Balboa Park Family Photography Tips

How to plan a Balboa Park Family Portrait Session.

Are you planning a fun-filled family portrait session and searching for a perfect spot in San Diego? Balboa Park is the perfect destination for you! The park is a real gem of the city, with its stunning gardens, mesmerizing fountains, and captivating architecture that provides an ideal backdrop for your family portraits. And when it comes to capturing the spontaneity and happiness of your family, there’s no one better than Dennis Mock, your go-to photographer! Keep reading to learn how you can plan the most amazing Balboa Park family portrait session you’ve ever had!

 
 

fun silly family Portraits with son in balboa park san diego
Balboa Park San Diego Family photos playing with parents

About the Park

One of the most fascinating places in San Diego is Balboa Park. Did you know that this park was originally called “City Park” 

but was later renamed after Spanish explorer Vasco Nunez de Balboa? This was done in honor of the 1915 Panama-California Exposition, which was held in the park that year. Balboa Park is not only a National Park Landmark but also on the National Register of Historic Places and one of the Great Places in America. 

There are so many colorful and unique backgrounds to choose from when taking photos here, including the Botanical Building, the world-famous San Diego Zoo, Spanish Village Art Center, El Prado, Spreckels Organ Pavilion, Cabrillo Bridge, Alcazar Gardens, Australian Garden, the Casa del Rey Moro Garden, Desert Cactus Garden, Marston House Garden Japanese Friendship Garden, and the Lily Pond. As a photographer, I would love to capture the beauty of Balboa Park through my lens and tell its unique story

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family getting close for the family portrait in San Diego Balboa Park's colorful doors
Young boy poses for a family portrait at Balboa Park.

What Should I Wear at the Park?


Choosing outfits for a family photo shoot can be daunting, but it doesn’t have to be! Here are some tips to help you look and feel your best:

  1. Don’t try to match! Instead, coordinate outfits by choosing complementary colors and patterns. This will add visual interest to your photos and make everyone comfortable.
  2. Keep it simple for your little ones. Kids are often uncomfortable with multiple outfit changes, so stick to one outfit they feel comfortable in and matches the overall color scheme.
  3. Opt for comfortable clothing that allows you to move and play freely. You’ll want to run, jump, and play with your family without worrying about your clothing.

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Extended family session with 30 people in Balboa Park with this giant tree

Can I bring the Extended Family to my Session?

Everyone is welcome! It’s great to hear that you’re planning a get-together in San Diego! An extended family session at the park with Dennis Mock would be a wonderful way to capture memories of this special time. Dennis is a talented photographer who can capture beautiful shots of your family that you’ll treasure for years.

Yes, Dennis can photograph the group and individual families. He can work with a shot list that includes group shots, grandparents with grandkids, just the grandkids, grandparents portrait, siblings, siblings with their families, individual shots of the grandkids, parents’ couples portrait, and individual shots of the parents with their kids. With this variety of shots, you’ll have plenty of options to choose from when it comes time to display your photos.

This information helps you plan your extended family session with Dennis and create some unforgettable memories with your loved ones!


Balboa Park San Diego family photos with colorful fountains in the garden
Grandaparents posed with their beautiful grandkids at Balboa Park


Playful Portraits: Celebrating Family 2025

fun silly family Portraits with son in balboa park san diego

Session Fee


Our sessions, which last between 45 to 75 minutes, are designed to be fun, engaging, and playful, allowing us to capture kids just being kids. Every session is a unique experience, tailored to reflect the personality and dynamics of your family. You can choose your favorite San Diego location for a memorable shoot—whether it’s the Beach, Balboa Park, or even your cozy home. Everyone is welcome!

$390

Digitals


You’ll receive hand-edited digital images that truly reflect your family’s personality. We capture over 400 shots during the session and deliver more than 100 edited photos. Having these digital files is important because it allows you to easily share moments with family and friends on social media or print your favorite shots at your convenience. Plus, each image comes with a personal touch that showcases your family’s unique essence.

$395

Prints



For those who love tangible memories, I offer a handcrafted 20-page, 10×10 album or a beautiful small framed wall print (up to 12×18). These are perfect for showcasing your family’s unique story in your home. Additionally, I can provide prints in various sizes and formats to suit your needs, whether you want a stunning centerpiece for your living room or lovely gifts for relatives.

$450

Ready to book your family photo session?

With these tips, you’re ready to plan your Balboa Park family session. Don’t let precious moments slip away as your kids grow up – make time to play and document your days with your loved ones. Contact Dennis Mock Call or Text 858-722-5573.

Get In Touch

If you’re looking for a photographer in San Diego I would love to hear from you!

CALL TEXT 858-722-5573

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