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.
