The Best Locations for Family Photos in San Diego, CA
Whether you’re doing this for the first time, or the 5th, family photos are no easy feat but I’m here to share the top locations for family photos in San Diego
As a mom, I know the mental load that comes with family photos. (the timing, the outfits, the stress of hoping everyone is on their best behavior) I get it trust me. I have another blog post coming for you with all my advice! This one is just about location to help take this off your to do list!! My biggest piece of advice and hear me out is to shoot on a weekday. While yes, It’s not the most convenient with work schedules and yes there might be traffic, BUT after 10 years of shooting of families, I can tell you that my week days sessions are FAR more successful and chill. Why? well because crowds are entirely non-existent, parking is10x easier, and kids are way less distracted with no one walking around you! You’re also not worried about on lookers and can be fully present as you soak up these memories with your family!
So as a local with 10 years of photography experience under my belt, here are my top locations for family photos in san diego and why I think they’re the best not just for the background for photos, but for the ease that comes with the location!
And if you need help with all things outfits- scroll to the end, you’ll find all a link to get some inspo and actual links to shop for family photo outfits!
Coronado Beach
This gem just across from downtown san diego is a game changer location for family photos and the easiest spot once you’ve arrive I’ve found!
free parking and LOTS of it and a nearby bathroom!
Rolling sand dunes + wide open beach with a huge shoreline giving this spot lots of variety more than just a sandy beach.
Expansive and protected beach shore makes for plenty of space for littles to run around without worrying about big waves crashing in at a moments notice/
plenty of dinner + ice cream spots nearby making it the perfect spot to grab that treat you promised the kiddos after!
La Jolla Shores Scripps Pier (on a weekday!)
La jolla shores will always be my favorite place to shoot, but ONLY on a week day Monday-Thursday. You wont catch me here on the weekend fighting for a spot 20 other photographers. It’s not worth it on the weekend but it ABSOLUTELY is on a week day!
Free street parking + an easy walk down to the beach
breathtaking sunsets + ample shore line to run around with the kiddos
When the tide is low, you get access to the cliffs on the north side of the pier too making for a breathtaking backdrop
This spot is also dog friendly so if you’re wanting your fur baby included, this is the spot!
Marian Bear Park
A stunning meadow + deep green trees, and a flowing creek tucked in the hills of clairemont, this spot is for the nature lovers looking for a woodsy feel in San Diego!
Free easy parking literally next to the trail!
No hike to get to this stunning spot making it perfect for families!
Variety: you can shoot in the creek, the meadow, the trees of the grassy field! the options are endless.
Seasonal: wildflowers and flowing creek in the spring, golden meadow and greenery in the summer, and fall foliage in the fall/winter (as much as it can be here in SD)
Now, I hear you’re needing help with outfits for family photos? Look no further! I’ve made a closet just for you with shopable links!!! As a mom and photographer, I know the mental load that comes with family photos, so I’m here to help! Click below for all the help dressing your family for family photos!