Best Outdoor Family Portrait Locations In Orange County (Complete Guide)

Updated October 2025

Top Outdoor Family Portrait Locations In Orange County

I'm guessing you found this page because you are considering getting family portraits. I am excited to share my favorite  outdoor family portrait locations in Orange County with you. I have gathered useful ideas and important details from photographing families in Orange County for the past 20 years. Some of my favorite parks are right here in Huntington Beach and Irvine. Additionally, if you live in Orange County or are just visiting you are in luck since we have the best coastline and beaches in California.

As a lifelong surfer and OC native, I have discovered some of the best-hidden gems within our local parks and along the coast for family photos. Families are always pleasantly surprised when they show up for their photo session and I take them right to the perfect spot. 

So whether you have just started your journey, are in the beginning stages of planning family portraits, or it's just an idea that you would like to look into further.

I hope this guide helps you choose the best location for your family without the headache. Learn more about Christopher Todd Studios' family photography today.

We have given each location our very own rating on a scale of 1-10. This is based on ease of accessibility, background, bathroom options, whether a permit is needed and overall portrait friendly location for unforgettable family photos. Be sure to see how each location is ranked.

Quick Answer:

In this guide, I break down important details of each location. These are all local places where I photograph families, couples, and individuals for their portrait sessions year-round.

As you scroll through this page, there are a few things to keep in mind:

• Your family's style
• Best time of year/day for photos
• Traffic/Crowds at the location
• Permit fees

1. Huntington Central Park, Huntington Beach ⭐ Overall 9.6

Location: Huntington Beach near the 405 freeway.

Here you will find over 350 acres of land. The peaceful setting of open grass fields and extensive tree and flower plantings is used for various activities such as picnics, biking, playing, and walking along paved paths. There is a secret garden and a large pond both great for portrait backdrops.

This park is serene, beautiful, and perfect for portraits. Read More about Huntington Central Park

What we love: This park is one fo the best Huntington Beach photo spots around. The open space, nature, lighting, and accessibility. Within the park, there are many hidden gems that I will take you to. This location is perfect for any size group. 
Address: 7111 Talbert Ave. Huntington Beach, CA 92648

Best time of day to shoot: Mornings and late afternoon before sunset. This location is great all year round.

Permits and Fees: None

Parking: Easy. Free onsite parking lot.

Restrooms: Yes

Traffic/Crowds: Low. Plenty of space to avoid people in the background. Weekends tend to be busier than midweek.

2. Seal Beach Pier & Main Street ⭐ 8.8

Location: Between Long Beach and Huntington Beach

Seal Beach is Orange County's most northern beach. What we love: This is my favorite iconic pier to take families to. It is one of the longest wooden piers around, perfect for photos. The sunsets are beautiful. We love taking beach family photos at this location. 

Address: 900 Ocean Ave, Seal Beach, CA 90740

Best time of day to shoot: Late afternoon before sunset. This location is great all year round. Fall and winter are my favorite times here in my opinion this is when you get the best sunsets. 

Permits and Fees: None

Parking: Paid parking lot by the pier. Limited free street parking.

Restrooms: Yes

Traffic/Crowds: Medium. Weekends tend to be busier than midweek. Summer has an influx of tourists.

Insider Tip: This quaint beach town has all the right vibes. We start sessions off by strolling down Main St. as we walk toward the municipal pier. Plenty of great backdrops for your portrait session. While these are 2 locations, they can easily be combined in the same session, or simply choose the pier or Main St. if you prefer. Get more details about Seal Beach family portraits.
Families love the relaxed small-town energy and convenient nearby parking. It’s perfect for blending beach and urban textures in one session.

Have A Specific Question?

Just click below to schedule a quick chat

3. Newport Beach Pier, Newport Beach ⭐ 8.9

Location: Balboa Penninsula, Newport Beach,

This is a popular beach town amongst locals and tourists. The municipal wooden pier is one of two piers in Newport Beach. This is a great spot for your family portraits. See more photos from a Newport Beach Pier family session.

What we love: The wooden pillars are perfect for a background. Sunsets are a beautiful time for portraits. See more outdoor family photo ideas here. 

