Before moving to the Bay Area, I had always heard about how gorgeous the area is, but had never really experienced it for myself. Now that we live in Palo Alto, I am overwhelmed by the lush beauty of the entire Bay, especially the Peninsula. As a Palo Alto family photographer, I am even more amazed by the variety of gorgeous locations to use as backdrops for capturing the memories of my clients. Here are just a few!

Elizabeth F. Gamble Garden

Palo Alto


Embrace the enchanting beauty of Gamble Garden in Palo Alto. This historic garden sanctuary features lush greenery, blooming flowers, and serene pathways, providing a picturesque setting for family photos that capture the essence of natural tranquility and botanical splendor.

Hidden Villa

Los Altos Hills


Experience the rustic charm and natural beauty of Hidden Villa in Los Altos Hills. This working farm and environmental education center boasts picturesque pastures, shady groves, and scenic trails, providing a serene setting for family photos that capture the essence of rural tranquility and pastoral bliss.


Note: There is a permit fee to shoot here of $150. If you're interested in taking family photos at the Hidden Villa, get in touch!

www.hiddenvilla.org

Allied Arts Guild

Menlo Park


Step into a world of old-world charm and elegance at Allied Arts Guild in Menlo Park. This historic venue features lush gardens, colorful courtyards, and Spanish-style architecture, providing a romantic backdrop for family portraits that exude timeless sophistication and grace.


Note: There is a permit fee to shoot here of $200/hour, and it must be reserved far in advance. If you're interested in taking family photos at the Allied Arts Guild, get in touch!

https://alliedartsguild.org/about/

Palo Alto Baylands Nature Preserve


Nestled along the shores of the San Francisco Bay, Palo Alto Baylands Nature Preserve offers a breathtaking backdrop of marshes, wetlands, and scenic trails. Whether you're exploring the boardwalks, admiring the birdlife, or simply soaking in the natural beauty, this expansive preserve provides endless opportunities for stunning family photos against a backdrop of serene landscapes.

www.cityofpaloalto.org

Filoli Historic House and Garden

Woodside


Immerse yourself in the splendor of Filoli Historic House and Garden in nearby Woodside. With its sprawling estate, formal gardens, and grandiose architecture, Filoli offers a majestic backdrop for family portraits that exude elegance, opulence, and refined beauty.


Note: Filoli family photography requires an entrance fee.

Stanford University

Palo Alto


Explore the iconic campus of Stanford University in Palo Alto, where historic architecture, lush gardens, and sprawling lawns converge to create a setting of timeless beauty. Whether you're posing beneath the towering palm trees or strolling along the picturesque pathways, Stanford University provides a classic and elegant backdrop for family portraits that exude sophistication and charm.

www.cnn.com

Arizona Cactus Garden

Palo Alto


The Arizona Garden is a historical garden located on Stanford's campus. The garden, also known as the Cactus Garden, was designed for Jane and Leland Stanford by landscape architect Rudolf Ulrich between 1881 and 1883. This is a great place to take family photos in Palo Alto if you're looking for a unique backdrop!

https://aparkadaybayarea.com/the-arizona-cactus-garden-stanford-ca/