David Pascolla wedding photography

Morro Bay Family Photographer – An Extended Family Session by Morro Rock

Multigenerational family portrait near Morro Rock in Morro Bay, California

There’s something special about photographing an extended family when everyone has come together on California’s Central Coast. These sessions aren’t just about getting one great photograph of the entire group—they’re about documenting all the smaller relationships that make up a family.

This recent extended family portrait session in Morro Bay was a perfect example. With three generations together, we were able to photograph the entire family while also creating portraits of the individual couples, grandparents, parents with their baby, and some of the wonderful little combinations that happen naturally during an extended family session. And with another little one on the way, the morning even turned into a bit of a maternity session as well.

And with Morro Rock, the sand dunes, beach grasses, and Pacific Ocean surrounding us, we couldn’t have asked for a more distinctly Morro Bay setting.

Family gathered along the shoreline during a portrait session in Morro Bay

More Than Just One Big Family Photograph

One of the things I love about extended family sessions is that they’re about much more than one big group photograph. We make time for the entire family together, but also for the smaller relationships within it—grandparents with grandchildren, couples, individual families, siblings, and those quieter in-between moments that often become some of my favorite images from the session.

Having their little one there made this an especially sweet season of family life to photograph.

Parents and their baby photographed with Morro Rock in the background

It’s also important to photograph each individual family within the larger group, giving them their own family portrait while everyone is together.

Sisters and baby sharing a joyful moment during a Morro Bay family session

Some of my favorite photographs are the ones that happen a little more spontaneously—like this joyful moment shared between three members of the family.

Father holding his baby during a family portrait session in Morro Bay

And of course, we made time for a few one-on-one moments with the littlest member of the family.

Sisters together during a multigenerational family session in Morro Bay

And of course, we photographed other smaller family combinations that will become increasingly meaningful as the years go by.

This is one of the reasons I especially enjoy photographing extended families. A single session can create photographs of relationships that families simply don’t have many opportunities to document professionally.

Grandparents sharing a happy moment with Morro Rock in the background

Grandparents Deserve Their Own Photographs, Too

One of my favorite things to do during a multigenerational family session is pull the grandparents aside for photographs of just the two of them.

Often they’re the reason everyone is together in the first place, yet they’re usually accustomed to being surrounded by children and grandchildren whenever the camera comes out.

These two made my job particularly easy.

Grandparents photographed together among the beach grasses in Morro Bay

We also created a few portraits among the beach grasses, giving them something completely different from the photographs we made closer to the water.

Smiling baby sitting on the sand during a family photography session in Morro Bay

Letting the Little Moments Happen

Of course, when there’s a baby involved, some of my favorite photographs aren’t necessarily the ones we planned.

Sometimes you simply give a little one some space and see what happens.

Baby walking hand in hand with parents along the beach in Morro Bay

Those photographs are a good reminder of why I don’t want a family portrait session to feel like an hour of everyone standing still and looking at the camera. The traditional portraits are important, but so are the expressions, laughter and interactions that happen between them.

Multigenerational family walking together along the beach with Morro Rock behind them

Planning a Family Portrait Session in Morro Bay

If your family is visiting Morro Bay, Paso Robles, Cayucos, Cambria or elsewhere on California’s Central Coast, getting everyone together can be a wonderful opportunity for an extended family portrait session.

Many of the families I photograph are here for a vacation, reunion, milestone birthday or simply a rare weekend when children, parents and grandparents are all in the same place.

My goal is to make the session relaxed and enjoyable while giving you much more than one photograph of the entire group. We’ll photograph the full family, individual households, grandparents, couples, children and other combinations that are important to you.

And when we’re somewhere as beautiful as Morro Bay, we’ll also make the location part of the story. If you’re considering a beach session elsewhere on the Central Coast, I’ve also put together a guide to some of my favorite beach locations for family portraits.

For this family, I can’t think of a better way to finish the morning than everyone walking together along the beach with Morro Rock behind them.

If you’re looking for a Morro Bay family photographer while your family is visiting the Central Coast, getting everyone together can be a wonderful opportunity to create photographs of the people who matter most. You can also learn more about my family portrait sessions and pricing before planning your session.

An Extended Family Portrait Session at Oak & Vine | Templeton Family Photographer

One of my favorite things about photographing extended families in Paso Robles Wine Country is that these sessions often happen when everyone has traveled from different places to simply spend time together. With grandparents, grown children, spouses, and grandchildren all in one place, a family getaway becomes the perfect opportunity to create photographs that may become even more meaningful as the years go by.

I recently had the pleasure of photographing this wonderful extended family during their stay at Oak & Vine Vineyard Estate in Templeton, just minutes from Paso Robles. Surrounded by beautiful oak trees and the relaxed landscape of wine country, it was an ideal setting for a multigenerational family portrait session.

Family Portraits at an Oak & Vine Vacation Rental

One of the things I love about photographing families at their vacation rental is how easy it makes the experience. There’s no need to load everyone into multiple cars and travel to a separate portrait location. Instead, I come to you and we make use of the beautiful surroundings that are already part of your family’s time together.

