Los Angeles is a beautiful city with plenty of photography spots for family photos. We’ve got you covered if you’re looking for a quiet park, an iconic landmark, or a beachside location for a photo shoot. We’ve compiled a list of some of the best photography spots in Los Angeles for family photos. So grab your camera or book a professional photographer and get ready to take some amazing pictures!
Capturing a Great Family Photo
Whether you want a special photo to hang on the wall or you’re making a holiday card to send out, getting a great shot isn’t just about finding the best photo spots. When it comes to kids, the time of day is key. If you have young babies or toddlers, try to line up your photo shoot post-nap to avoid crankiness. Older kids are a little easier, though make sure photos are taken after a mealtime to avoid any hangryness and pack some snacks just in case.
Check out our complete guide to the best family photo ideas for more tips.
The Best Photography Spots in Los Angeles for Family Photos
Griffith Park
With its sprawling land, Griffith Park offers plenty of opportunities for family photos. With over 4,000 acres of space, you can find a quiet spot to snap pictures or explore the park’s many trails and attractions. There are also several lookout points where you can get a great view of the city.
Griffith Observatory
The Griffith Observatory is one of the most popular spots for family photos in Los Angeles. This beautiful Art Deco building is located on the southern slope of Mount Hollywood and offers stunning views of the city. The Observatory grounds are also a great place to take pictures, with plenty of open space and scenic views.
Venice Beach
Venice Beach is a popular spot for family photos, thanks to its iconic boardwalk, street performers, and vibrant atmosphere. There are plenty of things to do in the area, so you can make a day of it. And when you’re ready to take a break from the sun, there are plenty of restaurants and cafes to refuel in.
Venice Canals
The Venice Canal Historic District is the perfect spot if you’re looking for a different kind of Venice experience. These man-made canals were designed to mimic the canals of Venice, Italy, making for a beautiful setting for family photos.
Manhattan Beach Pier
The Manhattan Beach Pier is a classic California spot for family photos. With the ocean in the background and the pier stretching out into the water, it’s a picturesque location for any picture.
Santa Monica Pier
The Santa Monica Pier, home to Pacific Park, is one of the most Instagrammable places on Earth and another great spot for family photos. With its Ferris wheel, carousel, and stunning views of the Pacific Ocean, there’s no shortage of excellent backdrops.
Los Angeles County Museum of Art
The Los Angeles County Museum of Art is great for family photos. The famous street lamps installation, Urban Light, is definitely a fun spot for a photo session. Remember that the museum has rules about photography, and no tripods or selfie sticks are allowed.
Walt Disney Concert Hall
The Walt Disney Concert Hall, designed by Frank Gehry, is a great place to take family photos. Its unique architecture offers a one-of-a-kind setting for some artistic shots.
Getty Center
With its beautiful gardens and architecture, the Getty Center is easily one of the best places to capture stunning shots.
Union Station
With its historical setting and iconic art deco architecture, Union Station is a great place to take family photos. Both the interior, with its sweeping archways, and the exterior, with its rows of swaying palm trees, make for some great “only in LA” shots.
Zuma Beach
The beach is always a perfect Southern California photo spot, with sunny days nearly all year. Zuma Beach is a more expansive beach offering an excellent place to avoid having too many beachgoers in the background.
Huntington Library and Gardens
Encompassing 130 acres, the Huntington Botanical Garden offers plenty of gorgeous flowers and plant life for your next photo shoot.
The Pink Wall on Melrose
The Pink Wall is one of LA’s most popular Instagram spots. Located at Paul Smith’s on Melrose Avenue, the Pink Wall is an excellent spot for some fun and funky photos.
The Los Angeles Arboretum
This historical site was made for taking pictures, from its waterfalls and water lily-filled pools to shady benches and tree groves.
Lake Hollywood Park
Lake Hollywood Park is an excellent spot for family photos with its quiet setting and views of the iconic Hollywood Sign.
Hollywood Bowl
Did you know the Hollywood Bowl is technically a public park, and you can access it anytime during daylight hours? Grab a camera and take some family photos that capture the fun of living in La La Land.
Mulholland Drive
Mulholland Drive is a great spot for family photos. The picturesque roads and city sights make it the perfect place to take some pictures and create lasting memories. Stop at one of the many turnout spots to get a great shot, or head to the Hollywood Bowl overlook for an exceptional view.
Hollywood Walk of Fame
The Hollywood Walk of Fame is an excellent spot for family photos on Hollywood Boulevard. Its iconic Hollywood stars and world-famous setting make it the perfect place to capture some memories.
Downtown Los Angeles
Downtown LA is a wonderful spot for family photos. Its skyscrapers and bustling city streets make it the perfect place to capture some unique images.
Disneyland
What’s more fun than a photo shoot at an amusement park? The Happiest Place on Earth is the perfect backdrop for some iconic shots. Plus, the park already has professional photographers ready to go. Sign up for the Disney PhotoPass, and you’re set for a day of magic and memories.
There are plenty of other great photography spots in Los Angeles, but these are some of our favorites. Share any awesome spots we missed in our Local Anchor Facebook group.
