10 BEST PLACES FOR A FAMILY PHOTOSHOOT IN SAN DIEGO

PERSONAL MEMORIES, FRIENDLY VIBES, AND GENUINE ADVICE FROM ELLEN MANILOVA

Whenever someone asks me about the best places in San Diego for a family photoshoot, my mind races through so many gorgeous options. This city truly offers something for everyone! In this post, I’m sharing my top picks (plus a few insider tips) along with personal stories and friendly advice. Imagine we’re sitting down for coffee, and I’m spilling all my favorite secrets about these spots!

SOLANA BEACH

Why I love it: Every time I’m at Solana Beach, it feels like a movie scene: the sand is pristine, the ocean views are wide open, and you can usually find a quieter corner away from the crowds. That’s huge for family shoots, especially if you want everyone to feel relaxed and natural.

What’s special here:

• Soft sand that’s comfortable for standing, sitting, or playing (kids go wild over this!).

• A laid-back vibe that lets you “melt” into the surroundings and truly enjoy the moment.

Friendly tip:

• Bring a light jacket or blanket, especially if you’ll be shooting close to sunset. Coastal breezes can pick up suddenly.

• Parking: There are some free spots, but a few streets around here may have time limits. Arrive early and double-check signs.

For a few simple tips and color-coordination ideas, check out my post on What to Wear for Your Family Photoshoot

DEL MAR BEACH

Why I love it: Del Mar isn’t just a beach; it’s a vibrant coastal neighborhood. I’m always drawn to its unique charm, the little park nearby, and the fun cafés and restaurants. It’s easy to switch between the beach for photos and the bustling streets for a completely different vibe.

Memorable moment: One of my favorite experiences was photographing a toddler who was having a tough time. Suddenly, a group of friendly dogs bounded over (Del Mar is big on dog-walking), and the kid instantly lit up! We ended up with some of the most genuine, joyful photos.

Friendly tip:

• Pack snacks or water for both kids and grown-ups. Moving between the park and the beach can be tiring, and a quick break can save the day.

• Parking can be competitive, especially on weekends. If you arrive early, you’ll likely find a spot closer to the water.

CORONADO

Why I love it: Coronado feels like its own little world. The sandy dunes here look like they were made for photoshoots — they add a dash of “wild nature” even though you’re still in the city.

Personal touch: I once met a family who traveled all the way to San Diego specifically to recreate a photo taken on Coronado 15 years ago. Can you imagine how special that is, capturing the same pose in the exact same spot, but with 15 years of life in between? That kind of memory truly gives me goosebumps.

Why it’s so convenient:

• If you’ve got family members who aren’t super into long photo sessions (often dads and little kids), Coronado is perfect because you can blend the shoot into a fun tourist day: explore the area, grab some ice cream, then snap a few shots in between.

• My own “free-form” shooting style — no strict rules, just genuine interactions — works like a charm here. You can run in the sand, play, or even rent bikes for fun action shots along the beachfront.

BALBOA PARK

Why I love it: Balboa Park is a photographer’s dream. Think manicured gardens, grand architecture, fountains, and Spanish Colonial Revival-style buildings — it’s like stepping into a postcard. Early mornings (before 10 AM) are ideal, since it’s less crowded and the sunlight is gentle.

Unique charm:

• Great for “day-in-the-life” style sessions: kids can ride the carousel, parents can admire the fountain,on weekends, you might stumble upon free events or local art shows — a perfect backdrop for unique shots.

Friendly tip:

• Wear comfy shoes. Balboa Park is huge, and you’ll probably want to explore several areas for variety.

• Parking can get busy on weekends; try the large free lots near the zoo entrance or the south side of the park, and plan to walk a bit.

T0RREY PINES

Why I love it: Torrey Pines is all about epic vistas. The trails wind down from the cliffs to the ocean, giving you incredible panoramic views of the Pacific. At sunset, it’s truly magical — the kind of place where time seems to stand still.

Lighting notes:

• Evening light here is especially dreamy, wrapping you and the surrounding cliffs in a golden glow. But remember, the sun sets quickly along the coast, so timing is everything.