Oak & Vine works especially well for this. With two vacation homes surrounded by mature oaks, vineyard views and plenty of outdoor space, there were so many beautiful areas right around the property for us to use. The setting feels distinctly Central Coast: beautiful California oaks, warm evening light and enough space to photograph a large family without losing the relaxed feeling that makes these sessions so enjoyable.

The Entire Family—and the Smaller Families Too

Whenever I’m photographing an extended family, we always begin with the photographs that brought everyone together in the first place: the entire family. But that’s only part of the session. One of the questions I’m frequently asked is whether I’ll also photograph the individual families, grandparents with grandchildren, couples and other combinations. Absolutely. I consider those photographs an important part of every extended-family session. Once we have everyone together, we work our way through the smaller family groups so everyone goes home with photographs that are meaningful specifically to them.

Those photographs have a way of becoming more valuable with time. What begins as a portrait during a family vacation can eventually become a wonderful record of grandparents, parents and grandchildren at one particular moment in their family’s story.

We photograph the important combinations, but we also have fun with it. Not every photograph needs everyone standing perfectly in a row looking directly at the camera.

Those smaller groupings also give everyone a little breathing room throughout the session and create much more variety in the finished gallery.

A Beautiful Place for Families to Gather in Templeton

Oak & Vine is a particularly fitting location for extended families visiting the area. The estate’s two vacation homes can accommodate groups of different sizes—the Garden House accommodates up to 12 guests and the larger Vineyard House up to 21—making the property especially suited to families gathering together in wine country.

For me as a photographer, though, what really stands out is the setting itself. The mature oaks, open landscape and late-day Central Coast light provide the kind of natural backdrop I love for family portraits.

And when the session is happening right where everyone is staying, there’s something especially nice about knowing these photographs will always be connected to the place where the family spent this time together.

Planning an Extended Family Portrait Session in Paso Robles or Templeton?

If you’re planning a family reunion or staying at a vacation rental in Paso Robles, Templeton, or elsewhere on California’s Central Coast, I’d love to photograph your family while everyone is together.

I regularly photograph extended and multigenerational families at private homes, vineyard estates, Airbnbs and vacation rentals throughout Paso Robles Wine Country. My goal is to make the experience relaxed and enjoyable while creating a collection of photographs that reflects everyone who made the trip special.

You can learn more about my Extended & Multi-Generational Family Sessions on my Investment & FAQ page, or simply contact me to tell me a little about your family and where you’ll be staying.

A Beautiful Extended Family Portrait Session at Beginnings Ranch & Vineyard | Paso Robles Family Photographer

Beginnings Ranch & Vineyard, a luxury vacation rental in Paso Robles wine country and the beautiful setting for this extended family portrait session.

There’s Something Special About Bringing the Whole Family Together in Paso Robles Wine Country

As an extended family photographer in Paso Robles, I have the privilege of photographing wonderful families visiting Paso Robles from all over California. I often photograph families from across the country as well. As an extended family photographer in Paso Robles, I get to witness so many special moments. While everyone comes for different reasons, many share one thing in common. They’re gathering together for a long-awaited family reunion at a beautiful vacation rental in the heart of wine country.

There’s something incredibly meaningful about having grandparents, parents, children, and grandchildren all under one roof. These weekends are filled with laughter, shared meals, stories around the dinner table, and afternoons by the pool. As a result, you get memories that will be talked about for years to come.

That’s exactly what made this recent session at Beginnings Ranch & Vineyard so special.

Nestled among the rolling hills of Paso Robles wine country, Beginnings Ranch & Vineyard provides an absolutely breathtaking setting for families looking to reconnect, relax, and celebrate being together. With its stunning architecture, beautifully landscaped grounds, and vineyard surroundings, it was the perfect backdrop for capturing memories that will last a lifetime. The soft morning light complemented the beautiful surroundings and created a bright, timeless look throughout the session.

As a Paso Robles family photographer, sessions like this have become some of my absolute favorites. Over the years I’ve developed a niche photographing extended families staying at luxury Airbnb and VRBO vacation rentals throughout Paso Robles, Templeton, and the surrounding North County communities. Consequently, the relaxed atmosphere creates genuine smiles, authentic interactions, and portraits that simply can’t be recreated in a traditional studio setting.

Why Vacation Rentals Have Become My Favorite Place for Family Portraits

One reason I enjoy photographing extended families at vacation rentals is that everyone is already where they want to be. Children stay relaxed, and grandparents don’t have to travel between locations. The session naturally unfolds at the pace of the family’s vacation. It’s one of the reasons Beginnings Ranch was such a perfect setting for this session.

For this wonderful family, Beginnings Ranch & Vineyard offered everything we could have hoped for. Beautiful oak trees, colorful gardens, and winding pathways were just a short walk away. Elegant landscaping and countless portrait locations were similarly accessible, allowing us to create a gallery filled with variety without ever leaving the property.

Questions About Hiring an Extended Family Photographer in Paso Robles

One of the most common questions I hear from families planning an extended family portrait session is:
“Since you’re photographing our entire extended family, can we also have photos taken of each individual family?”
I always smile because my answer is the same.
Absolutely – I encourage it.

