Your guide to some of the best beach photography locations on the Central Coast

Before highlighting my five favorite beach locations on the Central Coast for family portraits let’s take a deep dive into why the beaches in San Luis Obispo County offer some of the best photo locations.

• Breathtaking Scenery: The Central Coast is home to some of California’s most stunning landscapes. Whether you want dramatic coastal cliffs, rolling green hills, golden fields, or picturesque beaches, this region has it all. Locations like Shell Beach, Morro Bay, and the scenic bluffs of Montana de Oro provide unique and varied backdrops that make your family portraits stand out and provide lasting memories.
• Mild Year-Round Weather: Unlike other regions in California that experience extreme heat or cold, the Central Coast enjoys a temperate climate. Even in the winter, you can often enjoy mild temperatures, making outdoor family sessions comfortable and enjoyable throughout the year. Note, coastal fog is a reality of the Central Coast as well. It can creep in during the summer months and is somewhat unpredictable. If the weather is calling for fog or coastal clouds and your limited with your schedule most of my families make the best of it. I also have a way to edit the photos with a warm tone and bring out the details with my post processing of your photos.
• Variety of Locations: The Central Coast beaches have everything from sand dunes, wide open beaches to the rugged cliffs and beaches of Montan De Oro and depending on the time of year most are uncrowded unlike the packed beaches of Southern California. Most of the beaches north of Pismo beach are often more relaxed, peaceful and quite. The beaches in Morro Bay, Cayucos and beyond provide privacy, so your family can focus on having fun without large crowds in the background..
• Adventure and Memories: Family photo sessions aren’t just about “taking photos-it’s an experience! Many families turn their sessions into a fun outing, exploring tide pools at low tide, playing in the sand, or hiking to scenic overlooks. This makes for authentic, candid moments that truly capture your family’s love and energy.

Monarch Butterfly Grove | Pismo Beach

For something different than the wide open beach, the area just beyond the Monarch Butterfly Grove in Pismo beach offers a creative variety of subtle sand dunes to wind sculpted cypress trees. I like this spot because of it’s easy accessibility and beautiful location. Here’s the scoop on how to get there: The actual directions guide you to the Butterfly Grove on Highway 1. Once you park along the road simply walk through the butterfly grove to an easy trail over a small creek and proceed along the path to the Cypress trees, see photo below. Once your there you can have your family portraits done in the midst of the cypress trees and then walk out towards to sand dunes below the tree line if desired.

Pismo Caves | Pismo Beach

The Pismo caves location can be found on the most northern beach area of Pismo Beach. The best way to access this magical location is by parking at the Sea Crest Hotel, proceed around the pool area and then walk down the public stairs to the beach. Note, not accessible to anyone unable to walk up and down somewhat steep stairs. A few practical tips: The beach and the caves are only accessible at low tide, the lower the better. If you can schedule your session about an hour prior to sunset you can enjoy the benefits of the warm golden hour light. Once your down at the beach take advantage of the variety of cliffs and caves. The white cliffs have the look and feel of Greece. See more images here.

Avila Cove | Avila Beach

Avila Cove has been one of my all time favorite beach locations for family portraits on the Central Coast for so many years now. The town of Avila alone is worth checking out with all it’s shops, restaurants, coffee shops along with it’s colorful and funky beach vibes. Some of my personal favorites are sitting out in the sunshine in front of Kraken Coffee, lunch at Mersea’s (located on the Port San Luis Pier) and of course Ice Cream at the Hula Hut.

To access the Cove simply park anywhere to the south of the pier and walk about a quarter of a mile south. Make sure to go during a low tide as the point that you need to walk around can be unaccessible at a higher tide. Even if the tide isn’t low enough your can still go as far as you can and have your portraits done with the cove in the backdrop. The golden hour light is a must if you are able since the cliffs turn a beautiful amber and golden color. Tip.Start your portrait session 30 minutes prior to the last hour of light since the sunset actually sets about 20 minutes earlier than what your app may tell you due to the sun descending behind the northern end of the beach prior to the actual sunset, if this make sense?

See more Avila Cove photos here.

