Bay Area Beach Guide
Beach sessions are all about capturing the magic of natural light at its best.
I schedule photoshoots to coincide with the most beautiful and flattering light of the day: the golden hour—the hour before sunset—and the blue hour—the 20 minutes just after the sun has set. These times offer a stunning range of warm, golden tones transitioning into soft, cool hues, ensuring diverse and enchanting photos. I
It’s essential to arrive on time to make the most of this limited window of light. Please allow extra time for parking and the walk to the beach, as some locations may involve unexpected delays or longer access paths. With a little preparation, we can create unforgettable images in these breathtaking settings.
Rodeo Beach
Rodeo Beach is the perfect backdrop for your next shoot. Its unique black sand, dramatic “Sea Lions” rock formations, and expansive shoreline offer endless possibilities for creative expression. For a truly unique perspective, climb the nearby hills for breathtaking panoramic views of the beach and the Pacific Ocean.
I also particularly love the part of the beach where a small lagoon is separated from the ocean by a narrow strip of sand. This spot is perfect for capturing stunning shots with water reflections.
• Accessibility: Close parking and easy access make it suitable for pregnant clients or those with limited mobility.
• Best For: Sunset shots, dramatic rock formations, and hidden coves.
*additional travel fee of 50$ is applied to this location
Baker Beach
Baker Beach combines stunning views of the Golden Gate Bridge with its rugged cliffs and smooth sandy shores. The beach offers a mix of dramatic and serene backdrops, perfect for capturing iconic Bay Area imagery. However, it’s important to note that Baker Beach is a popular destination and can often be quite crowded. To diversify your session, consider taking photos not only on the beach but also on the nearby hills, where the trees provide a more secluded and natural setting.
• Accessibility: Convenient parking and short walking distances make it ideal for pregnant clients or those with limited mobility.
• Best For: Golden Gate views, dramatic cliffside settings, and combining beach and hillside backdrops.
See Galleries:
1. Maternity 1
2. Maternity 2
3. Family
Ocean Beach
Ocean Beach is renowned for its expansive shoreline, soft light-colored sand, and iconic tall grasses. The grasses here create a unique aesthetic, making it ideal for intimate couple shoots, family portraits, or solo sessions. The open space and soft, natural lighting are especially flattering for golden hour photography.
• Accessibility: Suitable for pregnant clients due to ample nearby parking and easy access to the beach.
• Best For: Natural grass backdrops, expansive sandy shots, and serene golden hour sessions.
See Gallery:
Grey Whale Cove State Beach
Grey Whale Cove is a hidden treasure featuring dramatic cliffs and turquoise waters. Its more secluded nature makes it perfect for intimate and artistic photography sessions.
One of the highlights of this location is the beautiful high hills above the beach, which create a dark, dense backdrop that looks stunning in photos. If you’re lucky with low tide, you’ll also discover fascinating rock formations on the side of the beach that add unique texture and character to your shots.
However, reaching the beach requires descending a steep staircase, which takes about 15-20 minutes from the parking lot.
• Accessibility: Not ideal for pregnant clients due to the challenging access. Additionally, there is no cell service at the parking area, so plan accordingly.
• Best For: Secluded and artistic shots, vibrant turquoise waters, and dramatic cliffs.
See Galleries:
1. Maternity
Montara State Beach
Montara State Beach boasts dramatic coastal cliffs, golden sands, and a more tranquil atmosphere compared to other Bay Area beaches. This beach is perfect for clients seeking a peaceful and picturesque setting.
• Accessibility: Nearby parking and straightforward access make this beach particularly suitable for pregnant clients.
• Best For: Peaceful cliffside shots, wave dynamics, and intimate portraits.
• Seasonal Highlight: In July, you can expect beautiful flowers blooming on the hills above the beach, adding vibrant color to your photos.
See Galleries:
1. Maternity
2. Love Story
Poplar Beach
Poplar Beach offers a serene escape with its beautiful shoreline and tranquil atmosphere. Often less crowded than other beaches in the area, it’s perfect for capturing peaceful and intimate moments. The beach also features stunning hills above the shoreline, providing unique perspectives for your photos.
• Accessibility: Paid parking ($10) is available directly above the beach, making access convenient for most clients.
• Best For: Quiet beachscapes, hillside shots, and intimate portraits in a calm setting.
See Gallery:
Family
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