One family photographed individually during an extended family portrait session in Paso Robles wine country.

When families invest in bringing everyone together—often traveling from several different states—it only makes sense to take advantage of having everyone in one place. After photographing the entire extended family, we naturally transition into the smaller groupings that tell the rest of the family’s story. These include:

Each immediate family
Grandparents with grandchildren
Parents with their children
Adult siblings and couples
Cousins together
Individual portraits

One immediate family photographed during an extended family portrait session at a luxury Paso Robles vacation rental.

One of my favorite parts of every session is knowing that each family goes home with portraits they’ll proudly display for years to come—not only of the entire extended family, but of their own family as well. In fact, many of my clients tell me this is one of the biggest reasons they choose to schedule their portraits while everyone is together in Paso Robles.

Years from now, those individual family portraits often become just as meaningful as the portrait of the entire extended family. They’re the photographs that end up framed on living room walls and shared with future generations. Furthermore, they are treasured long after the vacation has ended.

Two sisters photographed together during their family's Paso Robles wine country reunion.

When everyone is finally together in one beautiful place, it’s the perfect opportunity to preserve not just what your family looked like—but what this season of life felt like. That’s one of the many reasons I genuinely love photographing extended family vacations here in Paso Robles wine country.

Multi-generational family portrait surrounded by beautiful gardens at Beginnings Ranch & Vineyard in Paso Robles wine country.

FROM ONE LOCATION… COUNTLESS PORTRAITS

Once the full family portrait was finished, the session took on a relaxed rhythm of its own.
Because this family included several young children, a morning session was the perfect choice. Everyone was relaxed, the children were full of energy, and the soft natural light beautifully complemented the peaceful surroundings at Beginnings Ranch & Vineyard.

Rather than packing everyone into cars or moving to another location, we simply explored the beautiful grounds of Beginnings Ranch & Vineyard together. Every few minutes we discovered another backdrop that perfectly suited a different family combination.

One quiet corner became the setting for grandparents with their grandchildren.
A shaded oak tree was perfect for individual families.
The gardens created a beautiful backdrop for couples and siblings.
Even a simple walking path turned into one of my favorite spots for candid moments and playful interactions with the children.

Couple portrait beneath the oak trees at Beginnings Ranch & Vineyard during an extended family vacation in Paso Robles.

One of the advantages of photographing families this way is that nobody feels rushed. While one group is being photographed, everyone else has time to relax, visit, enjoy the property, and simply spend time together.

Some of my favorite photographs from the evening weren’t planned at all—they happened naturally between the posed portraits. A grandparent sharing a laugh with a grandchild. Cousins playing together. Parents watching their children explore the gardens.

Those unscripted moments often become just as meaningful as the portraits themselves.

Children enjoying the beautiful grounds at Beginnings Ranch & Vineyard during their Paso Robles family vacation.

WHY THESE PHOTOGRAPHS MATTER MORE WITH EACH PASSING YEAR

As I finished editing this session, I found myself thinking about something that has become more meaningful to me with every passing year. Photographs have a unique way of becoming more valuable over time.

Today, these images celebrate a wonderful family vacation in Paso Robles wine country. But years from now, they’ll remind this family of children who have grown taller, grandparents who brought everyone together, and cousins who spent an unforgettable week laughing and exploring. Additionally, they capture a season of life that can never be recreated exactly the same way again.

That’s why I never think of these sessions as simply taking family pictures. They’re about preserving relationships, memories, and an entire chapter in a family’s story. It was truly a pleasure spending the morning with this wonderful family at Beginnings Ranch & Vineyard. I hope these photographs bring smiles to their faces for many years to come.

If you’re planning your own extended family portrait session in Paso Robles, you’ll find everything you need to know—including pricing, session details, and answers to frequently asked questions—on my pricing and information page.

Because sometimes the most meaningful photograph isn’t the one hanging on your wall today…
It’s the one your grandchildren will cherish years from now.

Family celebrating together from the balcony of Beginnings Ranch & Vineyard during their Paso Robles family reunion.

The Last Hurrah: Why Your Senior Session Needs a Family Portrait

High school senior walking along the tide at Moonstone Beach in Cambria, California, during a sunset portrait session.

There is a unique energy that comes with a high school graduation. It’s a season of “lasts” and “firsts”—the last few months under one roof before the first big steps into adulthood. While the spotlight is rightfully on the graduate, I’ve found that these sessions are often just as meaningful for the parents.

Recently, I had the pleasure of capturing this milestone along Moonstone Drive in Cambria. While I spend a great deal of my time shooting lifestyle sessions near the Morro Bay Rock or along the pier in Cayucos, there is something undeniably special about the rugged, rocky coastline of Cambria for a senior portrait. As we moved from the dramatic cliffs to the shoreline, we did something I’m now encouraging all my clients to do: we took ten minutes at the end of the session to bring the whole family into the frame.

Whether we are exploring the tide pools in Cayucos, the iconic vistas of Morro Bay, or the hidden coves of Cambria, those final few minutes allow us to capture the emotional core of this transition.

