If you’ve been trying to plan your family photos and feel a little stuck on location or want something unique, let me put the San Francisco Ferry Building on your radar.
If you’re a San Francisco or Bay Area native, you’ve probably grown up hearing about the Ferry Building. Maybe you visit weekly for coffee or lunch, or maybe your family heads there for the farmers market to explore local vendors. But I’m willing to bet you haven’t really thought about it as a location for family photos.
So let me show you around the Ferry building and add it to your list of iconic locations for family photos in San Francisco!
The Ferry Building Is Kid Friendly (and Parent Approved)
The inside of the Ferry Building gets beautiful natural light, which is so fun to photograph, but the real star for family photos is outside.
Architecturally, it’s stunning. You get long lines, soft neutral tones, and just enough texture to make your images feel elevated without distracting from what matters most, your family. It’s one of those backdrops that adds to the photo instead of competing with it.
And for kids, it’s perfect. There are ridges, ledges, and little spots to climb, sit, and explore. It naturally invites movement, which makes sessions feel less like “stand here and smile” and more like play. The open space along the Embarcadero gives kids room to run, and that freedom makes a huge difference in how relaxed everyone feels.
Plus, you’re right on the water with views of the Bay Bridge, so you get that iconic San Francisco feel woven into your gallery. Yes, it can get busy. But this is a big space, which means we can always find quieter pockets and angles that feel more intimate.
If you’re planning your own session, take a look at the Rabaut family photos below. Their kids are 7, 4, and 16 months, so this is a great example of what it looks like to photograph younger kids in a more public, urban setting. If you have kids who love trains/ trams, this is going to be extra special for them because The Muni’s F-Line and Wharves historic streetcar runs along The Embarcadero, stopping directly in front of the San Francisco Ferry Building. If you’re up for even more adventure, we can also take a little stroll on it!
There was a lot of running, playing, and just letting the kids be themselves, and honestly, that’s when the best moments happen.
What It’s Like Photographing at the Ferry Building
Now let’s talk logistics, because I know this is the part families (and photographers) always wonder about.
Whenever I photograph somewhere new, I like to do a little research ahead of time, where to park, what the light is like, what to expect. After spending time at the Ferry Building, here are a few helpful tips to make your session feel easy and enjoyable.
Do you need a permit?
For outdoor family photography at the Ferry Building, a permit is typically not required. If you’re planning to photograph inside for professional work, you may need to contact property management for permission:
https://www.ferrybuildingmarketplace.com/property-management/
What’s the best time to photograph?
I usually recommend aiming for early morning or later in the afternoon, closer to sunset. The light is softer, and the space tends to feel a little calmer for families.
That said, this is one of those locations that really works at almost any time of day. Because of the surrounding buildings, there’s a lot of open shade, which helps avoid harsh light on faces. So even if your schedule only allows for a midday session, we can absolutely still create beautiful images.
If you’re hoping to include photos inside the Ferry Building, keep in mind most shops are open around 10am to 6pm, so we’ll want to plan timing around that.
How to get there
I know coming into the city can feel a little intimidating, especially if it’s not your usual routine. But the Ferry Building is actually very accessible for families.
If you’re coming from Marin, I highly recommend taking the ferry. It drops you off right at the terminal, and honestly, it turns the whole session into more of an experience. Kids love it, and those moments can even become part of your photo story.
From the East Bay, there are ferry options from Oakland as well. If you live in San Francisco, Muni and BART both take you right there.
And if you prefer to drive, you can usually find parking along the Embarcadero, though it can take a little patience depending on the time of day.
Family Photos at the San Francisco Ferry Building? Yes, Please!
If you’re looking for a unique, urban location for family photos, I promise you, the Ferry Building will not disappoint. One of my favorite things about this spot is that it’s not just a backdrop, it’s an experience. There are so many little moments we can build into your session that feel natural and fun:
- Taking the ferry into the terminal
- Riding the Muni’s historic streetcar together
- Walking along the waterfront
- Grabbing a snack or exploring the farmers market
If you’re planning family photos soon, I would absolutely add the Ferry Building to your list. It’s one of my favorite San Francisco locations for a reason.
And as always, I offer family sessions year-round, and I’d love to help you create something beautiful here.
Book your session today!