Address: 70 Newport Pier, Newport Beach, CA 92663

Best time of day to shoot: Late afternoon before sunset. This location is great for your Newport Beach photo spots in the Fall and Winter.

Permits and Fees: None

Parking: Paid metered street parking. There is a large paid parking lot near the pier. To save time download the Parkmobile app making it easy to pay for parking. You can also pay at the parking kiosk with a credit card. 

Restrooms: Yes

Traffic/Crowds: High traffic. Summer is the peak season. Very crowded with locals and tourists. Could impact your photos with people in the background.

Insider Tip: Classic surf-city vibes, perfect sunsets, and sandy wide beaches define this iconic Orange County photo spot. Great for large families or playful portraits with kids. The pier provides shade and texture variety, while the backdrop screams “California.”

4. Irvine Regional Park, Orange, CA ⭐ 9.0

Location: Orange, CA

Rolling foothills, Oak, and Sycamore trees surround this park. Creating a variety of natural scenery and wildlife. There is plenty of shade and open space to create a full portrait session. In addition, there is a creek and a pond inside the park. This leisure park is serene and beautiful. Learn more about family portraits at Irvine Regional Park.

What we love: The leaves turn golden yellow in the fall. Plenty of nature and natural backgrounds. Outdoor photoshoot ideas here include: fall leaves, walking around the lake, and using natural foliage in the backdrop. I like to meet families in a designated parking lot. They are numbered so this makes it easy to connect. I will lead you through an easy section of the park on a small loop targeting all the best spots for your photos. 

Address: 1 Irvine Park Rd, Orange, CA 92869

Best time of day to shoot: Mornings and early afternoon. This location is great all year round.

Permits and Fees: None

Parking: Paid parking lot on site. Parking fees: $3 per vehicle entry Monday - Friday; $5 Saturday - Sunday; Higher for some holidays and events.

Restrooms: Yes

Traffic/Crowds: Low. Plenty of space to avoid people in the background. Weekends tend to be busier than midweek.

Insider Tip: A classic choice for family portraits—wide fields, oak groves, bridges, and a charming train for kids. Parking and restrooms are plentiful, and no permit is needed for small sessions. The golden light filtering through trees gives portraits a warm, natural feel.

Ready to Start Planning Your Family Session

Just click below to schedule a quick chat

5. Shaws Cove, Laguna Beach ⭐ 8.8

Location: Shaws Cove

This Laguna Beach cove is tucked away off PCH. To get here you have to go through a small neighborhood. Shaws Cove is the perfect hidden spot that only locals know about. Crystal blue waters, beautiful cliffs, and tide pools make this an ideal portrait location. Get more details about photo sessions at Laguna Beach.

What we love: This is one of the best photo spots in Orange County for beach family pictures. It is beautiful and the bluffs in the background make Laguna Beach unique. The sunsets here are stunning. Laguna Beach photo spots here are unforgettable. 

Address: Just off PCH in Laguna Beach

Best time of day to shoot: Early afternoon based on the tidal chart. This location is best in the Fall and Winter. Spring and early summer can be overcast and have a heavy marine layer. Before each photoshoot here I check the tidal chart and plan accordingly. 

Permits and Fees: Yes you need a Laguna Beach photography permit. The cost is $100. This permit covers up to 2 hours of photography. We can help you arrange a permit with the city.

Parking: Paid metered street parking. Some free street parking in the nearby neighborhood. Be sure to leave yourself plenty of time to find parking, especially if you are going for the golden hour during sunset. 

Restrooms: No

Traffic/Crowds: High traffic. Summer is the peak season. Very crowded with locals and tourists. Could impact your photos with people in the background. Other Laguna Beach photoshoot locations to consider are Heisler Park, Treasure Island, or Main Beach. 

Insider Tip: A photographer favorite for intimate family sessions, with tidepools and soft sand. Permit needed, but low crowds and stunning light make it a go-to for elegant coastal portraits.

