As a Culver City family photographer, the question I hear most is “where should we actually take our photos?” Los Angeles gets a bad reputation for scenery because we skip the dramatic fall leaves that the East Coast is known for. The truth is the Westside is full of gorgeous backdrops that photograph beautifully all year, from ocean bluffs to garden pathways to green city parks minutes from home. I grew up here and I have photographed families in every corner of it, so here are the spots I recommend and how to pick the right one for your crew.
Where Are the Best Places for Family Photos on the Westside of LA?
The best Westside family photo spots include Baldwin Hills Scenic Overlook and Kenneth Hahn Park in Culver City, the gardens and greenery near UCLA, the beaches of Santa Monica and Palos Verdes, and the playful parks of Griffith Park. Your ideal location depends on your family’s style, the season, and how far you want to travel.
Let me break them down by area so you can find the one closest to you.
What Are the Best Family Photo Spots in Culver City?
Culver City is home base for me, and two local spots consistently deliver. Both offer big, open scenery with easy access, which makes them wonderful for families who want a beautiful backdrop without a long drive across town.
And just a heads-up: If you are bringing toddlers to either of these, my post on stress-free family photos with toddlers has my go-to tricks for keeping the little ones happy while we shoot.
- Baldwin Hills Scenic Overlook: For families who want a view, the overlook gives you a dramatic landscape with panoramic city vistas and rustic foliage along the trails. It is a stunning spot for golden-hour light.
- Kenneth Hahn State Recreation Area: A longtime favorite, with pretty bridges, ponds, and plenty of scenic corners that work as a backdrop for any family. There is room for little ones to roam between shots.
Where Can I Take Family Photos Near Westwood and the Westside?
The greater Westside gives you lush gardens, classic architecture, and hidden natural pockets. These spots range from manicured and elegant to wild and green, so there is something for every family’s taste within a short drive.
- Rancho Park, Cheviot Hills: One corner of this park has the most beautiful light and gorgeous mature trees, plus very easy parking. It is a single-backdrop spot, and honestly one great setting is plenty here.
- UCLA Mathias Botanical Garden, Westwood: A hidden gem with a lush, green environment, winding pathways, and lovely plant variety. We need to arrange permission in advance, so give me at least a few days of lead time.
- UCLA Campus, Westwood: The brick architecture and beautiful landscaping make this a gorgeous choice for a more urban family look. There are so many spots on campus to work with.
- Franklin Canyon Park, Beverly Hills: A nature lover’s paradise with lakes, trails, and a gorgeous natural setting. This is also your best bet for a bit of fall foliage. Note there is a permit fee here and it needs lead time to arrange.
Bluff Creek Park, Playa Vista: The trails along the hill leading up to the LMU campus have a beautiful, rustic appeal. We need permission to shoot here, which usually takes a few days.
What Are the Best Beach Spots for Family Photos on the Westside?
The Westside coastline gives you that timeless Southern California feel: golden sand, ocean waves, and soft light. Beach sessions are relaxed and playful, which makes them a natural fit for families who want an easygoing vibe and room for the kids to be themselves.
- Venice Canals and Beach, Venice: For a mix of beach and quirky urban charm, we start with a stroll around the canals and continue to the beach for sunset. It involves a good amount of walking, and it is a great walk.
- Santa Monica Beach at the Annenberg Community Beach House: Ideal for a relaxed, beachy family vibe. Golden sand, ocean waves, and mountain views make a timeless backdrop, and the parking is easy.
Where Are Good Family Photo Locations in Palos Verdes?
Palos Verdes is worth the drive when you want rugged coastline and Mediterranean elegance. The peninsula offers dramatic cliffs, tide pools, and beautiful architecture, making it perfect for families who want something a little grander or more adventurous.
- Malaga Cove Beach, Palos Verdes: A rustic path leads to a beach with rocky outcrops and tide pools for a more rugged coastal feel. The walk down is easy, though the climb back up is steep.
