This year’s San Diego Fall mini sessions took place at two locations, Presidio Park and Coronado Beach. I share so many Coronado Beach photos, so this year I wanted to share some highlights from a new location – Presidio Park! These sessions were full of soft golden light, lush green trees, and so many genuine family moments. I loved watching kids explore, parents slow down, and families simply enjoy being together in such a beautiful setting. As a San Diego family photographer, Presidio Park is one of my favorite locations because it’s a hidden gem that not many other photographers use, making it the perfect backdrop for relaxed, connection-filled photos. I’m so grateful for all the families who trusted me with their memories this season!
Quick Tips for Planning Your Family Portrait Session:
1. Plan Your Session Around Light
Golden hour (1–2 hours before sunset) gives dreamy, flattering light — perfect for portraits
2. Prepare the Kids
Mentally prepping the kids beforehand can help them feel excited instead of nervous, and can make the session more enjoyable. Sometimes small bribes or rewards for good behavior can help, such as grabbing a treat on the way home.
3. Give Yourself Extra Time
Especially if you choose a popular location, make sure to give yourself some extra time for traveling and finding parking
4. What To Wear
Neutrals such as tan, cream, ivory, gray, and off-white are easiest on the eyes and blend well with any backdrop. Muted blues, greens, and pinks can also compliment a variety of skin tones. Avoid very bright colors and bold designs. Finally, make sure you all feel comfortable in your outfits – you should like how you look when you look in the mirror, and how the outfits make you feel
5. Be Natural!
Some of the most beautiful photos are the most natural ones – smiling at your spouse, playing with your kids – natural interactions carry the most emotion.
5. Trust Your Photographer
Let them guide you with posing, lighting, and timing — it’s what they do best!
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Jade Maria is a wedding and portrait photographer based in San Diego, California. With a fine art approach, her photography style is romantic, soft, and organic – influenced by the timeless aesthetics of film photography.
