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A Family Portrait Session | San Luis Obispo Creek

Outdoor family portraits at San Luis Obispo creek with warm backlight.

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

Timeless portrait of a young girl with eyes closed in quiet repose.
Children playing a piano at the Mission plaza in San Luis Obispo.
Young girl playing the piano. San Luis Obispo.

Avila Beach Family Portraits
The Caffee Family

Photographing an Avila beach family portrait session during golden hour is always a memorable experience. The Caffee family were fun-loving, relaxed and reflected a wonderful sense of love and connection. We chose to walk about 10 minutes south of the pier to a somewhat secluded cove that turns a wonderful golden hue right before sunset. It was the perfect spot for Family Portraits Avila.

Golden hour family portrait at Avila beach

Every Fall there is something special about the color of light that reflects off the high cliffs above the cove. Most tourists and summer crowds have left, and there is a wonderful sense of quiet and peacefulness that makes an ideal backdrop for Family Portraits Avila.

I have photographed the Caffee family over the years and always feel the freedom to suggest a variety of poses yet embrace their suggestions as well. The element of mutual trust during a portrait session goes a long way with my family Portrait sessions.

The Central Coast offers an unbeatable backdrop for family portrait sessions, blending natural beauty with a relaxed, inviting atmosphere. With its stunning coastline, rolling hills, and picturesque vineyards, this region provides a variety of landscapes that can suit any family’s unique style. Locations like Avila Beach, Pismo Beach, and Montaña de Oro State Park feature breathtaking ocean views, golden sands, and dramatic cliffs, adding a sense of serenity and timelessness. I love the soft, coastal light, especially during the golden hour, creates a flattering, natural glow, perfect for capturing candid moments between family members.

Inland locations such as the vineyards of Paso Robles or the scenic hills surrounding San Luis Obispo offer rustic charm, where families can be framed by rows of grapevines, oak trees, and wide-open skies. This diversity of landscapes ensures that your session is personalized, providing a range of looks within a short distance.

Beyond the stunning scenery, the Central Coast’s mild, temperate weather makes outdoor shoots comfortable year-round. Whether you’re looking for a casual beach session or a sophisticated vineyard backdrop, the Central Coast is an ideal setting to create beautiful, lasting memories with your family.

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.

Avila beach portrait session during golden hour
Portrait of couple at Avila beach
Brother and sisters portrait - Avila beach
Senior portraits at Avila beach
Father and son portrait at Avila beach
Happy family portrait at Avila beach
Couple at golden hour light at Avila beach
Fun family photo at Avila beach
Sunset and golden hour at Avila beach

Atascadero and Templeton High School
SENIOR PORTRAITS

San Luis Obispo Senior portrait session.

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!

Farr Dentistry Staff Photo Shoot
Atascadero

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.

Farr Dentistry staff photo in Atascadero
Dr. Farr and staff in Atascadero
Cheerful staff at Farr Dentistry in Atascadero
Dental staff photos in Atascadero
Happy staff photos of Farr Dentistry in Atascadero
Farr Dentistry - whimsical staff photo

Cayucos Beach Family Photos

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.

Cayucos beach family photos
Cayucos family beach photos
Cayucos family photo
Cayucos beach family photography
Photo of couple on the beach in Cayucos
Cayucos beach family photography
Couple posing in front of Morro Rock
Father and three sons
Grandparents and granddaughter in Cayucos

San Luis Obispo | Hotel Cerro Photo Shoot
Polk Insurance

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.

Hotel Cerro in San Luis Obispo team photos
Headshots in San Luis Obispo
Professional headshots taken at the Hotel Cerro in San Luis Obispo

Capturing Connections | A Paso Robles Family Portrait Session

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.

large family portraits in paso robles
Paso Robles family photos
fun photo of grandparents
Paso Robles family photos
family portrait in paso robles
Family photo in front of a country home in paso robles

Country inspired family portraits
San Luis Obispo

As a Central Coast family and portrait photographer I’ve had the privilege of photographing families coming together against some of the most picturesque backdrops California has to offer. Recently, I had the pleasure of photographing a beautiful family amidst the rolling hills and fields of golden light of San Luis Obispo’s countryside. I photographed Bonnie and Beau’s wedding at the beautiful Tiber Canyon Ranch over 12 years ago. Ever since they had their first child I’ve been documenting their family every year. It’s a joy to capture all the love of the wedding day and even more of a satisfaction to be a part of the couples growing families along the way.

