A Playful Family Session at Cuesta Inlet in Los Osos
Cuesta Inlet on the Bay in Los Osos, California, is one of my favorite spots for family portraits. This playful family session at Cuesta Inlet was a perfect example of why. With two young children full of energy and curiosity, we leaned into the fun by focusing on play and candid moments. The result? A relaxed, joyful session filled with authentic family connection.
Cuesta Inlet truly shines in the fall when the pampas grass is at its peak—usually from late July through early November. However, the views of the bay and natural grasses are beautiful year-round, making this location a solid choice for any season.
If you’re considering this spot for your family session, timing is everything. The soft, golden light within two hours of sunset creates a dreamy backdrop for photos. The right timing helps capture the beauty of this serene location.
The other factor in timing is little kids and their naps. Prioritizing well rested little ones will make for the most comfortable and sweet photos, I promise! If you have kids who are still napping or have early bedtimes, let me know the time they’re the most rested and I can suggest locations that have great lighting around that time. (Trust me, it’s worth it!)
Planning for holiday cards: Plan to contact me in late summer for your ideal fall date as they book up quite quickly. I recommend a session in late summer or early fall. This way you can take advantage of any Black Friday or Cyber Monday sales.
Want more inspiration for your family portrait session? Check out my San Luis Obispo Family Portrait Location Guide to explore more beautiful spots in the area. We have so many, it’s hard to choose!
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