Senior girl posing against the rugged rock formations and coastal cliffs of Moonstone Drive in Cambria.

Relaxed senior graduation portrait of a girl sitting on the sand at Moonstone Beach during golden hour.

Lifestyle graduation photography featuring a senior sitting on a weathered cypress log along the Cambria coastline.

Classic graduation portrait of a senior in a white cap and gown on a wooden bridge at Moonstone Beach, Cambria.

Wide-angle environmental senior portrait featuring a graduate in her gown standing on the bluffs overlooking the Pacific Ocean in Cambria.

Full family portrait session on the beach at Moonstone Drive in Cambria, CA, during a senior milestone session.

Candid moment of a mother hugging her daughters during a family sunset photo session on the Central Coast.

Family of four posing for a professional portrait under the Monterey cypress trees on Moonstone Drive in Cambria.

Ready to book your own Central Coast milestone? View my Cayucos & Morro Bay Portrait Gallery here. Note: I now offer a limited 10-minute family add-on for all senior commissions. Mention this post when booking for details.

Relaxed Paso Robles Family Portraits: On-Site at Your Airbnb or Vacation Rental

You planned this trip to slow down, reconnect, and actually enjoy being together. If you are looking for a Paso Robles family portrait photographer to capture these moments in a relaxed setting, the last thing you want is to load everyone into cars, fight traffic, hunt for parking, and rush through a photo session in a crowded public spot. Choosing the right family portrait photographer can make all the difference for your experience.

That’s why I specialize in on‑site family portrait sessions at your Airbnb, vacation rental, or vineyard estate in Paso Robles and across the Central Coast. I come to you, work with the natural light on your property, and create relaxed, authentic family photos that reflect the pace and connection of your vacation.

Multi-generational family portrait under an oak tree at a Templeton Airbnb

Why On‑Site Family Portraits Are the Easiest Way to Get Great Photos

Vacation time is limited. Coordinating a traditional photo shoot often turns into a logistical headache—especially with kids, grandparents, or large groups.

On‑site sessions remove the friction.

Instead of:

Coordinating transportation for multiple families
Rushing kids out the door in uncomfortable outfits
Fighting for space at busy beaches or wineries

You get:

A calm, familiar environment
Flexible pacing that works with nap schedules and mobility needs
Natural interactions that don’t feel staged or forced

Parents can relax. Kids settle faster. Grandparents stay comfortable. And the photos reflect that.

Candid family photography at a coastal vacation cottage in Cayucos, California

Perfect for Airbnb, Vacation Rental, & Vineyard Estate Stays

Paso Robles and the surrounding Central Coast offer some of the most beautiful private properties in California—rolling hills, oak trees, vineyards, wrap‑around porches, fire pits, and coastal views.

Your rental is your family’s home for this trip. Before shooting, I walk the property to study the light and find spots that match your family’s energy

Whether you’re staying at:

A vineyard estate in Paso Robles
A quiet rural property in Templeton
A coastal cottage in Cayucos
…the setting becomes part of your story—not a generic photo location.

Multigenerational photo at a Paso Robles vacation rental during a with oak tree in background

Serving Paso Robles, Templeton, Cayucos & the Central Coast

Each Central Coast location brings a different look and feel, and I photograph with that in mind.

Paso Robles: Golden hills, oak‑studded landscapes, and vineyard textures create warm, timeless images.

Templeton Quiet, rural charm with open land, tall grasses, and classic Central Coast scenery—ideal for multi‑generational and legacy portraits.

Cayucos Soft coastal light, ocean air, and muted tones that feel calm, airy, and effortless.

Your gallery should look like where you stayed—not like it could have been taken anywhere.

Young family and dog at an airbnb in Paso Robles

Golden Hour Sessions for Natural, Flattering Light

Most sessions are scheduled during golden hour, the last hour before sunset. This is when Central Coast light is at its best—warm, directional, and forgiving.

Golden hour allows us to capture a balanced mix of images:

Classic family portraits (everyone together)
Individual photos of children
Couples portraits for parents
Natural, candid moments between generations

I provide gentle guidance so you never feel awkward, but I leave space for real interactions to unfold. The goal isn’t perfection—it’s connection.

Extended family photography at a coastal vacation cottage in Cayucos, California.

Ideal for Multi‑Generational Family Gatherings

Many of my on‑site sessions are booked by families traveling together—grandparents, adult siblings, and kids all under one roof.

Photographing families at their rental makes everything easier:

Fewer physical demands for older family members
Familiar spaces for young children
No pressure to rush or perform
Rental properties often have better “private” views than public wineries, where you’d have to edit out other tourists.

Some of the most meaningful images happen on a porch, under an oak tree, or around a fire pit—places where your family is already spending time together.

Prefer the coast? You can also see how I photograph a multigenerational family session in Morro Bay, using the dunes, beach and Morro Rock for a completely different Central Coast setting.

