Newport Beach Family Portraits

Portrait Photography For Fun Families In & Around Newport Beach, CA

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Look Amazing


Flexible Scheduling

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Fast Turn Around

A beach with a lot of yellow flowers and a boat in the distance in Newport Beach.

Local Photographer In Newport Beach

As a local expert, I guide families on a fun, easy, and stress-free custom photoshoot that is tailored just for your family. I know all the best hidden gems and iconic spots to create the perfect backdrop for your family portraits. Let’s capture the real smiles, the goofy moments, and the love that makes your family unique. Reach out today and let’s create beautiful memories together.

Meet Christopher Laguna Beach Location Expert

Hi, I’m Christopher Todd! I launched Christopher Todd Studios back in 2000, but my love for photography started long before that. Born and raised in Orange County, I’ve spent my life exploring this beautiful area. From surfing in Huntington Beach to discovering the best photo spots across the OC. Over the past 25 years as a professional photographer, I’ve continued to learn, grow, and refine my craft, specializing in headshots, family portraits, weddings, and events. My deep local knowledge helps me guide clients to the perfect locations—whether it’s a hidden coastal gem in Laguna Beach, a sunlit park in Irvine, or an iconic spot like the Huntington Beach Pier.


To make planning your session even easier, I’ve put together my Top 10 Outdoor Family Portrait Locations in Orange County  guide. If you're looking for an experienced, passionate photographer who truly knows OC, let’s connect! Contact me today.

When You Hire Us You Get:


Wardrobe Styling App

Use our exclusive app for stress-free outfit planning.


Expert Posing Coach

We coach you through different poses so you look amazing.


Local Guide

Get the best insider information from locations to permits.

See Why Busy Moms ❤️ Us!

Why Hire Christopher Todd Studios?

Best Deal Of The Year

Why not SAVE some cash 💵

Who doesn't like to save some money? Our print prices start at just $60 or get digitals from $200

You Get To Choose

Buy only the photos you want

Log in to your photo gallery after your session to pick your photos 🙏. Buy only what you want, and leave the rest.

Easy Planning

I handle all the logistics 📝

From details such as, where to park or arranging photo permits. Our streamlined process from our first contact through the delivery of images, will make your life easy!

20+ Years Experience

Hire a PRO

You are hiring Christopher Todd a master photographer with a lifetime of local knowledge, and experience so you can bet I will deliver a set of beautiful images you love ❤️.

Best Locations in Newport

Secret Spots/ Local Tips

Getting the best photos depends on knowing when & where to go. It's rare to have a location request we haven't been to multiple times. We can help you optimize your location and timing so your photos are amazing 🙌.

Coaching & Posing Help

Image is everything

In photography, the difference between 😒OK & 😳OMG comes down to coaching. Getting the best out of people is an art form most photographers lack, and it's where most inexperienced photographers fall flat.

Getting Started Is Easy As...

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Schedule Call

Use the link below to schedule a quick call so that I can learn more about you, answer all of your questions, and help you start planning your photography.

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Easy Photo Session

Relax! I will coach you through the process so you feel and look your best, including posing, facial expression, and expert guidance throughout our time together.

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Fast Delivery

I will usually have your images ready within 24-48 hours. So you can view or share your photos quickly so we can move your project forward without delay.

Watch This 60 Second BTS 🎥

A family is posing for a picture on the beach in Newport, California

Newport Beach Pier

Newport Beach Pier is a top choice for family portraits.

A family is posing for a picture together in front of a blue house on Balboa Peninsula.

Balboa Peninsula

This is a great place for family photos. Balboa Peninsula is perfect for a background.

A group of people and a dog are posing for a picture on the beach in front of the Balboa Pier.

Balboa Pier

Catch an iconic California sunset in Newport Beach with the Balboa Pier in the background.

A family is posing for a picture in front of the Newport Beach marina.

Lido Marina Village

Newport Beach Marina and Lido Marina Village are two great spots for family portraits.

My Top 5 Places To Take Photos In Newport Beach

Crystal Cove State Park

01

This state park offers miles of coastline, rocky bluffs, and a historic district with beach cottages that are perfect for capturing a vintage vibe. Perfect for a family portrait session. Don't forget to treat yourself to a special treat at the Crystal Cove Shake Shack.

02

Newport Pier

Newport Beach Pier is one of those iconic Orange County spots for a family portrait. The old wooden pier is a quintessential California backdrop for your photos. The trick is finding a parking space. Learn more about us at Orange County Family Photographer 

Balboa Pier

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Another classic pier in Newport Beach, perfect for sunset photos.

04

Lido Marina Village

Lido Marina Village is a charming waterfront destination in Newport Beach offering visitors a unique blend of high-end boutiques, upscale restaurants, and stunning views of the harbor. Be sure to pay the parking meters to avoid a costly parking ticket.

05

Newport Back Bay

This nature preserve offers hiking trails with views of the bay, wetlands, and a variety of wildlife. Perfect for those looking for great location for sunsets, nature and a rustic vibe.

My Favorite Time Of Year For Photos In Newport Beach, CA

My favorite time of the year in Newport Beach is the winter months from December to February. It is the time with the least crowds and most beautiful sunsets for amazing photography.


We also typically get a couple of weekends with summer weather in the middle of winter, so if you get lucky we might end up photographing you at the beach on a warm day in the middle of winter.


If you are new to the area or just visiting Newport Beach on vacation, continue to scroll down for all kinds of helpful information about what to do while you are in here.


Best Things To do In Newport Beach

Below you will find our personal recommendations for restaurants, hotels, and things to do.

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Where are the best places to eat and drink in Newport Beach?

  1. Rusty Pelican
  2. Bluewater Grill
  3. Cannery Seafood of the Pacific
  4. Nobu Newport
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Top Hotels and Resorts in Newport Beach to visit

  1. Renaissance Newport Beach Hotel
  2. Hyatt Regency Newport Beach
  3. Balboa Bay Resort
  4. Lido House Autograph Collection
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What are the best things to do in Newport Beach?

  1. Balboa Island Ferry 
  2. Exploring Balboa Island 
  3. Shopping at Fashion Island 
  4. Surf and sun bathe on the beach

Have A Specific Question?

Just click below to schedule a quick chat