Ready to Start Planning Your Family Session

Just click below to schedule a quick chat

6. Noguchi Garden, Costa Mesa ⭐ 8.6

Location: Costa Mesa, California just off the 405 freeway

One of the most unique places to take pictures in Orange County is Noguchi Garden in Costa Mesa, California. This outdoor urban garden is 1.6 acres of open space surrounded by office buildings and tall corporate buildings. Here you will find lush foliage, tranquil pathways, and peaceful courtyards. Just a short walk to Southcoast Plaza and fine dining. 

What we love: The modern outdoor sculpture garden has a variety of backgrounds. A perfect location to create unique portraits of your family. The lighting here is great. One of the most unique photoshoot locations in the heart of Orange County. 

Address: 611 Anton Blvd, Costa Mesa, CA 92626

Best time of day to shoot: Early in the morning or late afternoon. All-year-round.

Permits and Fees: None

Parking: Easy. 2 paid parking structures. 

Restrooms: No

Traffic/Crowds: Medium. Because this is an outdoor space with office buildings there is some foot traffic midweek. The best time would be Sunday morning.

Insider Tip: An architectural gem with clean lines, stone textures, and artistic shapes. Noguchi Gardens is ideal for families who prefer a modern, minimalist look. Easy access and central location make it convenient, though you do have to pay for parking.

7. The LAB Anti-Mall Costa Mesa ⭐ 8.4

Location: Costa Mesa

This modern airy outdoor mall known as the Anti-mall is a unique colorful place. Lots of modern nooks and crannies here.

What we love: The unique vibe and colorful backgrounds. This is a fun location for families, or individuals looking for portraits that are not at the beach or park. For fun places to take pictures Orange County is considered to have the best choices. 

Address:  2930 Bristol St, Costa Mesa, CA 92626

Best time of day to shoot: Early in the morning or late afternoon. All-year-round.

Permits and Fees: Yes.

Parking: Free & valet parking. Parking lot and street parking are available.

Restrooms: Yes

Traffic/Crowds: Medium. Because this is an outdoor space with small shops there is some foot traffic. Weekdays will be less crowded than weekends. The best time would be Sunday morning.

Insider View: For an artsy, urban backdrop, The LAB provides colorful murals, metal textures, and trendy architecture. Great for older kids or lifestyle family portraits. Afternoon light is filtered through trees, creating dynamic compositions without harsh shadows.

Still Looking for More Information On a Location?

Just click below to schedule a quick chat

8. The Camp, Costa Mesa CA ⭐ 8.2

Location: Costa Mesa

Dedicated to being a retail complex featuring health-conscious & eco-friendly local shops, services & eateries. Unique and bright.

What we love: The unique outdoor space. All the colors and eco-friendly spots.

Address:   2937 Bristol St, Costa Mesa, CA 92626

Best time of day to shoot: Early in the morning or late afternoon. All-year-round.

Permits and Fees: Yes.

Parking: Free & valet parking. Parking lot and street parking are available.

Restrooms: Yes

Traffic/Crowds: Medium. Because this is an outdoor space with small shops there is some foot traffic. Weekdays will be less crowded than weekends.

Insider Tip: Trendy, eco-friendly, and filled with colorful architecture and greenery. The Camp is ideal for families wanting a modern, lifestyle-inspired portrait session. Try early Sunday mornings for soft light and fewer visitors.

9. Tewinkle Park, Costa Mesa ⭐ 8.8

Location: Costa Mesa across from the OC Fair Grounds

This park features 49 acres of open space. This peaceful park is in the heart of Costa Mesa. Featuring a large lake, water fountains, and waterfalls. See photos at Tewinkle Park 

What we love: The huge boulders and lake make a beautiful backdrop. This park is easy to meet at. I begin the photo shoot by the parking lot and take you on a loop through the park, stopping along the way at all the best backdrops. Peaceful bridges, ducks, ponds, and greenery make TeWinkle Park ideal for relaxed family sessions. Accessibility and restrooms are excellent, and parking is close by. Its variety of backgrounds suits everything from casual to polished looks.

Address:  970 Arlington Dr, Costa Mesa, CA 92626

Best time of day to shoot: Weekdays late afternoon. Weekend mornings.

