Savoring a solo meal on Burlingame Ave
favorite session location
Filoli in Woodside
Go-To Session Outfit
Flowy dress with a pop of color
how I want my clients to feel
I want you to feel like you are spending time with a trusted friend. I ensure you are fully taken care of from start to finish.
Comfortable with kids of all ages
I meet children where they are, from energetic preschoolers to newborns who need time. I create space for kids to be themselves.
Why Families Choose Me as Their Photographer
Calm, confident leadership
I take the lead so you do not have to manage the moment, even when toddlers bring big energy to Junipero Serra Park.
Attuned to real emotion
I watch closely and anticipate moments as they unfold. A sibling checking in. A shared laugh. A quiet pause. I capture connection before it passes.
Efficient without feeling rushed
I work intentionally to capture deep heart in less time. This is a major benefit for busy families in Burlingame and Palo Alto.
Guided posing that feels natural
I offer clear direction that feels comfortable and natural. A balance of lightly guided and in the moment images that help people relax and feel good in front of the camera.
Transforming Everyday Spaces
I find beauty in the ordinary, whether in your own nursery or a local neighborhood path in the Easton Addition.
Learn what makes me different and why SF Peninsula families choose me as their photographer for family, newborn, maternity, and meaningful milestone moments.
Burlingame (94010)
Palo Alto (94301)
San Mateo (94401)
Hillsborough (94010)
Menlo Park (94025)
Redwood City (94061)
I frequently serve families welcoming new arrivals at Mills-Peninsula Medical Center and Sequoia Hospital.
Serving Families Throughout the San Francisco Peninsula
Ready to capture your family’s story together?
Let’s create something your family will treasure for generations.
follow along @ellobelle.photography