Lisa Winner is an award-winning documentary and portrait photographer based in Alameda, CA. Specializing in family and storytelling, Lisa’s work intricately explores the nuances of humanity, the ever-changing facets of nature, and the authentic narratives embedded in relationships. This is a sponsored post in which Lisa has shared her favorite spots to photograph families and why she has landed on these.
Best East Bay Spots for Family Photo Sessions
Shoreline Park in Alameda
I love photographing at Shoreline Park in Alameda. It’s located on the outer edge of Bay Farm Island and offers stunning views of the San Francisco skyline without the crowds. The tall grass reeds along the shore are perfect for kids to play with and make for great candid shots. A hidden gem in the East Bay, I highly recommend a visit to Shoreline Park for your next family session.
Encinal Beach/Alameda Point Shoreline
Another hidden gem within Alameda awaits you at the shoreline along Alameda Point, situated on the old Navy Base. A small grove of trees, conveniently located beside a parking lot, provides both easy access and a tranquil park-like setting. Enjoy bay views as your backdrop or explore the area near the Hornet and other large ships for a more nautical scene. Additionally, find an abandoned building adorned with graffiti and other urban elements, offering various vantage points. Whether you prefer bay vistas or an urban atmosphere, this location has it all.
The backside of Oakland Zoo (Knowland Park)
A hidden trail behind the Oakland Zoo ascends from Edgemont Way to a hilltop revealing panoramic views of the entire San Francisco Bay. As a bonus, you’ll be right next to the Bear enclosure and may be able to catch a peek at these furry friends. On clear days, the view extends all the way to the coast. The hike to get there requires comfortable shoes, but the breathtaking views make it entirely worthwhile, I promise.
Dracena Park, Piedmont
I’m always drawn to Dracena Park in Oakland for autumn photos. Once a quarry, now the park is a hidden gem tucked away in a neighborhood within the Piedmont City limits. Deep within the quarry, you’ll now find a grassy field and a myriad of deciduous trees that show off their talents in the fall. You’ll have to catch the timing right – there’s about a two-week period where the leaves are at their full color. But when you do, there is no better show in town.
Torpedo Wharf, San Francisco
If you want the Golden Gate Bridge as your backdrop, head over to Torpedo Wharf. Located at the end of Chrissy Field (map to the Warming Hut for the best directions), a large parking lot is waiting for you that is rarely full. From there, walk past the Warming Hut (which sells drinks and snacks in case little (or big) ones get fussy), and onto the pier. There, you’ll be directly under the Golden Gate Bridge and also have views of Chrissy Field and the San Francisco Skyline. The perfect place for 180-degree views of the Bay.
What families are saying about Lisa
Lisa shot my most recent family photos and I can’t explain how much I love them! She captured my family perfectly and I’ll treasure these pictures forever.
Myah Patterson
Lisa is an amazing photographer and she was a joy to work with. She did an incredible job of making my whole family feel comfortable with the camera (including my 3 young boys) and she wasn’t at all invasive. We were able to truly enjoy our day exploring San Francisco without feeling like we were being documented. Her photos are hands down the best we have of our family and we will treasure them forever.
-Liane Lee
Special Offer for {510} Families Readers
Sign up for Lisa’s newsletter and name {510} Families as your referral source to receive a $300 product credit during your next custom photo shoot. Offer good through 2024. Details here >
Thanks to Lisa for sharing her favorite East Bay photography locations with us!