Permits and Fees: None

Parking: Easy. Free parking. Parking lot and street parking are available.

Restrooms: No

Traffic/Crowds: Low. Plenty of places to photograph without people in the background. However, can get very crowded on weekends and when the weather is nice.

10. San Clemente Pier, San Clemente CA ⭐ 8.9

Location: San Clemente

San Clemente Pier Beach is the main city beach of San Clemente. The beach is wide and sandy on both sides of the pier. There is an active railroad track that runs right behind the beach. This beach also has a nice setting with palm trees and grassy areas near the pier entrance. I like to meet families in the grassy area where we begin our photoshoot. Then we walk down to the sand and under the pier for some more fun photos. Another great spot for photos is by the lifeguard tower and the back side of the rocks near the railroad tracks. Don't worry we stay safely away from the active train tracks.  See our San Clemente Pier photos here. 

What we love: The soft sand and the small grassy area by the parking lot.

Address:  100 S Alameda Ln San Clemente, CA 92672

Best time of day to shoot: Morning or late afternoon. This location is best in the Fall and Winter. Spring and early summer can be overcast and have a heavy marine layer.

Permits and Fees: None

Parking: Paid metered parking lot and metered street parking. Some free street parking in the nearby neighborhood.

Restrooms: Yes

Traffic/Crowds: High traffic. Summer is the peak season. Very crowded with locals and tourists. Could impact your photos with people in the background.

Insider Tip: This pier offers a laid-back beach aesthetic with warm boardwalk tones and coastal charm. Perfect for families seeking sunset portraits by the ocean. Parking is close and bathrooms are nearby.

Still Looking for More Information On a Location?

Just click below to schedule a quick chat

11. Fullerton Arboretum, Fullerton CA ⭐ 8.8

Location: Fullerton Arboretum

Located on the campus of Cal State University Fullerton.

What we love: All the open space, diverse plants, and trees. Lots of shade and, of course, the pond.

Address:  1900 Associated Rd, Fullerton, CA 92831

Best time of day to shoot: Morning or late afternoon. This location is best in the Fall and Winter. Spring and early summer can be overcast and have a heavy marine layer.

Hours: Monday-Sunday 9 am to 4 pm

Permits and Fees: 

• 1-10 people: $125 9 a.m.-2 p.m.
• 11-20 people: $225 9 a.m.-2 p.m.
• 1-10 people: $350 3 p.m.-sunset
• 11-20 people: $450 3 p.m.-sunse

Check the official site Fullerton Arboretum for up-to-date details

Parking: Paid metered parking lot right outside the entrance to the arboretum.

Restrooms: Yes

Traffic/Crowds: Low traffic/crowds

Insider Tip: A lush botanical haven with over 4,000 plant species, shaded trails, and charming structures. Requires a small permit but offers exceptional diversity for portraits. Restrooms and parking are easy to access.

12. Jeffery Open Space Trail, Irvine ⭐ 8.8

Location: City of Irvine, CA.

Located just past Portola Parkway in the north to the Quail Hill open space in the south. 

What we love: All the open space, diverse plants, and trees.

Address:  13252 Jeffrey Rd, Irvine, CA 92620

Best time of day to shoot: Morning or late afternoon. This location is good all year round.

Hours: 24 hrs. a day

Permits and Fees: No permit fees required

Parking: Parking can be challenging, as it is located in a residential neighborhood. There is no designated parking lot to access the trails.

Restrooms: Yes. In my experience, the restrooms are not very convenient.

Traffic/Crowds: Traffic is higher on weekends, and midweek has fewer crowds

Insider Tip: Easy access, manicured landscaping, and open fields make this trail a hidden gem for Orange County family portraits. Great for kids to roam safely and for capturing lifestyle-style moments.

13. Urban Forest Huntington Beach, CA ⭐ 8.2

Location: Huntington Central Park Equestrian Center, Huntington Beach, CA

Located in Central Park, north of Ellis Avenue between Goldenwest and Edwards Streets.

What we love: All the open space, trails, and native trees and plants. Sunsets here are beautiful.

