Family Photos Around Monterey, CA

(So I decided to write this article within an hour of taking family photos and didn’t even realize until the next day. Is this “mom brain”? Probably.)

If photos bring you joy, take advantage of your kids’ cuteness and the many local photographers to preserve memories in our beautiful home. It’s a truly spectacular area among the loveliest in the country. Please be sure to use a “Leave No Trace” mindset to keep it pristine for everyone.

“I feel beyond grateful to photograph families around the Monterey Peninsula. It is truly one-of-a-kind area—there is so much beauty and variety here. Garrapata Beach, Sobrennes Trail and Fort Ord Dunes are my favorites,” said experienced photographer Alexandra Podobnik of Alexandra Megan Photography.

 

Here are some ideas of worthwhile locations, no matter what backdrop you crave:

Around Town

-Your home or yard: Feel happiest right where you are? Simplify logistics and take advantage of your own space and things. Perhaps include favorite family items. Ideally spruce up a bit first—perhaps schedule for right after spring cleaning.

-Main Street, Salinas*: Cool storefronts and signage.

-Colton Hall Lawn, Monterey: Spacious grassy lawn in the middle of historic downtown.

-Portrait studio: Capture classic personality or heirloom-style portraits and newborns in a home studio with a clean backdrop such as offered locally by Love in Focus (https://loveinfocusphotos.com/).

-The neighborhood around Alta Bakery, Monterey*: Great architecture and flowers.

-Downtown Carmel*: Enjoy the storybook vibes.

-Behind the Custom House, Monterey*: Gorgeous flowers, Adobe character.

-(For military only) Hotel Del Monte, Monterey*: Steeped in history with great steps, fountains, rooftop and a rose garden.

-Cannery Row, Monterey*: It’s classic for a reason. Go early to try to miss crowds.

 

Greenery

-Jack’s Peak Park, Monterey*: Great views high above the peninsula. Prepare for a hike.

-Point Lobos State Natural Reserve, Carmel*: Enjoy this favorite area park’s wide variety of trails but avoid peak time by going on weekdays or near closing. Definitely comfortable shoes.

-Nisene Marks, Aptos*: Amazing for redwoods.

-Garland Ranch Regional Park, Carmel Valley*: There are plenty of trails, trees, and tall grass plus the Carmel hills in the background. Be careful to avoid poison oak.

-Check with local flower and veggie farms* in Salinas, Carmel and more based on your favorites.

 

Coastline

-Lover’s Point and the rec trail, Pacific Grove*: There are so many sweet spots along the trail. Consider avoiding peak commute/exercise times.

-Asilomar Beach, Pacific Grove*: It’s a classic for a reason.

-Ribera Beach, Carmel*: Striking rocks and trails.

-Garrapata State Park, Carmel*: Go especially when the winter/early spring lilies are out but be prepared for mud. We like to wear rain boots.

-Bixby Bridge pull-off, Carmel*: Bring along some extra patience for managing the parking situation here. (Be sure to check if the road is open before you set out as the Big Sur area can be precarious.)

-Fort Ord Dunes Park, Seaside*: Majestic sand dunes and good parking near the ocean.

*Please be mindful that permits are required for these locations.

 

Some tips to make the most of family photos:

-Consider nap times and schedules to aim for the smiliest times.

-Pack water, snacks, bottles and/or common kid requests.

-Consider diapers and/or potty breaks in your plan.

-Pre-apply sunscreen, as needed, taking care not to get on clothing.

-Aim for golden hour (one hour after sunrise or before sunset) in the morning or evening if you can.

-Take some toys along to encourage smiling.

-Pack several extra outfits, especially for littler ones.

-Perhaps pick a photographer who has children so you know that they’ll understand much of what you’re working with. Our favorite photographer helped us make many fart noises to make the baby smile with amazing results.