2026 San Mateo Mini Sessions – Travel Photo Sessions

I will be in the Bay Area on 1 weekend in September & then again in November! Yes, I will be back for Oahu photo sessions so do not worry! These annual sessions are done on just 1-2 weekends and typically I am away for 2-3 nights and then I am back!

This fall: Sept 20, sunset. BOOK NOW!

I am not sure if I will be back next year, so this might be the final session!

[BOOK YOUR SESSION →]

Why I love this spot

It is very private and you’re not fighting for a spot! They’re old and windswept and they filter light so beautifully! I can shoot here 3 hours before sunset and it will still be beautiful because of how the trees are laid out and the ocean reflects onto your faces so it is not dark – it is perfect, so you get shade and glow at the same time — the two things that rarely come together outdoors with a tree covered area.

It photographs like somewhere much further from the city than it is.

These photos below were done in 2025 on a cloudy day in mid-October. Still such a beautiful spot with clouds or sunshine!

And practically: real parking, restrooms, and a short walk from your car to where we shoot. If you’ve ever hauled three kids and a diaper bag down a trail for photos, you know why that matters. You can stroll your stroller on the walking path which is right next to the location.

What’s included

$699 · 15-20 minutes & all images included

Full gallery of color-edited images, yours to download
Immediate family (bigger group? Book two back-to-back slots or a full session and we’ll do it properly)
My styling guide with outfit ideas and links, sent to you once it is ready

What to wear

One soft palette, everyone within it — creams, sage, rust, olive- They read beautifully against the background.

Bring a layer just in case since it is directly next to the water

Flowing fabrics move nicely in the evening breeze.

Skip pure white fabrics with no texture, bright neons and big logos.

How it works

1. Book your slot — pick your time, done in two minutes.

2. Get your prep guide — exact meeting spot, parking, timing, outfit help.

3. Show up and play — I guide as much as you need and stay out of the way the rest of the time.

4. Gallery within 30 days for September sessions & within 2 weeks for November sessions

Questions I get

How many photos will we actually get? The full gallery

Will 15 minutes really be enough? Yes — especially with kids. Short sessions keep everyone in a good mood, and I shoot fast. Most families are surprised how much we get.

What if my toddler melts down? Then we photograph the melt-down and then the recovery, and you’ll like those frames more than you expect. Nobody has to perform.

Can grandparents come? Please book 2 minis. For a real multi-generation session with every combination, book a full session.

What if it rains? I watch the forecast and we’ll adjust or reschedule. September is usually more reliable than mid-October to November.

When are you back in the Bay Area? I am unsure of when I will be back!