Each year Bonnie selects a different theme, setting, clothing options, and locations on the Central Coast. For this session we all decided on a charming ranch nestled on the outskirts of San Luis Obispo in the Edna Valley. The expansive fields, majestic oak trees, and even a ranch horse photo bombed our session.

For anyone planning a family portrait session on the Central Coast I believe Bonnie and Beau’s family exemplifies how to have a successful time. Over the years a few things stand out to me. First, they plan well in advance, securing their date and formulating a theme, location, and setting. They’re wonderfully purposeful and intentional, yet flexible and spontaneous for each of our sessions.

Bonnie is wonderful at ordering clothes that match the theme and setting. Even with the work of getting all the kiddos ready and showing up on time, it always proves to be a fun-filled time with a lot of laughter and connection. Interacting naturally and not having unrealistic expectations with children is essential to a successful session, and Bonnie and Beau’s family does this so well.

It’s photographing families like this that remind me why I love what I do. If your looking to document your family’s journey amidst the natural beauty of the Central Coast, I would be honored to capture your story. Contact me to discuss how we can created timeless photographs that reflect the essence of your family.

Rustic family portraits at a ranch in San Luis Obispo
Whimsical family portraits at a ranch in San Luis Obispo
Portrait of young boy taken in San Luis Obispo
Outdoor family portraits in San Luis Obispo
Rustic family portraits taken in San Luis Obispo
Family portraits at a ranch in San Luis Obispo
Young girl and her dog photographed in San Luis Obispo
Family portraits of horse with mother and daughter in San Luis Obispo
Horse by a creek on a ranch in San Luis Obispo
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Paso Robles Elopement | Halter Ranch Winery
David + Naomi

David and Naomi celebrated their love for one another with an intimate elopement wedding at Halter Ranch winery. The day started off with a wild winter storm along with hurricane force winds, heavy downpours, and several impassible roads with tree limbs scattered and downed power lines. Nevertheless, David and Naomi were the consummate troopers with incredible attitudes. They were determined to press through and celebrate their love for one another.

Their ceremony needed to be moved to Halter’s Victorian farmhouse at the last minute due to weather, which proved to be the perfect setting. Even though the rain never stoped we found fantastic locations in the Victorian garden, the underground wine caves, their historic barn, along with several other locations at this incredible Paso Robles winery.

Set against the backdrop of the beautiful Central Coast wine country, Halter Ranch has everything you would ever want for a small intimate elopement, to a large 200+ guest wedding. It’s the perfect blend of rustic elegance and natural beauty. Even with the rain and wind David and Naomi knew just what they wanted.

Margaret, the coordinator at Halter Ranch officiated the ceremony and Timothy, a fun loving Halter Ranch staff member drove us around in a four wheel jeep throughout the oak covered hills and winery grounds. The stormy day unfolded to be an amazing elopement full of life and love with a wonderful couple.

For anyone interested in a private and intimate elopement ceremony Halter Ranch is one of my top choices on the Central Coast. Secluded with a setting ensuring a peaceful and personal experience. They even have an airstrip on the property for those flying in with the personal plane. In fact David and Naomi were going to take advantage of this with their plane, however, due to the crazy weather it didn’t work out. They still made the best of it all and I was honored to be a part of their special day.

Bride and Groom at Halter Ranch in Paso Robles
Bride and groom portraits at Halter Ranch in Paso Robles
Bride and groom portraits at Halter Ranch in Paso Robles
Bride and groom portraits in a barn at Halter Ranch Winery
Halter Ranch Elopement portrait of bride and groom
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