What to Wear & How to Prepare (Simple Guidance)

I keep preparation straightforward so it doesn’t add stress to your trip.
Coordinate, Don’t Match
Choose a loose color palette (earth tones, soft blues, creams) and let everyone dress comfortably within it.
Use the Property
You chose your rental for a reason. Architectural details, outdoor spaces, and natural textures add depth to your photos.
Timing Matters
Paso Robles evenings stay warm; Cayucos cools quickly after sunset. I help determine the ideal start time based on location and season.
Local Pro-Tip
Don’t forget that even if the day is hot in Paso Robles, the temperature drops fast once the sun dips behind the hills. I always recommend having a stylish knit sweater or a denim jacket nearby for the kids—it looks great in photos and keeps the smiles genuine when the breeze picks up

Extended family photo at hilltop location in Paso Robles by David Pascolla

Frequently Asked Questions About On-Site Family Photography

Can you take family photos at our Airbnb or vacation rental in Paso Robles?
Yes. I specialize in on-site family photography at Airbnb properties, private vacation rentals, and vineyard estates throughout Paso Robles and the Central Coast. I keep a low profile and use minimal gear to ensure we respect the host’s space—it’s just me and my camera, making it no different than you taking your own vacation photos, just with a professional result.

What is the best time of day for family photos in Paso Robles?
The best time for family photos in Paso Robles is during golden hour — the final hour before sunset. This light is soft, warm, and flattering, especially in vineyard and hilltop settings. Summer sessions begin later in the evening, while spring and fall sessions start earlier.

How far in advance should we book a vacation rental photo session?
For peak seasons (late spring through fall and wine harvest season), I recommend booking 3–6 weeks in advance. Golden hour availability is limited to one session per evening, so earlier inquiries give you the best scheduling options.

Do you photograph large or multi-generational family groups?
Yes. On-site sessions are ideal for multi-generational families because they reduce transportation challenges and allow grandparents and young children to stay comfortable. I photograph full group portraits, smaller family units, couples, and candid interactions during the same session.

What if our rental property has limited outdoor space?
Even smaller properties can work beautifully. At the beginning of your session, I walk the space to identify the best light and background options. If appropriate, we can also incorporate nearby approved outdoor areas within walking distance.

What should we wear for our Paso Robles family photo session?
Coordinate outfits within a soft, complementary color palette rather than matching exactly. Earth tones, muted blues, creams, and soft greens photograph especially well against Paso Robles hills, vineyard rows, and coastal settings. I provide simple wardrobe guidance after booking.

How long does an on-site family photography session last?
Most sessions last between 60 and 90 minutes. This gives us time for full family portraits, individual combinations, children’s photos, couples portraits, and natural candid moments without feeling rushed.

Do Airbnb owners need to approve the session?
For personal family portraits without large lighting setups or commercial production equipment, most Airbnb hosts do not require special permits. However, it’s always wise to review your rental policies. My sessions are low-impact and designed to respect the property.

Booking Your Paso Robles On‑Site Family Photography Session

Most families book their session shortly after confirming their vacation dates. Golden hour availability is typically one session per evening.

If you’re planning a Central Coast vacation and want family photos that feel relaxed, meaningful, and true to your experience, I recommend reaching out a few weeks in advance.

“David immediately put our family at ease. We were staying at a Airbnb in Templeton and didn’t want to leave the property. He found incredible light under an old oak tree, and the photos were absolutely beautiful.”
— The Miller Family

Multigenerational family at an Airbnb over looking the hills of Paso Robles

Ready to Book Your Session?

See how other families have captured their Central Coast getaway in my Portfolio
Contact Me to Book Your Session

Serving Paso Robles, Templeton, Atascadero, Cayucos, Cambria, and the surrounding Central Coast areas.

Templeton Family Portraits
A Perfect Blend of Beauty and Connection

Multi generational family photo, by David Pascolla Photography

There’s something truly special about photographing families in Templeton, California—a town that perfectly blends rustic charm with natural beauty. I recently had the joy of capturing an extended family portrait session here, filled with laughter, connection, and warm golden light. Like many of my recent clients, this family was visiting from out of town and staying at a peaceful Airbnb nestled in the Templeton countryside. With rolling hills, vineyard views, and serene open spaces, it provided the perfect backdrop for creating timeless family portraits.

Why Choose Templeton for Your Family Portraits?

If you’re considering Templeton for your family portraits, you’re in for a treat. This charming small town, tucked between Paso Robles and Atascadero, offers a beautiful mix of rustic elegance and relaxed, small-town warmth. From quiet oak-lined roads to scenic vineyard vistas and quaint downtown streets, Templeton provides a variety of natural settings that suit every family’s unique style.

Whether you’re a local or planning a vacation in the area, a family portrait session in Templeton promises stunning results and a laid-back experience you’ll enjoy as much as the photos themselves.

Planning Your Templeton Family Portrait Session

Choose the Right Location

Templeton offers diverse settings for your family portraits, from golden hillside fields to peaceful vineyards and rustic barns. Talk with your Templeton family photographer about locations that reflect your family’s personality and vision.

Consider the Timing

Golden hour—either early morning or just before sunset—is ideal for soft, flattering light. But more importantly, choose a time when your family is relaxed and at ease.

