Can’t find the best location for your photoshoot? More often than not, I get asked on what locations I can suggest to my clients. And more often than not, I’m scouring through my photos for ideas. Luckily for us, San Francisco and most of the Bay Area has some of the best views. So the hardest part is picking just one location!
These locations are a mix of my most requested spots as well as a couple of my favorites. Want to try somewhere new for the both of us? Scroll down to the bottom to see my wish list locations!
Arizona Cactus Garden (Palo Alto)
I absolutely love this location. In the past year or so, it has garnered a lot of popularity and for good reason! This Arizona Cactus Garden is located at Stanford right by the hospital. It’s tucked away but not gated so you can visit it at any time. With hundreds of different variations of cacti and succulents, it really is a sight to see! If bringing little ones, just remember to keep a watchful eye on them so they don’t end up getting pricked.
Baker Beach
A popular spot among out of towners! You got the beach and the Golden Gate Bridge in all its glory as an iconic backdrop. This location is a classic and on a sunny day, you can never go wrong.
Conservatory of Flowers
Conservatory of Flowers is my go-to for a foggy or even rainy day. The tropical atmosphere makes you feel like you’re in Hawaii and has so much natural light! San Francisco weather can be a bit unpredictable so this a great indoor alternative just in case Karl the Fog makes an appearance.
Crissy Field
If you’re not a beachy person but still want the Golden Gate in the background, Crissy Field is a great option. Even more beautiful during golden hour, all we need is a picnic blanket! Perfect for families or as a second location for my couples.
Lands End/Sutro Baths
Now for the big one…Land’s End! This is the most requested location and it’s not hard to figure out why. You got trees, the ocean, the beach, and some bath ruins! A location for clients who want a diverse backdrop and multiple outfit changes to fit the scene. It does get crowded here on the weekends but it’s not impossible to get amazing shots without anyone in view. I never get tired of shooting here.
Lover’s Lane
Lover’s Lane is quickly becoming my favorite! It’s almost never crowded so I like to think it’s still a local secret. Most of the people who visit Lover’s Lane usually pass through while they take their walks. It does become magical once the sun hits the trees at just the right angle. Perfect for engagement photos and the name is kind of fitting, isn’t it?
Palace of Fine Arts
Palace of Fine Arts competes with Lands End in terms of popularity. On any given weekend, you can find elegant quinceañera photoshoots and even weddings under the big dome. It is a bit more difficult to avoid crowds here so I suggest coming on a weekday for this location. It’s beautiful if you’re looking for a classy session and want to wear a dress (or button downs and slacks for you fellas).
Sycamore Grove Park (Livermore)
I’ve only been here once but I’ve been dying to go back! It’s hard to find a nice field of dry grass in San Francisco so when I had the opportunity to come here, I was so excited! I love the rustic vibe mixed with the sun. It’s different from what I’m used to when shooting in the city so I love being able to experience this. If you’re in the East Bay, I highly recommend this spot!
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