Burlingame Family Photo Locations: Luxury and Tree Lined Gems
This guide covers the best Burlingame family photo locations, including Washington Park, Kohl Mansion, Bay Trail, the Easton Addition tree canopy, and charming downtown Burlingame Avenue.
Burlingame family photo locations offer some of the most charming and family friendly settings on the San Francisco Peninsula. From tree lined neighborhoods and garden parks to waterfront paths along the Bay, these Burlingame family photo locations give families beautiful scenery while keeping sessions relaxed and toddler friendly. Many parents choose Burlingame because the parks are easy to walk, the light is soft during golden hour, and the atmosphere feels calm for natural family portraits.
San Mateo County offers an incredible range of family photo locations. From redwood forests to waterfront parks and coastal beaches, the San Francisco Peninsula provides some of the most beautiful natural backdrops in the Bay Area.
Within this landscape, Burlingame stands out for its mature tree canopy, quiet parks, and walkable neighborhoods. Many of the best Burlingame family photo locations are stroller friendly, toddler approved, and filled with soft golden hour light that makes portraits feel timeless.
As a Burlingame family photographer, I guide families toward locations where children can explore comfortably while genuine connection unfolds naturally.
What Are Burlingame Family Photo Locations?
Burlingame family photo locations are outdoor spaces in Burlingame, CA that provide beautiful natural backdrops for relaxed family portraits. These locations often include tree lined streets, garden parks, waterfront paths, and historic architecture. Families often choose Burlingame because the parks are easy to walk, the scenery changes within just a few blocks, and golden hour light creates soft, natural portraits.
Planning Family Photos in Burlingame?
You’re probably wondering where you can take photos that look beautiful and feel easy with kids in tow.
I’ve photographed many Peninsula families, and these are my favorite Burlingame family photo locations that are calm, stroller friendly, and full of genuine charm. Whether you’re looking for a dreamy garden, waterfront breeze, or just a quiet park where your toddler can roam, this list has you covered.
Many families planning Burlingame family photo locations are also looking for a photographer who understands how to guide relaxed sessions with young children. As a San Mateo County family photographer, I photograph families across Burlingame and the surrounding Peninsula with a calm, connection driven approach. You can explore my family photo portfolio and Peninsula family photography experience.
Map of the Best Burlingame Family Photo Locations
Some of the most loved Burlingame family photo locations include:
- Washington Park for gardens and open lawns
- Kohl Mansion for historic architecture and elegant portraits
- Bay Trail for waterfront views and sunset light
- Easton Addition for tree canopy streets and quiet luxury backdrops
- Burlingame Avenue for charming walkable city portraits
Best Burlingame Family Photo Locations in Local Parks
Washington Park: A Refined Classic for Modern Families
Burlingame family photo location with flowers, shade, and space to play.
Washington Park is one of the best parks in Burlingame for kids and one of the most versatile Burlingame family photo locations. Heritage oak trees create beautiful filtered light, while the rose garden and open lawns provide a variety of backdrops within a short walk.
Because the park is centrally located near Burlingame Avenue, many families enjoy planning a relaxed morning session followed by brunch nearby. If you’d like to see more examples and helpful tips for planning a session here, you can explore my Washington Park photography guide.
Why it works
Wide lawns, rose gardens, and lavender
Rustic wooden rails and benches for natural posing
Plenty of room for toddlers to explore
Natural backgrounds that photograph beautifully
Real session moment: I once photographed siblings here who stopped to smell every single rose before letting me take their photo. It was hilarious and so sweet. That moment is exactly why I love this spot.
What to know
Best photo times: Mid morning or golden hour
Parking: Small lot plus street parking
Accessibility: Flat and stroller friendly
Crowds: Light even on weekends
Mom approved tip: My toddler didn’t want to leave. It felt more like a playdate than a photo session.
The Easton Addition: Iconic Tree Canopy and Luxury Charm
One of the most unique Burlingame family photo locations is the Easton Addition neighborhood. Burlingame is known as a Tree City USA community, and this neighborhood showcases that reputation beautifully.
Towering oak and eucalyptus trees form a canopy over quiet residential streets. The filtered light creates a soft whimsical glow that feels peaceful and private.
For families seeking a slightly elevated aesthetic, Easton Addition luxury photography sessions feel timeless and elegant while still relaxed.
I often guide families through these quiet residential streets where the architecture and towering trees create a naturally beautiful backdrop away from the Burlingame Avenue crowds.
Kohl Mansion: Historic Elegance for Family Photos
Burlingame family photo location with classic architecture and natural charm.
Kohl Mansion is one of the most iconic photography locations in Burlingame. Ivy covered brick walls, grand staircases, and expansive lawns create portraits that feel timeless and elegant. If you would like to see more examples and helpful planning tips, you can explore my Kohl Mansion photography guide for more information.