Morro Bay | Morro Rock

Morro Bay, with it’s iconic Morro Rock, offers a offers a picturesque backdrop that perfectly frames family portraits. The large dirt parking lot is easy to find. Once your their it’s an short walk down to the beach. There are two locations that work well for family portraits. One is sand dunes and wheat grass that you will notice from the beach. If you have a smaller family and everyone is able to walk up to the sand dunes your really can’t go wrong with this location as your portraits are framed by both the san dunes and wheat grass along with the majestic Morro Rock in the background. The other location is simply right on the beach with the Rock in the background. Better for multigenerational, large group portraits. The beach itself is quite large, so even if the tide is high you will still find plenty of beach to work with. After or before your session, explore all the shops, restaurants and local charm of Morro Bay on the Embarcadero.

Cayucos Beach | Cayucos

Heading 10 miles north on Highway One is Cayucos Beach. Often when some of the other coastal locations to the south have coastal clouds, Cayucos has it’s own micro climate and can often be bright and sunny. The two primary locations that I photography my family sessions in Cayucos is the Pier area and the beach a tad south of the pier. The top photo is a great example of this and you can often have Morro Rock in the background as well. The beach south of the pier has several access points with stairs leading down to the beach. Low tide is idea, however, there is usually plenty of beach to work with if the tides not super high. Before or after your portrait session be sure to check out this wonderful laid back town. Some of my favorites are Duckies Chowder House in front of the pier and and Schooners, a local favorite. See one of my full family sessions here.

Photographing a Fall family portrait session in Paso Robles reminds me of what a majestic place the California’s Central Coast is. This Thanksgiving session was an opportunity for a multi-generational family to gather at a VRBO in Paso Robles and document their family with a variety of relaxed groupings that reflect the bond of love that they all had.

The back hills of Paso Robles provided a breathtaking backdrop that blended natural beauty with laughter, connection and lots of love. The rolling hills covered in oak trees, the sun-kissed vineyards, and expansive views that seem to stretch for miles was the perfect backdrop to capture this precious family. Finding a family portrait photographer near me who understands how to use such a stunning location makes all the difference.

The charm of the Central Coast lies not just in its scenic vistas, but also in its unique light. The soft, warm glow of the golden hour (just before sunset) creates a magical atmosphere, casting long shadows and highlighting the beauty of the landscape. Whether your family enjoys quiet moments together, playful laughter, or candid interactions, the back hills offer a natural canvas for those moments to unfold. Having a family portrait photographer near me who knows when to capture these moments is invaluable especially for portrait sessions in the back hills of San Luis Obispo County.

During the session, the relaxed rural setting allows families to be themselves. The open spaces offer room for kids to run and play, while parents can savor the intimacy of the moment without the distractions of urban life. The hills and vineyards serve as a stunning backdrop, with the landscape changing throughout the year, providing a variety of colors and textures—from lush greenery in spring to golden tones in the summer and fall. This underscores the importance of selecting a family portrait photographer near me who can capture each season’s beauty.

Choosing the North County for your family portrait session is more than just about creating beautiful photos; it’s about preserving a moment in time, set against one of California’s most captivating landscapes. Whether you’re a local or visiting, this serene location offers an unforgettable experience to celebrate family and the beauty of the Central Coast. Hence, finding a skilled family portrait photographer near me can ensure these memories are perfectly captured.

Whether you are considering having your immediate family photographed or extended family reach out for information and open dates. You can view other family sessions here and can find my contact information here.

There’s something timeless and delightful about capturing a family portrait session at San Luis Obispo creek. The soft sounds of the water, the beautiful natural light, and the lush surroundings created the perfect backdrop for this memorable shoot. This precious family has a special place in my heart as I photographed Bonnie and Beau’s wedding at the Tiber Canyon Ranch over 12 years ago and have been photographing their family portraits for the past 10 years.

Before heading down to the creek, we started the session off at the San Luis Obispo Mission as it provided the perfect backdrop with its surrounding architecture, foliage and trees as our backdrop. We chose this spot because it’s not only scenic but also has a laid-back, outdoorsy vibe that really matched their personalities as well as their clothing choices. Right away, we all felt at ease—sometimes nature has a way of bringing out the best smiles and genuine interactions, especially in family photos. We used their playful energy to get some spontaneous shots that really captured their fun, adventurous spirits. The creek itself provided so many different looks for the session. We started with a few classic poses near the edge of the water, taking advantage of the soft reflections and warm afternoon light. It was a perfect way to capture the closeness of this family. We also took a little stroll further down the creek, where the trees open up just enough to let the light stream through.

