A Golden Hour Family Session at Beresford Park in San Mateo, CA
There’s something extra special about photographing families in places that feel both spacious and cozy—and Beresford Park in San Mateo hits that sweet spot every time. With its wide open lawns, mature trees, and soft afternoon light, it was the perfect setting for this joyful family session.
Why Beresford Park?
Tucked into a quiet residential area, Beresford Park offers a blend of nature and structure that works beautifully for family photos. We had plenty of space to let little 2-year-old B run and play, plus shaded areas for those softer, more intimate moments. Whether it’s toddlers chasing bubbles or Mom and Dad sharing a quiet cuddle on a park bench, the variety here gives us room to create both playful and heartfelt images. Making this location extra special was the fact that the park is around the corner from mom L’s childhood home. Her memories of playing at the park as a child, and now playing with her child there, added an extra layer of intimacy to the photoshoot.
A Session Full of Connection
This session was also extra special because we not only had adorable little B and her mom and dad, but also Grandma M and Uncle A…and their dog, L! I love doing these intergenerational family shoots—they bring an extra level of connection. The more love, the better!
The family came dressed in perfectly coordinated neutrals with earthy accents—soft blues, creams, and light browns—which looked stunning against the golden tones of the park in the early evening. We spent the session wandering the park, stopping for hugs under the big oak trees, and smelling beautiful flowers.
Some of my favorite moments? Chasing bubbles, cuddles with Grandma M, swinging on the swings with Uncle A a piggyback ride that ended in laughter, and a sweet, quiet moment between Mom and little B filtered through the trees. These are the kinds of memories that turn photos into heirlooms.
What to Expect at Beresford Park
If you’re considering a photoshoot here, here’s what you can expect:
Golden hour magic: The light here in the late afternoon/early evening is truly beautiful.
Kid-friendly spaces: There’s room to explore, but it’s contained enough that parents don’t have to worry about little ones wandering off.
Natural backdrops: Lush green trees, wood benches, and winding paths offer lots of variety without ever feeling too busy.
This session was such a joy—full of energy, tenderness, and that uniquely California kind of calm. If you’re looking for a relaxed, beautiful setting for your next family photos, Beresford Park might just be the perfect spot.
Ready to create your own set of memories here? I’d love to help you plan the perfect session.
Yours,
Shayna