Why it works
- Ivy covered brick and historic architecture
- Wide lawns for children to move freely
- Rose gardens and elegant walkways
- A polished look that still feels natural
Real session moment: A dad chased his toddler across the lawn while mom laughed against the ivy wall. The photos felt joyful and effortless.
What to know
- Best photo times: Late afternoon and golden hour
- Parking: On site lot
- Accessibility: Stroller friendly
- Permit: No permit is required. Kohl Mansion simply requests a recommended donation of about $100 to Mercy High School to use the grounds for your portrait session.
Mom approved tip: It felt fancy but still completely us.
If you want to explore more Peninsula locations, this guide to the best family photo locations across the San Francisco Peninsula.
Waterfront Burlingame Family Photo Locations
Bay Trail: Waterfront Views and Open Space
For families who love open sky and water views, the Bay Trail offers a peaceful setting with very few crowds.
Why it works
- Waterfront backdrops and wooden decks
- White guardrails that photograph beautifully
- Wooden bridges and fishing pier
- Planes flying overhead that toddlers love
What to know
- Best photo times: Golden hour
- Parking: Easy on site lot
- Accessibility: Flat and stroller friendly
- Weather: Can be windy so bring layers
Mom approved tip: It felt like a mini vacation.
Burlingame Avenue: Walkable and Charming
Burlingame family photo location with small town charm and city texture.
For families who want something a little different from parks and gardens, Burlingame Avenue offers a charming downtown setting with classic architecture and walkable streets.
Why it works
- The landscaping and stonework in front of the former Burlingame Main Post Office at 220 Park Road create a clean architectural backdrop for modern family portraits.
- The historic Burlingame Caltrain Station adds vintage charm with its arched architecture and warm tones.
- It is a wonderful location for candid walking photos, playful moments with kids, and relaxed portraits that feel natural rather than posed.
- Many families start with urban portraits near the post office, stroll toward the station, and finish with natural portraits at nearby Washington Park.
What to know
- Best photo time: Golden hour
- Parking: Meters and garages nearby
- Accessibility: Very walkable
- Crowds: Mild to moderate on weekends
Mom approved tip:
“We looked like ourselves, just on a good day. The train station gave it such a classic nostalgic feel.”
Tips for Choosing a Family Photo Location
Choosing the right location helps the entire session feel relaxed and natural.
- Choose locations where children can move safely and comfortably
- Look for soft golden hour light whenever possible
- Select stroller friendly spaces for young families
- Think about the overall feeling you want your portraits to have
You may also find these family photoshoot tips helpful when preparing for your session.
Best Sunset Burlingame Family Photo Locations
The best time of day for most Burlingame family photo locations is during golden hour, which happens an hour before sunset. During this time the sunlight becomes softer and warmer, creating flattering light that feels natural and timeless in photographs. The tall trees throughout Burlingame also help filter the light beautifully, especially in neighborhoods like the Easton Addition and parks like Washington Park. Morning sessions can also work well for families with young children, particularly in open parks where the light is fresh and the crowds are quieter.
Frequently Asked Questions About Burlingame Family Photo Locations
Where are the best family photo locations on the Peninsula?
The San Francisco Peninsula offers beaches, gardens, redwood forests, and waterfront parks. Burlingame family photo locations are especially popular because they combine tree lined neighborhoods with beautiful parks and easy access.
Is Washington Park too crowded for photos?
Washington Park can be popular, but most of the activity stays near the playground, basketball courts, and baseball fields. I usually photograph families near the rose garden and the open lawns off to the side of the park, where it feels much quieter and more relaxed. I also schedule sessions during calmer windows, such as weekend mornings or golden hour, and the park is large enough that we can easily move to different areas if needed.
What should we wear for an Easton Addition session?
Neutral tones like cream, soft blue, or warm pastels photograph beautifully against the lush tree canopy.
Are beach photos good for families?
Yes. Waterfront locations allow children to move freely while staying close together, which creates natural moments and connection in photos. The open space and soft light also make these spots especially beautiful during sunset golden hour. Many families simply stroll along the shoreline or walk together, which helps the photos feel relaxed and true to everyday life.
What locations work best with toddlers?
Washington Park and Bay Trail work especially well because of the open space and stroller friendly paths.
Can we include our dog in Burlingame sessions?
Absolutely! Burlingame is incredibly dog-friendly. Washington Park is a great spot for pups on a thin neutral leash, allowing us to capture your whole family in a “whimsical city vibe.”
Ready to Plan Your Burlingame Family Photo Session?
Families across San Mateo County and the San Francisco Peninsula often choose Burlingame for family photos because the parks are calm, the neighborhoods are beautiful, and the golden hour light is especially soft beneath the tree canopy.
You can view family session details and pricing. If the timing feels right, you can simply check availability and begin planning your session.
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.
follow along @ellobelle.photography
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