What to Wear

Opt for clothing that complements each other without being overly matched. Soft neutrals, earthy tones, or coordinated palettes work beautifully against Templeton’s natural backdrop and help keep the focus on your family’s connection.

FAQs About Family Portraits in Templeton

Q: How far in advance should we book our session?
A: It’s best to book at least 2–3 weeks in advance, especially during spring and fall when demand is high.

Q: Can we include our pets in the portraits?
A: Absolutely! Many outdoor locations in Templeton are pet-friendly, but be sure to check with your photographer and any property owners ahead of time.

Q: Are there indoor locations available in case of bad weather?
A: Yes, some venues and local businesses in Templeton offer indoor spaces as a backup. Be sure to discuss this option during your session planning.

Let Templeton Inspire Your Next Family Portrait

Choosing Templeton for your family portraits means more than just beautiful photos—it’s about creating a memorable experience in a location that brings out the best in every family. Whether you’re celebrating a milestone or simply want to document this season of life, Templeton’s natural beauty and quiet charm set the perfect stage.

Ready to book your Templeton family portrait session?
Contact us here as we’d love to help you create lasting memories in the heart of California’s Central Coast.

Family photoswith grandparents and grandchildren, by David Pascolla Photography

Templeton family photos, by David Pascolla

Templeton family portraits, by David Pascolla

Siblings portraits in Templeton, CA. by David Pascolla

Siblings photos in Templeton, CA. by David Pascolla

Portrait of couple in Templeton, CA. by David Pascolla

Grandparents family photo in Templeton, by David Pascolla

Best Family Portrait Locations in Paso Robles

After more than 25 years photographing families on California’s Central Coast, I’ve learned that the best location for family portraits isn’t always the most obvious one. In Paso Robles, a beautiful setting might be a vineyard at golden hour, a quiet grove of oak trees, a rustic ranch property, or simply the vacation home where several generations of a family have gathered for the weekend.

Paso Robles offers an incredible variety of settings for family photography, from rolling vineyards and oak-covered hills to beautiful private estates and vacation rentals. The right location depends not only on how it looks, but also on the size of your family, the ages of everyone involved, accessibility, privacy, and—perhaps most importantly—the light.

Extended family portrait beneath a majestic oak tree in Paso Robles, California

What Makes a Great Paso Robles Family Portrait Location?

When helping families choose a location, these are some of the things I consider:

Natural beauty and Paso Robles character. Vineyards, oak trees, rolling hills and rustic properties immediately give photographs a sense of place without overwhelming the people in them.

Accessibility. This becomes especially important with extended families that may include grandparents, very young children or anyone with limited mobility. A gorgeous location isn’t much help if getting everyone there is difficult.

Beautiful light. Early morning and the hour or so before sunset generally provide the softest and most flattering light. I often choose the exact area we’ll photograph based as much on the direction of the light as the scenery itself.

Privacy and room to move. A little space allows families to relax, particularly when we’re photographing a larger group and then breaking that group into smaller combinations—grandparents with grandchildren, individual families, couples, siblings and children.

Vineyards and Wine Country

It’s hard to think about Paso Robles without thinking about wine country. Vineyards, oak-covered hills and open countryside can provide a beautiful backdrop for family portraits, particularly during the softer light of early morning or evening.
One thing families don’t always realize is that photography policies vary from winery to winery. Some properties welcome professional photography while others restrict it, require permission or limit access to guests. Winery hours can also make a true golden-hour session difficult, particularly during the summer when sunset occurs well after many tasting rooms have closed.
For those reasons, I always recommend confirming access before planning a session at a particular winery.

Family portrait in a Paso Robles vineyard during autumn

Allegretto Vineyard Resort

For families staying at the Allegretto Vineyard Resort, the property offers a very different look from the surrounding countryside. Its European-inspired architecture, courtyards, gardens and vineyard areas provide a variety of backgrounds within a relatively small area.

Professional portrait photography on the property is generally intended for guests, so families considering the Allegretto should confirm the resort’s current photography policies when planning their session.

Vacation Rentals and Private Estates

Over the past several years, vacation rentals have become some of my favorite places to photograph families in Paso Robles—especially extended and multigenerational families.

Many families come to Paso Robles for a birthday, anniversary, wedding weekend or simply an opportunity to have several generations together in one place. Often they’ve rented a large home, vineyard estate or ranch property for the occasion. Instead of packing everyone into several cars and traveling to another location, we can frequently create the entire portrait session right where the family is staying.

And some of these properties are spectacular.

Vineyard views, oak trees, open fields, beautiful architecture, landscaped grounds and wonderful evening light can give us several completely different looks without ever leaving the property.

There is another advantage that I think is just as important: everyone is comfortable. Children have room to be themselves, grandparents don’t have to travel to another location, and the family isn’t surrounded by tourists or other photographers.

For extended-family sessions, I typically photograph much more than one large group portrait. We’ll make time for the entire family together, but also individual families, grandparents with grandchildren, couples, siblings and other smaller combinations. Having a private property with room to work makes that process relaxed and enjoyable.

One recent extended-family session at Beginnings Ranch & Vineyard is a great example of how well a Paso Robles vacation rental can work for family portraits.

