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A family of three walking on the beach holding hands with a toddler and a puppy

San Diego

San Diego Family photographer

How much does a family photoshoot cost in San Diego?
Family photography in San Diego typically ranges from $350–$1250, depending on session length, number of people, location, and the number of edited images included. Sunset beach sessions and extended family groups may fall on the higher end due to additional time and coordination. See what package works best for your budget here
Photography Packages and Pricing in San Diego.

What should we wear for family photos on the beach?
Soft neutrals, earth tones, light blues, and pastels photograph beautifully against San Diego’s coastal backdrop. Choose comfortable, breathable fabrics and coordinate your outfits without matching exactly. Avoid bold logos and bright neons to keep the focus on your connection.

When is the best time to take family photos in San Diego?
The best time for family photos is during sunset, when the coastal light becomes warm, soft, and flattering. This “golden hour” enhances skin tones, highlights movement, and creates a naturally glowing atmosphere—especially in La Jolla and other San Diego beaches.

Why Family Photography Matters

Family photography preserves the seasons of your life that pass quickly but matter the most. Whether you’re celebrating a milestone, traveling to San Diego for vacation, or simply wanting to capture your family exactly as they are today, your session becomes a meaningful chapter in your story.San Diego’s coastline offers the perfect blend of warmth and calm—a space where kids can play, parents can relax, and moments unfold naturally. My goal is to create images that feel authentic, connected, and elevated, so you can look back on them with joy for years to come.

Family Photography Services

Designed for families seeking natural, light-filled portraits that blend candid storytelling with gently guided posing.

Signature Family Session

A full-length experience designed to capture connection, personality, and the little moments that make your family unique. Ideal For: Families wanting a complete storytelling experience with plenty of variety.

Beach & Coastal Family Session
(La Jolla / San Diego)

Shot at golden hour along San Diego’s coastline, these sessions bring soft light, warm tones, and space for kids to explore. Ideal For: Families who love movement, playful moments, and beach adventures.

Extended Family Session

Perfect for family gatherings, reunions, and multi-generation vacations in La Jolla or San Diego. I create a balanced mix of groupings, candids, and individual families.

Family Vacation Photography (La Jolla & San Diego Visitors)

For families traveling to San Diego, this experience documents your trip with natural, light-filled portraits that reflect both scenery and connection.

Seasonal Mini Sessions

Short, sweet, and ideal for updating family photos with a curated set of images.

What to Expect During Your Family Session

Gentle, Guided Posing

I offer thoughtful direction that feels relaxed and natural—helping you look your best while still leaving space for candid connection.

Candid, Playful Moments

Movement prompts encourage genuine smiles, laughter, and interaction. Kids are free to be themselves, and those honest moments often become the most meaningful images.

Working With Kids of All Ages

With over 15 years of experience, I know how to engage little ones, help them feel at ease, and create a fun, low-pressure environment that parents appreciate.

The Best Family Photography Locations in San Diego

San Diego’s landscapes offer warm light, open spaces, and beautiful natural tones—perfect for family portraits.

  • La Jolla Shores: Wide beaches, calm water, and plenty of space for kids to run and play.
  • Scripps Pier: Iconic architecture and mirrored sand that creates soft, glowing images.
  • Torrey Pines: Golden cliffs, trails, and warm evening light.
  • Coronado Beach: Bright, airy tones and wide-open sand.
  • Balboa Park: A beautiful alternative for families who prefer greenery, architecture, and shaded paths.
  • Windansea Beach: Textured rocks and waves for families who love a more dramatic, coastal look.

What to Wear for Your Family Photos

  • Colors That Photograph Best: Soft neutrals, light blues, earth tones, and gentle pastels blend beautifully with San Diego’s natural scenery.
  • Coordinated, Not Matching: Choose complementary colors and textures to create cohesion without looking overly styled.
  • Comfortable Clothing for Kids: Breathable fabrics, flexible outfits, and shoes that allow movement keep kids happy and relaxed.
  • Movement-Friendly Options: Flowy dresses, linen pieces, and soft layers enhance movement and look beautiful on camera.

Free What to Wear Guide for Your
Next Family Photoshoot

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How to Prepare for Your Family Session

The Week Before

  • Confirm outfits
  • Prep kids with simple expectations (“We’re going to play at the beach!”)
  • Plan plenty of time for parking and walking to the shoreline

The Day Of

  • Keep the atmosphere low-pressure
  • Bring water, snacks, wipes, and backup clothes for little ones
  • Embrace the natural chaos—playfulness photographs beautifully

What to Bring

  • Towels
  • Easy-to-slip-off shoes
  • Hair ties for windy days
  • A small blanket if doing sitting poses

My Editing Style and Signature Aesthetic

My work blends soft natural light, warm tones, and gentle retouching to create images that feel organic, timeless, and true to your family’s personality. Your gallery will be cohesive, polished, and designed to become part of your long-term family legacy.


A family photo session on the beach with a toddler and a puppy

San Diego Family Photographer

Why Choose Me as Your San Diego Family Photographer

  • Expert retouching that enhances your photos while keeping them natural
  • 12+ years of experience photographing babies, kids, and families
  • Warm, personable approach that helps you feel at ease on camera
  • Beautiful, easy-to-use online gallery with 60–100+ images to choose from
  • Fast turnaround time—your gallery delivered within 2 weeks

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a family of 6 being photographed at La Jolla Shoresa family of 6 being photographed at La Jolla Shores

Frequently Asked Questions

When is the best time of day for family photos?
Sunset is the most popular time for family photos in San Diego because the coastal light is soft, warm, and flattering—perfect for creating glowing, natural portraits. However, for families with early-rising kids or little ones who do best earlier in the day, morning sessions can be a wonderful option. Morning light is gentle, bright, and clean, and beaches are often quieter, giving families more space to play and relax.

Can grandparents or extended family join?
Yes—extended family sessions are available and include multiple groupings.

What if my kids don’t cooperate?
Kids are naturally playful, curious, and energetic. I work with their personalities, not against them.

Do we need to know how to pose?
Not at all. I guide everything from start to finish.

What if the weather changes?
We reschedule to ensure a comfortable and beautiful experience.

a family of 4 being photographed at La Jolla Shoresa family of 4 being photographed at La Jolla Shoresa family of 4 being photographed at La Jolla Shores

Daniela Larsen - San Diego Family Photographer

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Memories

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