Where we shoot

Four scenes, all in soft light

Each Mini Session date is set at one of these four Orange County spots, timed for the softest light of the afternoon. Pick a date and the scene comes with it.

Mother and toddler playing in the sand at golden hour Dad lifting his toddler into the air by the ocean

Salt Creek Beach

Dana Point

Soft sand, dramatic bluffs and wide-open ocean. We use the grassy headland up top and the shoreline below, so we get two looks in one session. The light here at sunset is hard to beat.

Best light · Late afternoon, year-round. Bring a light layer for the breeze.

Open in Maps33333 S Pacific Coast Hwy, Dana Point Photos and open dates at Salt Creek Beach →
Oak and sycamore trees at Irvine Regional Park, Orange, a Mini Session location Irvine Regional Park session photo

Irvine Regional Park

Orange

Grand old oaks, open lawns and a quiet lake, all in one place. It's our most kid-friendly spot, with a little train and roaming peacocks to keep the littlest ones smiling, and easy access for strollers and grandparents.

Best light · Late afternoon. Lovely any season.

Open in Maps1 Irvine Park Rd, Orange Photos and open dates at Irvine Regional Park →
Redwood Grove at Carbon Canyon Regional Park in Brea, a Mini Session location in Orange County Carbon Canyon Regional Park family session photo

Carbon Canyon Regional Park

Brea

A hidden stand of towering coastal redwoods tucked inside the park, the closest thing to a quiet northern forest we have down here. Cool, shaded and a little magical. Getting there is a short 15 minute light hike on a flat dirt trail, so this scene may not be the best fit for babies or very young toddlers. Plan to arrive 30 minutes before your session time to park and walk up.

Best light · Afternoon under the redwoods. The grove shades early, so the light stays soft and even. Bring a light layer and comfortable shoes.

Open in Maps4442 Carbon Canyon Rd, Brea (South Parking Lot) Photos and open dates at Carbon Canyon Regional Park →
Mother and baby on a blanket in a grassy meadow Mother holding her baby in a sunlit meadow

Thomas F. Riley Wilderness Park

Coto de Caza

Rolling meadows, tall grass and rustic ranch fencing, with a little creek running through. Come spring it fills with wildflowers and turns into one of the prettiest, most natural backdrops in the county.

Best light · Wildflowers peak Feb to May. Open meadows and old oaks the rest of the year.

Open in Maps30952 Oso Pkwy, Coto de Caza Photos and open dates at Thomas F. Riley Wilderness Park →

Ready when you are

Pick a date at one of these four scenes. Want your home or another spot? The Full Hour Session goes anywhere in OC.

Book a Mini Session