You can also view my family portrait session options and pricing.

golden hour family portraits in paso robles

Oak Groves, Ranches and the Paso Robles Countryside

Some of my favorite portrait locations aren’t named destinations at all.

Paso Robles is filled with oak groves, ranch properties, rustic barns, open fields and rolling hills. Depending on the season, the landscape can range from lush green hills in winter and spring to the warm golden grasses that are so characteristic of the Central Coast later in the year.

These quieter locations can be especially beautiful for families who want their photographs to feel natural and timeless rather than tied to a particular tourist destination.

Extended family portrait session during golden hour in Paso Robles, California

What About Downtown Paso Robles?

Downtown can work beautifully for a smaller family looking for something different from the traditional wine-country setting. Tree-lined streets, historic buildings and areas surrounding Downtown City Park can provide a more casual, architectural feel.

For larger extended families, however, I generally prefer locations with more room, fewer distractions and greater flexibility—one reason private estates and vacation rentals work so well.

Locations Just Outside Paso Robles

There are also beautiful portrait possibilities throughout North San Luis Obispo County. Templeton, Atascadero and San Miguel each offer their own mix of oak-covered countryside, ranches, vineyards and historic settings.

Mission San Miguel Arcángel, north of Paso Robles, can provide a distinctive backdrop with its historic Spanish architecture. As with any privately managed or historic property, access and professional-photography policies should always be confirmed before scheduling a session.

Oak & Vine in Templeton is one example of a vacation rental where the property itself became a beautiful setting for an extended-family session.

Extended family portrait beneath the oak trees at Oak & Vine in Templeton, California

Choosing the Right Location for Your Family

Ultimately, I don’t believe there is one “best” family portrait location in Paso Robles.

The best location is the one that fits your family.

For a couple and their children, that might be a vineyard at sunset. For a multigenerational family of 15 or 20 people, the beautiful vacation home where everyone is already staying may be a much better choice.

When families contact me, I’m always happy to look at the property where they’re staying or talk through other location possibilities. Often a few photographs of a vacation rental are enough for me to determine whether it has the light, space and backgrounds we’ll need.

Paso Robles Family Photography

My approach to family photography is relaxed and natural. I’ll give direction when it’s helpful, but I also want families to have room to interact, laugh and simply be themselves.

My goal isn’t only to create a beautiful photograph of everyone looking at the camera. It’s to capture the smaller relationships within the family as well—the grandparents and grandchildren, siblings, couples and individual families that make the larger family what it is.

If you’re planning a family gathering in Paso Robles or elsewhere on California’s Central Coast, I’d love to hear what you’re planning.

David Pascolla is a Paso Robles family portrait photographer with more than 25 years of experience photographing families on California’s Central Coast. He specializes in relaxed, natural family portraits, including extended and multigenerational families gathering at Paso Robles vacation rentals, vineyard estates and other beautiful Central Coast locations. Reach out to learn more or plan your family portrait session.

San Luis Obispo Urban Family Portrait Session
David Pascolla Photography

Ever since I photographed Bonnie and Beau’s Tiber Canyon wedding several years back, I’ve had the honor of photographing their growing family every year since then. This year they chose an urban theme in downtown San Luis Obispo for their family portraits. They were drawn to the Railroad District and the adjacent Railroad Square building which was the perfect backdrop for what they had envisioned. The building in San Luis Obispo is a gem for urban portraits! Its architecture blends rustic charm with a touch of history, offering a variety of backdrops. The mix of brick walls, vintage signage, and the overall industrial vibe makes it a versatile spot for capturing both classic and contemporary urban looks. From there we moved on to the Jennifer Street bridge which is a stunning rust colored steel bridge that spans the railroad tracks. The bridge is always a favorite for family portraits since it lends itself to the contemporary urban feel of the railroad district with design element of ‘leading lines’ and the creative perspective that is created from the bridge’s construction.

When desired I always welcome the family dog to tag along. For Bonnie and Beau and their three kiddos, this was a welcome treat since their dog is an important part of their family. San Luis Obispo family portraits often include pets, making the sessions even more special. On a few of the settings ‘black and white’ was the perfect option since it complemented the urban elements along with their clothing options.

Whether you prefer a casual urban vibe or more of a traditional setting, the flexibility of locations throughout downtown SLO ensures that your family’s personality shines through. A few of my other favorite locations are the following:

The San Luis Obispo Mission with with its rustic adobe walls, serene courtyard and peaceful garden area in the back of the Mission itself. It’s an ideal spot for San Luis Obispo family portraits.
The San Luis Creek which meanders through the downtown area.
The tree-lined streets, alleyways and storefronts. Just about every corner offers a unique setting for creating memorable San Luis Obispo family portraits.

As a bonus, in early May the seasonal bloom happens along with its splash of natural color and beauty, enhancing the visual appeal for photographs. One of my favorites in early Spring is the sweet aroma of Jasmine that wafts throughout downtown, adding a sensory layer to the San Luis Obispo family portraits experience.

If you’re thinking about having your family portraits done in downtown SLO or anywhere on the Central Coast reach out to schedule your session.