Address:   6711 Ellis Ave, Huntington Beach, CA 92648

Best time of day to shoot: Morning or late afternoon. This location is great all year round.

Hours: Monday-Sunday 6 am to 8 pm

Permits and Fees: No permits or fees required

Parking: Street parking in the residential neighborhood off Ellis Avenue or the Central Park Dog Park

Restrooms: No

Traffic/Crowds: Low traffic/crowds

Insider Tip:  Best for families and couples who can walk on unsteady terrain. Expect to walk about 5-10 minutes to get to the center of the Urban forest.  

14.  Hiltscher Park Trail, Fullerton ⭐ 8.2

Location: In Fullerton off of N. Euclid St. between Malvern and Bastanchury

What we love: All the open space, trails, and large mature oak trees. 

Address:   1002 N Euclid St Fullerton, CA 92833

Best time of day to shoot: Anytime of day before sunset. This location is great all year round.

Hours: Monday-Sunday 6 am to 8 pm

Permits and Fees: No permits or fees required

Parking: Parking lot is limited. Alternative parking nearby, neighborhood, or street parking.

Restrooms: No

Traffic/Crowds: Low traffic/crowds

Insider Tip:  This trail is actually a dry washbed that runs between large trees. It is part of the famous Fullerton Bike Loop. So be on the look out for mountain bikers riding by. Best for families and couples who can walk on unsteady terrain. 

15.  Treasure Island, Laguna Beach  ⭐ 8.8

Location: Treasure Island is located in Laguna Beach. It is best accessed by the ramp at the southwest corner of the Montage Resort.

What we love: The tide pools, scenic ocean, and bluffs.  

Address:   Wesley Dr, Laguna Beach, CA 92651

Best time of day to shoot: Early morning or late afternoon about 30 minutes before sunset. This location is great all year round.

Hours: Closed between 1 am -5 am daily.

Permits and Fees: Yes a permit is required costs $100

Parking: Paid parking lot or street parking on PCH and neighborhood across from the beach.

Restrooms: Yes

Traffic/Crowds: Heavy crowds during peek season and weekends.

Insider Tip: Known for dramatic cliffs and turquoise water, Treasure Island Beach is one of the most breathtaking backdrops in Southern California. Parking is limited, so plan ahead—but the results are magazine-worthy.

16. Crystal Cove State Park, Newport Beach ⭐ 9.0

Location: At the end of Newport Beach just before Laguna Beach on PCH

What we love: The coastal charm and rustic look.

Address:  5 Crystal Cove &, Newport Coast, CA 92657

Best time of day to shoot: Early morning or late afternoon about 30 minutes before sunset. 

Hours: Monday-Sunday 6 am to 10 pm

Permits and Fees: permits or fees required $50-250

Parking: Los Trancos parking area with trolley access to the Historic District.

Restrooms: Yes

Traffic/Crowds: High crowds on weekends and peek summer season.

Insider Tip:  Great for large families. This is a historic district with iconic coastal charm, including cottages, cliffs, and long sandy stretches. Requires a permit but offers unbeatable sunset light. Ideal for families seeking the classic Orange County beach aesthetic.

17. Huntington Beach Pier  ⭐ 8.9

Location: In Huntington Beach across from Main st. in downtown HB.

What we love: The iconic pier and the stunning sunsets.  

Address:   103 Pacific Coast Hwy, Huntington Beach, CA 92648

Best time of day to shoot: Early morning or 30 minutes before sunset.  This location is great all year round.

Hours: Monday-Sunday 6 am to 12 am

Permits and Fees: No permits or fees required

Parking: Paid parking meter, city or state beach parking pass. Alternative parking nearby, neighborhood, or street parking.

Restrooms: Yes

Traffic/Crowds: High traffic year round.

Insider Tip:  An iconic Orange County landmark. Great for families wanting vibrant beach energy and sunset glow. Parking and restrooms are close by for easy sessions.

18. Pirates Cove Newport Beach, CA  ⭐ 8.4

Location: Pirate’s Cove Beach is the small beach on the west side of the parking lot at Corona Del Mar State Beach in Newport Beach, California. 