As we finished up I’m always overwhelmed that I have the honor of documenting all the love and connection with this beautiful family during our San Luis Obispo creek family photo shoot. XOXO

Whether you are considering having your immediate family photographed or extended family reach out for information and open dates. You can view other family sessions here and can find my contact information here.

Celebrate Your Senior Year with David Pascolla Photography

Atascadero and Templeton High School Senior portrait season is upon us. Senior year is a once-in-a-lifetime milestone, marking the end of one chapter and the start of another exciting journey. Whether you’re graduating from high school or college, your senior portraits should reflect your personality, achievements, and style. This is a great time to book your session with David Pascolla Photography. Most of my sessions are in the vineyards and rural settings of Templeton and Paso Robles. However, the coast is always beautiful and clear during the early Fall. See the Senior Portrait gallery here.

Customized Sessions to Fit Your Style

No two seniors are alike, and neither are our sessions. We work with each senior to design a portrait experience that matches your vision. From urban backdrops in downtown San Luis Obispo to scenic natural settings, we offer a range of locations that highlight your individuality. Whether you’re looking for something classic or modern, Celebrate Your Senior Year with David Pascolla Photography. We make sure your photos capture the essence of your personality and passions.

Showcasing Your Achievements

Your senior portraits are more than just pictures—they’re a way to celebrate your accomplishments. Bring along your sports gear, musical instruments, or anything else that tells your story. We love incorporating personal touches that highlight your talents and hard work. Caps and gowns, letterman jackets, or even your college acceptance letters can all be part of the fun and the experience with David Pascolla Photography.

The David Pascolla Photography Experience

We pride ourselves on creating a relaxed and enjoyable atmosphere during every shoot. We know how to make you feel comfortable in front of the camera, ensuring your authentic self shines through in every shot. From the initial consultation to the final gallery delivery, we’re with you every step of the way. All my sessions come with up to 20 lightly retouched, full resolution images. Celebrate Your Senior Year with David Pascolla Photography. You can learn more information along with pricing here.

Let’s make your senior year memorable with stunning portraits that you and your family will treasure forever. Contact David Pascolla Photography today to book your session and let’s capture the magic of your senior year!

Recently, I had the pleasure of working with Farr Dentistry in Atascadero. We chose to do an outdoor staff photo shoot that captured the spirit of their Dr. Farr and his amazing team. My goal was to reflect their values and professionalism through fresh, vibrant photos that showcase the personalities of the people who make this practice special during the shoot.

We chose a beautiful outdoor location right in front of their offices in Atascadero that offered a mix of natural greenery and simple backdrops. The setting allowed us to capture a relaxed and genuine vibe, making the staff feel at ease as we moved through the shoot. The natural light was perfect, and the sunny Central Coast weather added a warm, inviting touch to each shot of the Farr dentistry Atascadero photo shoot.

Each team member brought their unique energy and bright smiles which made the Farr dentistry Atascadero photo shoot so much fun. From the front desk staff who greet patients to the skilled hygienists and dental professionals dedicated to excellent care, every person shone in front of the camera. I aimed to capture authentic expressions and interactions, highlighting the camaraderie and dedication that set Farr Dentistry apart.

It was important to make sure everyone felt comfortable and confident during the shoot, so I focused on creating a relaxed atmosphere, offering simple posing tips and encouraging them to be themselves. The result was a collection of photos that not only showcase the professionalism of the team but also their approachable and caring nature, thanks to our Farr dentistry Atascadero photo shoot.

I’m excited for Farr Dentistry to use these images on their website and social media, helping to put a friendly face on their brand and connect with current and future patients. It was a pleasure to work with such a fantastic team, and I can’t wait to see how these photos bring their practice to life!

Reach out if your business your business is due for a fresh upgrade. Info and pricing here.