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Paso Robles Extended Family Portraits
Timeless Family Photos

An Extended Family Portrait Session in heart of the Central Coast

Capturing family portraits that celebrate love and connection between grandparents, parents and children is always a rewarding experience. Recently I met up with this precious family at their Airbnb overlooking the hills of Paso Robles. The afternoon was drenched in warm light as everyone was so easy to work with. I’m always impressed when extended families take the time and effort to gather for portrait sessions like this one. The outcome are photographs that serve as reminder of their love and connection between grandparents, parents and children

Paso Robles

The Central Coast of California, especially places like Paso Robles, is the perfect setting for your family portraits for several reasons:

Photographic Considerations: Lighting – You’ve probably noticed ‘golden hour’ light and how it can enhances the landscape and particularly photos. The Central Coast, specifically the North County offers plenty of opportunities for capturing this magical light. Even though I enjoy family photo sessions on the coast, I find the North County and Paso Robles has bright sunshine most of the year and you don’t have to contend with the coastal fog and clouds of the coast. With a stunning variety of backdrops that enhance the beauty of the rolling hills, vineyards, wide open skies and quiet backdrops their is never a shortage of scenic diversity for photography. See more examples of my Central Coast family shoots here.

Accessibility: Paso Robles and the Central Coast are easily accessible from major cities like Los Angeles and San Francisco, making it convenient for families traveling from different places to gather for a portrait session.

Wine lovers: With more than 200 Wineries ranging from small, family-owned vineyards to large-scale operations, there’s a vast selection of tasting rooms that cater to all types of wine lovers. The rolling hills, sprawling vineyards, and beautiful views make wine tasting in Paso Robles not just about the wine but also about the whole experience. It’s a popular destination for couples, groups, and even for events like weddings and family gatherings—making it a great backdrop for photography, too. View one of my Elopement weddings here.

Our Approach to Extended Family Portraits

At David Pascolla Photography, we specialize in capturing the unique dynamics and connections within multigenerational families. Our approach combines a blend of posed portraits and candid moments, ensuring that we capture the authentic essence of your family. We believe in creating a comfortable, relaxed and enjoyable atmosphere, allowing your family to relax and be themselves, resulting in natural and heartfelt photographs.

FAQs About Extended Family Portraits in Paso Robles

What is the best time of day for a family photo session in Paso Robles? Choosing the right time of day can significantly impact the quality of your photos. We recommend scheduling your session during the golden hour, a few hours after sunrise for AM shoots or an hour or so prior to sunset, when the natural light is warm, soft and flattering.

How should we prepare for our family photo session? To make the most of your session, coordinate outfits that complement each other without being too ‘matchy.’ Opt for comfortable clothing that reflects your family’s style and personality. It’s also a good idea to discuss any specific poses or groupings you have in mind with your photographer beforehand.

What locations do you recommend for extended family portraits in Paso Robles? There’s a wealth of beautiful locations throughout Paso Robles and the surrounding North County. Some of my favorites are simply at the venue or rental home in which you are staying at. If you happen to be staying at the Allegretto Hotel, (a local favorite of mine), you can take advantage of the Tuscan-inspired setting, the landscaped garden areas and all the art and architecture. Note. You need to be a guest at the Resort in order to do photography. Downtown Paso is always a great place with it’s charming park along with the historic architecture and it’s urban backdrop. Vineyards and wineries are always a wonderful settings with rows of grapevines, rustic buildings and scenic landscaping. Note. Call in advance to see if they are open to photo shoots.

At David Pascolla Photography, we’re dedicated to preserving your family’s legacy with timeless and meaningful portraits. Contact us today to schedule your session and let us help you capture moments that will be cherished for generations to come.

Natural light family portrait - Paso Robles

Multi generational portraits paso robles

Top Five Central Coast Beach Locations for Family Portraits

Golden hour family portrait at Avila beach

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

Before highlighting some the Central Coast’s best beach locations 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.

mulit generations family photo at pismo beach monarch grove

family photo at pismo beach monarch grove

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 Pismo beach family photo sessions here.

Pismo beach caves engagement photos at low tide

husband and wife photo in pismo beach at low tide

Avila Cove | Avila Beach

family photos at avila beach during golden hour and low tide

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 beach family photo sessions.

Morro Bay | Morro Rock

Maternity photo in the san dunes with morro rock in background

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.

Want to see what a complete session here looks like? Take a look at this recent extended family portrait session in Morro Bay, photographed among the dunes and along the beach with Morro Rock in the background.

Morro bay family photos during golden hour and low tide

Cayucos Beach | Cayucos

Cayucos beach large group family portait with morro rock in background

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 Cayucos family sessions here.

Family portraits under the cayucos pier at golden hour

Large group family portrait at cayucos beach

David Pascolla is a Paso Robles based family portrait photographer. My desire with each family is to capture the real moments as they happen and give soft direction as needed. My work has been described as relaxed, fun, colorful and joyful. As your photographer my goal is to let ‘you be you’ and capture the love and connection between each family member. I also enjoy photographing multigenerational families anywhere on the Central Coast. Reach out to learn more and book your session.