We are so blessed to have a lot of beautiful and large open and wild spaces here in Southern California. As a lifestyle family and maternity photographer a part of my creative process is to use the dramatic backdrop of nature to enhance and add drama and interest to your images, whether it’s a session at El Matador State Beach in Malibu or a rolling meadow in Ojai. When you book a session with me we’ll talk about where we’ll do the photo shoot as a part of our preparation. Some families like to have their sessions in their homes, and I love that, because it’s important for everyone to feel comfortable. However if you choose to venture outdoors and depending where you are located these are some of my favorite outdoor locations.
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Ventura River Preserve, Ojai.
This location is spectacular, especially at golden hour. It has so much space and every family I bring there is left feeling content and peaceful because of the surrounding beauty. Depending on the time of year there is a chance of water in the river, which makes for fun family photo sessions!
Golden Hour Family Session at the water hole, in the Ventura River Preserve.
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Ojai Meadow Preserve.
This is another gem of a location in Ojai and it’s close to Meiners Oaks, Oakview and Downtown. I usually have families park on W. Lomita and we take a 5 minute walk together to the shade and beauty of the eucalyptus trees. If you are lucky you might see some owl nests and even some baby owls peering down at you with big blinking round eyes!
Sweet moment of play at the Ojai Meadow Preserve.
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Douglas Family Preserve, Santa Barbara.
This is such a special place to spend time with family and get some family portraits! The Douglas Family Preserve has so many trails to explore under tall trees and it has truly spectacular ocean views.
Taking in the views from the Douglas Family Preserve.
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Carpinteria Bluffs, Carpinteria
I love the Carpinteria Bluffs! It has stunning eucalyptus trees for filtering the sunshine and then a beautiful sprawling meadow for dramatic shots as the sun sinks below the horizon. It also has incredible ocean views and is super easy to access off the 101.
Maternity Portrait Session, Golden Hour at Carpinteria Bluffs.
These are just a few of the locations I like to hold outdoor family and maternity photo sessions. Of course I’m always ready to explore new places, so if there is somewhere special in mind be sure to mention that when we plan your up and coming session!
With love,
Emma