Nestled on the scenic central coast of California, Cayucos Beach is a hidden gem that offers the perfect backdrop for memorable Cayucos family portraits. Recently, I had the pleasure of photographing a lovely family at this picturesque location, and the experience was nothing short of magical.

From the moment we arrived, the natural beauty of Cayucos set the tone for a relaxed and joyful session. Even though the tide was somewhat high during the late afternoon, there was still plenty of room to get the desired photos before the sun set. Also, the beach access is wide open and has stairs and paths at least every two blocks. It’s an ideal place for Cayucos family portraits.

These moments, where the family was simply enjoying each other’s company, resulted in some of the most touching Cayucos family portraits of the day. I call these somewhat candid shots, the “moments in between moments”. Embracing spontaneity and letting things unfold naturally result in beautiful and authentic representations of the families I photograph.

What makes a family beach photo shoots so special is the combination of natural beauty and the genuine connections between family members. Whether it’s a playful splash in the surf, a quiet moment of reflection by the pier, or a group hug as the sun sets, every moment is an opportunity to create lasting memories.

For families looking to capture their unique bond in a setting that’s both stunning and intimate, Cayucos Beach is the ideal choice for Cayucos family portraits. The photos we created that day are more than just images—they’re a testament to the love and joy shared by this wonderful family.

I enjoy photographing large groups and extended family sessions. The following photos reflect all the joy and connection between several of the family members that came together for this session.

You can find more information including my pricing and detail information here.

Hotel Cerro in San Luis Obispo provided the perfect backdrop for a recent photo shoot I had with the Polk Insurance team. Against the backdrop of this boutique hotel’s chic interiors and elegant surroundings, the essence of professionalism and camaraderie came to life through my lens.

The team at Polk Insurance exuded confidence and unity, reflecting their commitment to excellence in the insurance industry. They were a so easy to work with and were full of life and brightness. Each headshot session was crafted to highlight not only the professional demeanor of each team member but also their approachable personalities, crucial in client-facing roles.

The hotel’s natural light provided a soft, flattering glow, enhancing every photograph with a touch of warmth and elegance. Whether in the hotel’s stylish meeting rooms or amidst the tranquil outdoor spaces, every frame captured the essence of teamwork and dedication.

As the session unfolded, the synergy between myself and the Polk team resulted in images that showcased their professionalism. The blend of modern architecture and natural beauty of San Luis Obispo served as an ideal setting, reinforcing the narrative of a forward-thinking team.

The photo shoot at Hotel Cerro for Polk Insurance was more than just capturing images; it was a celebration of professionalism, teamwork, and the scenic charm of San Luis Obispo. The resulting photographs stand as a testament to the dedication of the Polk Insurance team and the timeless elegance of Hotel Cerro, encapsulating a moment that speaks volumes about both business excellence and aesthetic harmony.

You can find more information including my pricing and detail information here and samples of headshot photography here.

I recently had the pleasure of photographing a wonderful family portrait session in the heart of Paso Robles that beautifully captured the essence of family love and connection. The family, comprising three generations gathered at a magical VRBO where they stayed for several days. A goal for the week was to honor their grandparents with not only time away but to capture their family ties with photographs. Each family member brought their own unique personality, yet it was their shared bonds and affection that truly shone through in every frame. From the playful laughter of the grandchildren to the serene smiles of the grandparents, every expression spoke volumes about their deep-rooted connections.

Throughout the session, I aimed to not just capture posed portraits, but also candid moments that revealed the family’s dynamics and interactions. Whether it was the shared glances between siblings reminiscing about childhood adventures or the tender embrace between grandparents and grandchildren and cousins each image told a story of love and continuity.

The Paso Robles landscape added its own charm to the photographs, with its rustic beauty and sprawling vineyards lending a picturesque quality to the scenes. As the session drew to a close, the family gathered for a final group shot against the backdrop golden oaks and a warm Central Coast sunset. The hues of orange and pink painted the sky, mirroring the warmth and happiness radiating from the family members. It was a fitting conclusion to a day filled with laughter, shared memories, and the celebration of family ties.

In the end, this family portrait session was more than just capturing photographs; it was about freezing moments in time that the family will cherish for years to come. It was a privilege to witness and document their story, reminding me once again of the profound beauty found in the simple joys of family.