Fall is in the air…which means that family photo season is right around the corner. I’m busy finalizing the details for my once-a-year mini sessions. Are you interested in grabbing a spot? Make sure you’re signed up to my VIP list so you’re the first to know when the dates are released. Click here to get on the list.
Planning your family session can be exciting, but also a bit stressful. A mini session is great, especially because the location is decided for you, but if you’re in the mood for a full family session – then the sky is the limit on where you decide to have your session.
For the first time ever, I’m sharing my top 10 favorite photo locations in Orange County. These are picked specifically for families because they are easy to get to, don’t require a lot of walking, beautiful year round, and vary in style and background.
The one thing all 10 locations have in common? They are all drop-dead-gorgeous and will provide a stunning backdrop for your adorable family.
The Best Family Photo Locations in Orange County
Jeffrey Open Space Trail
This area is always green, thanks to Irvine spending a bazillion dollars on landscaping annually. There are also a few tunnels and bridges that run through this trail which adds a nice variation to your photos without having to walk a long way.
Curtis Ranch Park
This location makes the top ten list for me mainly due to the cute little lemon grove surrounding a playground (bonus for some after session play). I especially love the ease of access from the parking lot. This makes Curtis Ranch Park a perfect spot for those with young kiddos.
The Mission San Juan Capistrano
It’s no secret that The Mission is STUNNING…but clients are sometimes bummed to find out they do require a permit. Good news is that the permit is very reasonably priced – so, if you really want beautiful architecture to flank your family – then you can’t go wrong with the Mission.
Riley Wilderness Park
Do you fancy rolling hills of golden dried grasses and hundreds-of-years-old oak trees? Well, then Riley Wilderness Park is the location for you! You really can’t go wrong with this spot, especially right around sunset.
Laguna Beach
My personal favorite beaches in the world happen to be right here in Laguna. With lots of rocky backgrounds and tide pools, your photos will have so much depth and variety if you choose Laguna Beach as your location.
Los Rios District
This cute street is perfectly positioned behind the San Juan Capistrano Train Station. It’s full of charm and chock full of opportunities for stunning photos.
Serrano Creek Trail
This eucalyptus grove is super dreamy, and you can easily plan a session here any time of day because the lighting is perfect all day. So, if you are worried about scheduling around nap time – Serrano Creek Trail is the location for you! Lastly, this spot has a great natural color palette that is saturated in neutral tones – so your cute family will really pop in the photos!
Old Town Orange
Not feeling the parks or historic architecture so much? Check out Old Town Orange with it’s fully exposed brick and industrial backdrops. It’s the perfect balance of modern meets classy.
Huntington Central Park
Do you have a large family? Or maybe you’re worried that there will be a lot of other families at the spot you chose, making your session feel awkward or rushed? Then Huntington Central Park is for you! It’s a huge park, so you won’t have to worry about running into other families. The backgrounds are also plentiful – from butterfly gardens to eucalyptus trees, and even some water.
Lido Marina Village
If you’re looking for a super modern location with tons of white – the Lido Marina Village could be your spot! This shopping area is right on the marina and I’ve found several little pockets with industrial elements and great lighting.
Are you feeling inspired to book your family session yet? I sure hope you are and I trust this list of the best family photo locations in Orange County has alleviated some of your stress. Take your time to review these ten locations in detail and then contact me to get your fall family session on the books.