What we love: The popular beach at Corona Del Mar State Beach offers lots of sand and nice facilities a short walk away.

Address:  2889 Way Ln, Corona Del Mar, CA 92625

Best time of day to shoot: Anytime of day before sunset. This location is great all year round.

Hours: Monday-Sunday 6 am to 10 pm

Permits and Fees: No permits or fees required

Parking: Paid parking lot at entrance.

Restrooms: Yes

Traffic/Crowds: Low traffic/crowds can be high in peek season

Insider Tip:  Hidden between cliffs, this small beach offers dramatic rocks and privacy. Access can be tricky but worth the effort for cinematic family portraits. Recommended for families with older children. Must be able to climb uneven rocks.

19. Top Of The World Laguna Beach ⭐ 8.6

Location: This vista viewpoint is located in Alta Laguna Park in the Laguna Beach Neighborhood.

What we love: All the open space, the views of the Pacific Ocean.

Address: W Ridge, Laguna Beach, CA 92651

Best time of day to shoot: Early morning. This location is great all year round.

Hours: Monday-Sunday 6 am to 8 pm

Permits and Fees: No permits or fees required

Parking: Street parking is available in the neighborhood.

Restrooms: No

Traffic/Crowds: Heavier traffic on weekends. Busy with day hikers and mountain bikers.

Insider Tip:  Must hike up a 5-minute trail to the viewpoint.  There is no shade. Great location for pop the question for a surprise proposal.

20. Newport Back Bay  ⭐ 8.6

Location: Also known as Upper Newport Bay located on the border of Irvine in Newport Beach.

What we love: I like the natural beauty and the sunsets over the back bay. Smooth paved pathways to walk on make this place easy for all ages.

Address:    2301 University Dr, Newport Beach, CA 92660

Best time of day to shoot: Late afternoon before sunset. This location is great all year round.

Hours: Monday-Sunday 6 am to 8 pm

Permits and Fees: No permits or fees required

Parking: Street parking is available in the neighborhood

Restrooms: Yes

Traffic/Crowds: Light crowds, mostly pedestrians or bicyclists

Insider Tip:  This location is great for families and couples.

Ideal for active families who enjoy walking while capturing natural, candid moments.

21. Balboa Fun Zone, Newport Beach ⭐ 8.9

Location: The Balboa Fun Zone is a family destination located on the Balboa Peninsula in the city of Newport Beach, Orange County, California.

What we love: The fun vibe of a carnival like atmosphere and the colorful shops.  

Address: 600 E Bay Ave, Newport Beach, CA 92661

Best time of day to shoot: Anytime of day before sunset. This location is great all year round.

Hours: Vary

Permits and Fees: No permits or fees required

Parking: Paid Parking lot. Alternative parking nearby, neighborhood, or street parking.

Restrooms: Yes

Traffic/Crowds: Busy on weekends and during summer months.

Insider Tip: Charming streets, colorful docks, and ferry views make Balboa Island ideal for families wanting fun, candid portraits. Everything’s within walking distance—great for kids and parking convenience.

22. Newport Beach Civic Center

⭐ 8.8

Location: In Newport Beach across from Fashion Island. The Civic Center Park is also across the way.

What we love: Modern building, and sleek backdrops. Lots of shade makes it ideal for portraits.

Address:  100 Civic Center Dr, Newport Beach, CA 92660

Best time of day to shoot: Early morning or late afternoon.  This location is great all year round.

Hours: Monday-Sunday 6 am to 8 pm

Permits and Fees:  permits and fees required

Parking: Parking lot on site.

Restrooms: Yes

Traffic/Crowds: Low traffic/crowds

Insider Tip:  Modern architecture meets rolling hills and bridges. This spot works beautifully for clean, bright family photos with an urban-meets-nature feel.

23. Downtown Laguna Beach ⭐ 8.8

Location: Laguna Beach on PCH between Forest Ave. and Legion St.

What we love: All the restaurants and art galleries. Plus tons of unique murals.

Address:  

Best time of day to shoot: Late afternoon before sunset. This location is great all year round.