- Malaga Cove Plaza, Palos Verdes: Stunning Mediterranean-style architecture and beautiful views make this perfect for a more formal or elegant family shoot.
- Abalone Cove, Palos Verdes: A beach with dramatic cliffs and tide pools for adventurous families who want something different. It does involve a hike down to the water and back up.
South Coast Botanic Garden, Palos Verdes: A sprawling garden with a wonderful range of plants and landscapes. There is a permit fee plus ticket costs here.
Are There Fun Family Photo Spots for Young Kids?
Yes, a couple of Griffith Park area spots double as an adventure for little ones, which keeps them engaged and smiling. When kids are genuinely having fun at a location, their real personalities shine, and those are always the photos you will treasure most.
Travel Town, Griffith Park: If you have a little one who loves things that go, this outdoor museum of vintage trains is an instant favorite. It doubles the fun of the session.
Fern Dell, Griffith Park: A shaded, tranquil spot with winding trails and lots of greenery for a relaxed, nature-focused shoot. The uphill trail and view toward the Griffith Observatory is a big plus!
How Do I Choose the Right Location for My Family’s Vibe?
Choose your location by matching the setting to your family’s personality and the look you want. A relaxed family loves a beach or park, an adventurous one thrives on trails, and a polished look suits gardens or architecture. Your photos should feel like you, so start with your vibe.
Here is a quick way to think about it:
- Park settings: Natural and relaxed with lots of greenery. Great for families who want an easygoing feel.
- Trails: Rugged and nature-filled. Perfect for adventurous families who love the outdoors.
- Gardens: Refined and elegant with beautiful, manicured greenery.
- Beach: Laid-back and classic Southern California.
- Urban settings: Modern and dynamic, with architectural interest for families who love city life.
Once you have a feel for your style, my post on what to wear to your Los Angeles family photoshoot will help you pull outfits that match your chosen backdrop.
When Should I Book My Family Photo Session?
Book as early as you can, ideally a couple of months ahead. Early booking gives you first pick of the best locations before they fill up, and it keeps you ahead of holiday card deadlines. If cards are a priority, choose a date before Thanksgiving so I have time to edit and deliver your images.
Weekend sessions tend to fill up fastest, so if your schedule is flexible, weekdays are often better since the locations are less crowded. Booking early also means we can arrange any location permits with plenty of time to spare, which keeps your session relaxed and stress-free from the start.
Frequently Asked Questions
How do I find a good family photographer in Culver City?
Look for a local photographer who knows the area, has strong reviews, and shows consistent work with families. As a Culver City based photographer, I was named the 2025 Best Family Photographer in Culver City by the Quality Business Awards, a recognition given to the top 1% of businesses.
Do you travel for family sessions across the Westside?
Yes. While I am based in Culver City, I regularly photograph families throughout the Westside and greater Los Angeles, including Santa Monica, Westwood, Playa Vista, Beverly Hills, and Palos Verdes. I help you choose the location that fits your family best.
Do these family photo locations require a permit?
Some do. Spots like Franklin Canyon, the UCLA Botanical Garden, Bluff Creek Park, and South Coast Botanic Garden require advance permission or a permit fee. I handle the details, and booking early gives us time to arrange everything smoothly.
What is the best time of day for family photos?
Early morning and the hour before sunset give you the softest, most flattering light. These golden-hour windows are ideal for family sessions, especially at open locations like Baldwin Hills Scenic Overlook or any of the Westside beaches.
How far in advance should I book?
A couple of months ahead is ideal, and earlier is better during the fall holiday-card season. Early booking secures your preferred date, location, and any permits we need.
Ready to Plan Your Family Session?
Wherever you picture your family, from a Culver City overlook to a Palos Verdes bluff, I would love to help you choose the perfect spot and capture this stage of your family’s life. I take care of the locations, the permits, and the posing, so you can simply show up and enjoy your family.
Reach out here and let’s find your perfect backdrop.
