Embracing the beauty of autumn is a cherished tradition for many families in the South San Francisco Bay Area. The cooling temperatures and the burst of colors that sweep through the landscape create an ideal backdrop for unforgettable family photography sessions. If you're searching for the perfect fall setting to capture your family's precious moments, look no further. I am here to guide you through the top recommendations for the best fall family photography location that will not only frame your memories but also infuse them with the warm and vibrant spirit of the season.
NO.1 Vasona Lake County Park
Nestled in the heart of the South San Francisco Bay Area, Vasona Lake County Park is a hidden gem waiting to be discovered by families seeking the perfect backdrop for their cherished memories. With its tranquil lake, sweeping grassy expanses, and panoramic views of the Bay Area, this park is a photographer's dream come true. Its accessibility by car makes it an ideal choice for families with little ones in tow, allowing you to effortlessly explore a variety of enchanting settings and capture the true essence of your family's bonds against the backdrop of nature's finest. For a memorable family photoshoot that encapsulates both beauty and convenience, Vasona Lake County Park is an absolute must-visit.
Address:
333 Blossom Hill Rd Los Gatos, CA 95032
Hours:
8:00 AM - Sunset
Parking:
$6
NO.2 Foothills Nature Preserve
The landscape here boasts breathtaking natural beauty, encompassing a serene lake nestled at the mountain's base, lush grasslands gracing the slopes, and a panoramic vista of the Bay Area from the summit. This diverse terrain offers a myriad of picturesque scenes, and on occasion, you may even have the delightful chance to encounter local wildlife like deer and coyotes. What sets this location apart from others is its accessibility – instead of long walks, you can easily traverse to various shooting spots by car, ensuring a seamless and enjoyable photography experience.
Address:
11799 Page Mill Rd, Los Altos Hills, CA 94022
Hours:
8:00 AM - Sunset
Parking:
$6
NO.3 Filoli Historic House & Garden
Tucked away in the serene woodlands of California, Filoli is a hidden treasure that beckons families to embrace the magic of fall during their photography session. This historic estate and garden are replete with opportunities to craft captivating family portraits against a backdrop of vibrant foliage and timeless architecture. Picture-perfect moments await as you explore the diverse settings, each revealing the essence of the season. As the sun sets, Filoli transforms into a holiday wonderland, making it a magical destination for capturing cherished holiday night memories amidst its twinkling lights and festive decorations. With its rich palette of reds, oranges, and gold, Filoli is nature's own masterpiece, ready to be artfully framed through the lens. Beyond its visual splendor, Filoli's family-friendly atmosphere ensures that your photoshoot will not only be artistically rewarding but also a delightful experience for every family member. For an autumn and holiday photography session that seamlessly blends natural beauty, historical charm, and family-focused enchantment, Filoli is the photographer's ultimate canvas, beckoning you to capture its seasonal brilliance.
Address:
86 Cañada Rd, Woodside, CA 94062
Hours:
Everyday 10:00 am- 5:00 pm
Entry fee:
Parking:
Free
*No permit for family photography
NO. 4 Almaden Lake Park
Almaden Lake Park, nestled in the heart of the South San Francisco Bay Area, is a hidden gem that promises a fantastic family photoshoot experience. With its tranquil lake, picturesque trails, and lush green surroundings, this park offers an idyllic backdrop for capturing those cherished family moments. What makes it even more enticing is its family-friendly atmosphere, complete with playgrounds and picnic areas that cater to all ages, making it the perfect place for a relaxed and enjoyable photography session.
Address:
6099 Winfield Blvd, San Jose, CA 95120
Hours:
8 a.m. to 1 hour after sunset
Parking:
$6
NO. 5 Ed R. Levin County Park
Ed R. Levin County Park is a standout choice for families in search of a captivating setting for their fall photography sessions. With its vast and diverse landscapes, from undulating hills adorned in golden foliage to tranquil lakes mirroring the autumnal spectrum, this park provides an ideal canvas for encapsulating the spirit of the season and the intimacy of family connections.
Address:
3100 Calaveras Rd, Milpitas, CA 95035
Hours:
8:00 am — Sunset
Parking:
$6
NO. 6 Coyote Hills
Coyote Hills Regional Park, with its commanding mountains and sweeping bay views, emerges as a wonderful recommendation for families seeking a distinct and family-friendly fall photography destination. While the park may not be heavily wooded, it exudes a special winter-like allure, creating a delightful atmosphere for your photography session. Roaming outdoors at Coyote Hills Regional Park feels like a family adventure, making each photograph a part of your shared exploration of nature's wonders. The rugged terrain and expansive vistas provide an ideal backdrop for capturing cherished family moments against a backdrop of breathtaking natural beauty.
Address:
8000 Patterson Ranch Road, Fremont, CA 94555
Hours:
Jan. 1 - Feb 28: 7am-6pm
Mar. 1 - 31: 7am-7pm
Apr. 1 - Sep 30: 8am-8pm
Oct. 1 - 31: 8am-7pm
Nov. 1 - 27: 8am-6pm
Nov 28-Dec. 31: 7am-6pm
Parking:
$5 per vehicle; $4 per trailered vehicle. Buses: $25/per bus | Dogs: $2 per dog. Guide/service dogs free. Dogs must be leashed and under control at all times
NO. 7 Garin Regional Park
Garin Regional Park beckons like a portal to a fairy tale world, making it an unmissable destination for your upcoming family fall photoshoot. Its landscape is a harmonious fusion of undulating hills, adorned in the rich and vivid colors of autumn, tranquil meadows adorned with a delicate tapestry of wildflowers, and enduring historic structures that lend an air of timelessness to the surroundings. In this idyllic haven, your family can relax, basking in the embrace of nature's beauty, while I work my magic to capture the authentic warmth and profound connection that define your unique family bond. It's not just a location; it's a story waiting to be woven into your cherished memories.
Address:
1320 Garin Ave, Hayward, CA 94544
Hours:
Nov. 1-Mar. 5: 8am-6pm
Mar. 6-Apr. 16: 8am-7pm
Apr. 17-May 21: 8am-8pm
May 22-Aug. 27: 8am-9pm
Aug. 28-Sep. 24: 8am-8pm
Sep. 25-Oct. 29: 8am-7pm
Parking:
$5 per vehicle (when kiosk is attended); $4 per trailered vehicle. Buses: $25 per bus | Dogs: $2 per dog. No fee for guide/service dogs.
NO.8 Your Sweet Home
Don't forget that you still have a fantastic location option right at your own doorstep:
YOUR HOME.