Hours: 

Permits and Fees: No permits or fees required

Parking: Street parking, meter parking, and public paid parking lots.

Restrooms: No

Traffic/Crowds: High traffic/crowds

Insider Tip:  We will take you on a guided walking tour of downtown Laguna Beach, where we stop at all the unique hidden alleys and storefronts for great photos.

Location: San Juan Capistrano CA.

What we love: The rustic Spanish-style buildings and garden. 

Address:   26801 Old Mission Rd, San Juan Capistrano, CA 92675

Best time of day to shoot: Early morning or late afternoon.

Hours: Tuesday-Sunday, 9 am to 5 pm, closed on Mondays

Permits and Fees: Yes, a permit is required. The fee is $90-$500. Lots of restrictions, please see the official site for up-to-date info.

Parking: Public parking is available in the surrounding streets near the Mission. The most visible parking lot is on the south side of Old Mission Road and El Camino Real.

Restrooms: Yes

Traffic/Crowds: Can be crowded with tourists and visitors. Local schools also take field trips here.

Insider Tip: Historic beauty at its finest. The mission’s gardens, arches, and courtyards create timeless backdrops for family photography.

25. Portrait Studio in Orange County ⭐ 9.6

Location: Fountain Valley, CA

What we love: The simple, sleek backdrop for a minimalist classic portrait. Controlled lighting, comfortable climate, and creative freedom make studio portraits a top pick.

Address:  Fountain Valley, CA

Best time of day to shoot: Anytime of day. 

Hours:   By appointment only.

Permits and Fees: No permits. Additional studio rental fee may apply. 

Parking: Plenty of street parking

Restrooms: Yes

Traffic/Crowds: Don't have to worry about weather or crowds

Insider Tip:  A studio portrait session can be arranged for up to groups of 3. For larger groups, an off-site studio in Huntington Beach can be arranged to rent at an additional fee.

26. In-Home Session Orange County  ⭐ 9.0

Location: Your Orange County or nearby home.

What we love: Nothing feels more personal than portraits in your own home. Comfortable for kids and pets, it captures real life in familiar surroundings.

Address:  Orange County/Los Angeles

Best time of day to shoot: Anytime of day before sunset. This location is great all year round.

Hours: Monday-Sunday 6 am to 8 pm

Permits and Fees: No permits or fees required

Parking: Easy

Restrooms: Yes

Traffic/Crowds: Low traffic/crowds

Insider Tip:  A morning session of children in their PJs playing a board game with their parents or baking in the kitchen is always fun photos to capture. Perfect lighting and styling advice from your photographer bring it all together beautifully.

Key Takeaways

Orange County has so much to offer for diverse and unique portrait locations. Some of the best places to take pictures in Orange County are located in Huntington Beach, Newport Beach, and Laguna Beach.

Top 5 All-Around Family Portrait Locations in Orange County (9.0+)

1. Huntington Central Park – best balance of nature, comfort, accessibility
2. Portrait Studio – perfect lighting control and comfort.
3. Crystal Cove State Park – unbeatable coastal variety, timeless OC aesthetic.
4. In-Home Sessions – intimate, convenient, and kid-friendly.
5. Irvine Regional Park – classic family favorite with ample amenities.
   

• Best Scenic Backdrops: Laguna Beach, Treasure Island Beach, Shaws Cove, Crystal Cove, and Mission San Juan Capistrano.
• Best Urban/Modern Aesthetic: The LAB, The Camp, Noguchi Gardens, Newport Beach Civic Center.
• Hidden Gems: Urban Forest (HB), Hiltscher Park Trail (Fullerton), Pirate’s Cove (Newport).
• Easiest with Kids or Elderly Family Members: Huntington Central Park, Irvine Regional Park, Jeffrey Open Space, or OC Portrait Studio.

If you love my Best Outdoor Family Portrait Locations In Orange County or would like some help planning your next family portrait please be sure to connect with us and let us know. We also have a great list of engagement photo locations in Orange County.

Feeling stressed out about what to wear for your family photos? We have put together a really useful guide on what colors are the best for family portraits. 

FAQs