Favorite spots to consider for your Los Angeles photo session

Finding the ideal location is just as crucial as choosing the right photographer, especially when you’re traveling to a new city and aren’t sure of all the in’s and out’s of where is best. In LA, it can be tricky – navigating permitting requirements, dealing with crowds, managing visual clutter, and ensuring there’s ample space for your kids to run around. How do you find a place with beautiful lighting, minimal red tape, a style that fits your vision, convenience, and a playful atmosphere to capture your travels?!

I’ve got you covered. Here are some of our favorite locations for your Los Angeles session. If you have a specific spot in mind or want to explore other locations that may require a fee (that’s a whole other list), let’s chat! While there are plenty more out there, these locations stand out as the best for capturing families of all ages.

Beaches & Coastal Areas

1. Malibu beaches — El Matador (dramatic rocks), Point Dume (cliffs + golden grass), and Zuma (wide, open sand)
2. Manhattan Beach — charming pier (more open and airy than Santa Monica)
3. Santa Monica beaches — beautiful open shoreline, golden light, and ocean views without the chaos of the pier.
4. Will Rogers State Beach — spacious, laid-back vibe
5. Leo Carrillo State Beach — tide pools, caves, and a more rugged feel
6. El Porto — more local surf vibes, fun for active/lifestyle shots

Iconic City Views & Landmarks

1. Griffith Observatory — classic city and Hollywood sign views (early morning or weekdays to avoid crowds)
2. Griffith Park — sprawling parkland with trails, oak trees, and multiple scenic overlooks; perfect for those who want nature
3. Elysian Park trails — peaceful trails, tall eucalyptus trees, and one of the best secret views of the LA skyline
4. Mulholland Drive overlooks — sweeping cityscape shots
5. Hollywood Hills hidden trails — city views, wildflowers, and a more secluded feel
6. Downtown LA rooftop views — urban skyline backdrops

Nature & Garden Vibes

1. Huntington Library & Gardens — a beautiful mix of themed gardens (Japanese, desert, rose), architectural features
2. Arlington Garden in Pasadena — a charming, lesser-known garden with a relaxed, boho feel
3. LA Arboretum — diverse plants, open spaces, and peacocks wandering around

Urban, Artsy, & Architectural Spots

1. Arts District murals — colorful walls, textures, and creative energy
2. Walt Disney Concert Hall — sleek modern metallic architecture
3. Broad Museum exterior & plaza — geometric, minimal, great for modern portraits
4. Downtown LA Historic Core — old theaters, vintage vibes, hidden alleys
5. Venice Canals — romantic, quaint bridges and water reflections

Classic & Luxurious LA

1. Beverly Hills streets & Rodeo Drive — classic palm-lined streets, high-end shopping scene
2. Greystone Mansion & Gardens — old-Hollywood elegance, manicured gardens
3. Hotel exteriors and interiors — lush gardens, pink walls, classic LA charm
4. Santa Monica Palisades Park — cliffside walking paths with palm trees and sweeping ocean views

Unique, Off-the-Beaten-Path

1. Topanga Canyon — boho, rustic, dreamy nature vibes
2. Point Vicente in Palos Verdes — lighthouse, cliffs, coastal trails
3. Palos Verdes Bluff Trails (near Abalone Cove & Terranea) — dramatic cliffside trails with ocean panoramas, crashing waves below, and golden-hour magic

🚫 Areas to avoid (or approach with caution)

1. Santa Monica Pier — beautiful but extremely crowded most of the day; early mornings work best if you really want it
2. Hollywood Walk of Fame & Main Tourist Hollywood Blvd — chaotic, cluttered, and not ideal for clean, timeless images
3. Venice Boardwalk (midday) — heavy foot traffic, distractions, and can feel overwhelming
4. Runyon Canyon on weekends — super busy, limited privacy for photos
5. Griffith Observatory at sunset or weekends — gorgeous but extremely packed
6. LACMA Urban Light installation during peak hours — very popular, can be crowded (go early morning or weekday mornings)
7. Echo Park — hard to find space, parking challenges, and lots of foot traffic

💡 Pro tip

When planning your travel photoshoot in LA, always consider:

1. Time of day: Early mornings (sunrise or shortly after) are your best friend for soft light and empty spots.
2. Day of the week: Weekdays are generally quieter than weekends.
3. Season: Spring and fall have beautiful light and less intense heat.

Ready to make your LA trip unforgettable with stunning photos? I’d love to show you these hidden gems and iconic spots through my lens — and help you take home more than just phone snapshots. Let’s create art together and make this city part of your story!

Get our full list of all of our favorite locations for your private session!