I’m just going to say it: there’s no prettier place to explore in the spring than the North Bay, especially Marin County.
The Bay Area has always had a funny relationship with seasons. When it’s supposed to feel like fall, we’re often still dealing with summer heat. When winter arrives, things can still feel pretty mild. And spring? Spring can be short, unpredictable, and sometimes all over the place. Some years, like this one, we get hot days in March and then suddenly a stretch of light rain.
Over the years, I’ve learned how to work with Marin’s ever-changing weather and how different locations are affected by our unique Bay Area seasons. And when it comes to Marin County, I know these spots like the back of my hand. Probably because they kind of are my backyard.
With my studio based in Sausalito, I spend a lot of time exploring the beautiful locations Marin has to offer. And spring is one of the best times to plan family photos here. We usually have until early June to enjoy the lush green hills, fresh blooms, and softer landscapes before the summer heat starts turning everything golden.
So if you’ve been thinking about booking family photos this season, here are three of my favorite spring photo locations in Marin County, plus a few insider tips from your favorite Auntie Photographer to help make the experience even easier for your family.
1. Marin Headlands
The Marin Headlands are classic, iconic, and beautiful all year round. But there’s something extra magical about them in the spring. The hills are greener, the coastal flowers begin to bloom, and the longer days make the whole area feel dreamy.
If you want a location that feels open, scenic, and very Marin, this is always one of my favorite places to recommend.
A few tips:
- Expect a little wind. We’re close to the ocean, so a breeze is almost guaranteed. But honestly? Windswept hair can add so much movement and magic to your photos.
- Great for morning or sunset sessions. This location works beautifully earlier in the day or later in the evening, depending on your family’s schedule and your kids’ energy.
- Wear comfortable shoes. This is a gorgeous and accessible location overall, but there can still be a bit of walking and some hillside terrain.
2. Dominican University Campus
This location has so much variety, which is one of the reasons I love it in the spring. There’s tons of greenery, open space, and pockets of flowers popping up all throughout the campus.
Because the grounds are maintained, it’s one of the more predictable locations for spring blooms. That is a huge advantage when planning sessions. You can count on lush greens and beautiful florals showing up right on time.
I also love that some of the buildings have greenery creeping up the sides, which adds a unique, slightly European feel to your photos.
Things to know:
- Perfect for golden hour. The open space lets light pour in beautifully.
- Great for kids of all ages and all mobility levels since it is flat and easy to navigate.
- Works well at almost any time of day thanks to the mix of shade, trees, and buildings.
3. Dunphy Park
Right in Sausalito on the water, this is one of my favorite under-the-radar locations.
It is simple, accessible, and in the spring it really comes alive with blooms. There is a charming little archway that often fills with roses, plus beautiful ground coverage with orange and yellow florals that photograph so well.
It may not be as dramatic as some of the larger Marin locations, but that is part of the charm. It is easy, relaxed, and perfect for families who want something low-stress but still beautiful.
Tips:
- Great for all mobility types. It is very easy to walk through.
- Perfect for all ages, with options to sit and take breaks if needed.
- Beautiful at any time of day, but I especially love it in the morning. Everything feels fresh, and toddlers tend to do really well earlier in the day.
4. Cavallo Point
Cavallo Point is one of those truly iconic Marin locations because it gives us one of the best views of the Golden Gate Bridge.
This location is beautiful year-round, but I especially love it in the spring because you get a little bit of everything. Clearer skies, fresh greenery, and more variety in the landscape. While the bridge is obviously a major highlight, I also love walking families through some of the quieter surrounding areas where there’s more foliage and open space. After a little spring rain, the whole area feels extra alive and beautiful.
It’s one of those locations that feels timeless, elegant, and unmistakably Bay Area.
A few tips:
- Spring adds more variety. In the fall, a lot of the surrounding foliage turns brown, so the focus is more on the bridge and water. Spring gives us the bridge and the greenery.
- This location is dog-friendly.
- Perfect for more than just family sessions. I also love Cavallo Point for maternity sessions, headshots, and branding photos. Truly, what’s more iconic than the Golden Gate?
Thinking About Spring Family Photos in Marin?
I hope this list inspires you to get outside and explore more of Marin County this spring, or at the very least, finally book those family photos you’ve been meaning to take.
One of the best things about spring family sessions is that they don’t need to be tied to a holiday, a big event, or any extra pressure. In fact, some of the most meaningful family photos happen when you’re simply showing up as you are and enjoying a beautiful day together.
You don’t need a “special occasion” to document this season of life. Your family, exactly as you are right now, is reason enough.
If you’ve been thinking about booking spring family photos in Marin, I’d love to help you choose the perfect location and create something beautiful together.
Reach out today to book your spring session in Marin County.