• Plan for the hike time to and from the trails, especially if younger kids are tagging along. Sturdy shoes and plenty of water are a must.

LA JOLLA SHORES

Why I love it: La Jolla Shores is renowned for its mellow waves and family-friendly beach. If you have small children who want to dip their toes in the water, this spot feels safer and often a bit warmer (at least it seems that way!).

Fun detail:

• Keep an eye out for sea lions and seals that love to lounge around here. If you’re lucky, they’ll pop into the background of a shot, adding a memorable San Diego touch.

SUNSET CLIFFS

Why I love it: The name says it all: “Sunset Cliffs” is the perfect place for a dramatic ocean backdrop, high cliffs, and that fiery sunset that sets the sky ablaze. It’s a bit more rugged and raw — perfect for families who want something more adventurous.

What makes it unique:

• The resulting photos are powerful, with crashing waves and the bold outlines of the cliffs.

• Great for those who don’t mind a bit of a climb or some ocean spray!

Friendly tip:

• Watch your step on the cliffs; it can be slippery, especially after rain or high tide.

• If you’re bringing kids, consider something fun (like bubble wands or small toys) to keep them entertained while you scout for that perfect angle.

OLD TOWN SAN DIEGO

Why I love it: Old Town feels like a journey back in time. With its rich history, Spanish-style architecture, and festive local eateries, you’ll have plenty of vibrant details in every shot. The shops, colorful signs, and live music make for an awesome cultural twist on your family portraits.

Friendly tip:

• Try visiting on a weekday to avoid big tourist crowds.

• Adding a few themed props (like a vintage-style hat or a colorful shawl) can really complement the Old Town aesthetic.

MISSION BAY

Why I love it: Mission Bay combines sandy beachfront and grassy picnic areas, making it perfect for families who enjoy both. There’s also plenty of room for kids to run around, so you can capture those playful, in-the-moment shots.

Photography note:

• This area can get busy on weekends, so aim for early morning to find quieter spots.

• You’ll often see boats and kayaks on the water, giving your pictures a classic San Diego waterfront vibe.

SEAPORT VILLAGE

Why I love it: For those who want more of an urban waterfront feel, Seaport Village offers a charming collection of boutiques, restaurants, and scenic harbor views. The old carousel is a hit with kids — you can get some cute candids while they ride.

Friendly tip:

• Late afternoon or evening is ideal if you want those twinkling lights and a lively atmosphere.

• Parking options include a paid lot and metered street parking, so check signs carefully to avoid a ticket.

• You can wrap up the day with a sunset meal overlooking the harbor — a sweet way to cap off the session.

BEST TIME FOR A FAMILY PHOTOSHOOT IN SAN DIEGO

• Near the ocean: The golden hour (roughly an hour before sunset) produces a magical glow. Come a bit earlier so kids can warm up to the camera, and you can grab some candid pre-sunset shots.

• Parks or greenery: Mornings before 10 AM are perfect — softer light, fewer people, and no harsh midday shadows.

WHAT TO WEAR

• Coordinate outfits in a complementary color scheme. No need to be identical, but staying within a cohesive palette keeps your photos looking polished.

• For beach sessions, light or neutral tones (beige, soft blues, pastel pinks) blend well with the sand and waves.

• For park or city settings, feel free to mix in bolder tones, but still aim for an overall harmony.

Final Thoughts: Above all, remember that the true magic of a family photoshoot is about capturing love and connection. Let yourselves be a little silly — run around, laugh, and share genuine moments. Years from now, you’ll look at these photos and feel that warm, familiar embrace of these memories.

I hope this little insider’s guide helps you pick the perfect spot in San Diego for your next family shoot. If you have any questions or want more personal tips, just reach out! I’m always here, eager to share a funny story or a friendly piece of advice. Wishing you a fantastic photo adventure and lots of laughter along the way!

Ready to turn inspiration into reality? 

Let’s plan your perfect family photoshoot together. Whether it’s one of these favorite spots or a hidden gem, I’m here to help you capture moments you’ll treasure for years to come. Reach out anytime via  Instagram or email me directly at manilova.art@gmail.com, and let’s make it happen!