San Francisco Fall Mini Sessions 2026 | Dates, Locations & Everything You Need to Know
Fall is one of my favorite times of year in San Francisco. The weather is beautiful, the light is soft, and every corner of the city offers something completely different, from ocean cliffs to eucalyptus trees and iconic Golden Gate Bridge views.
Each year I offer a limited number of fall mini sessions at some of my favorite locations around San Francisco and Marin. These sessions are perfect if you’re looking to update your family photos, celebrate a milestone, announce a pregnancy, or simply capture this season of life without committing to a full session.
Here’s everything you need to know about this year’s San Francisco Fall Mini Sessions.
2026 San Francisco Fall Mini Session Schedule
September 18 — Baker Beach | Sunset
Associate Session
Baker Beach is one of San Francisco’s most recognizable photography locations for good reason. Between the sandy beach, dramatic cliffs, ocean views, and the Golden Gate Bridge, it offers incredible variety in just a short walk.
Sunset sessions here are absolutely magical as the light reflects across the sand and water. While it can be busy, the scenery makes it well worth it.
September 27 — Golden Gate Bridge (Cavallo Point) | Sunset
Associate Session
If you love the Golden Gate Bridge but want something a little quieter than the typical viewpoints, this location is one of my favorites. Located near Cavallo Point in Sausalito, you’ll find sweeping bridge views, beautiful grasses, native plants, and a peaceful setting that feels tucked away from the city.
Perfect for families, couples, maternity sessions, and anyone wanting an iconic San Francisco backdrop with a softer, more natural feel.
October 2 — Fort Funston | Sunset
Alyx’s First Session Back!
This location feels unlike anywhere else in the Bay Area. We’ll photograph on the cliffs overlooking the Pacific Ocean, often sitting above the morning fog as the sun rises over the coastline.
The evening light, wide-open space, and dramatic views create timeless images that feel both adventurous and peaceful.
October 10 — Golden Gate Park (Metson Lake) | Morning
If you’re hoping for a little more greenery and early fall color, Metson Lake is such a beautiful choice. With winding pathways, towering trees, peaceful water, and soft morning light, this location offers a classic park setting right in the heart of San Francisco.
By October, I expect many of the surrounding trees to begin changing color, bringing even more cozy fall vibes to your photos.
October 17 — Lovers’ Lane | Morning
Lovers’ Lane is a San Francisco classic for family photography. The beautiful tree-lined pathway creates one of the most unique natural backdrops in the city, making it feel like you’ve stepped into the woods without ever leaving San Francisco.
If you’re drawn to warm, woodsy images, this location is hard to beat.
October 24 — Palace of Fine Arts | Morning
If you can’t choose between architecture, greenery, water, and beautiful landscaping, Palace of Fine Arts truly has it all.
The iconic columns and rotunda pair perfectly with manicured gardens, tree-lined pathways, reflecting ponds, and year-round foliage, giving us countless beautiful backdrops during your 15-minute session.
What’s Included
Every Fall Mini Session includes:
- 15-minute session at one pre-selected location
- Perfect for families, couples, maternity, or children
- Ideal for up to 5 people
- Professionally edited online gallery with 15–30 images
- 5 digital downloads included
- Full gallery upgrade:
- $200 when purchased before gallery delivery
- $250 after gallery delivery
- Gallery delivered within 3 weeks
- Optional 3-day rush delivery: $200
Investment
Sessions with Alyx: $500
Associate Mini Sessions: $400
Meet My Associate Photographer
This year is especially exciting because our family welcomed twins in July, making us a family of six! While I’m on maternity leave through September, two of this year’s mini session dates will be photographed by my wonderful associate photographer, Shannon Gaona.
I trust Shannon completely, she even photographed my own maternity session this year. She has such a warm, natural way of working with families, and I know you’ll be in wonderful hands. Even better, you’ll still receive the full Alyx Jones Photography experience. I’ll handle all communication, planning, editing, and gallery delivery from beginning to end. Shannon simply gets to show up, make your family feel comfortable, and capture all the beautiful moments.
Frequently Asked Questions
Are mini sessions right for my family?
Mini sessions are perfect if you’re looking for updated family photos, holiday cards, milestone portraits, maternity photos, or just a handful of beautiful images without booking a full session.
Are you still doing full sessions?
I am! I am currently booking family, maternity, and newborn session for the remainder for 2026 and early 2027.
What if I have more than five people?
These sessions are designed for immediate families of up to five people. If you have a larger group, reach out about booking a full family session.
Which San Francisco mini session location should I choose?
- Golden Gate Bridge: Iconic bridge views with grassy landscapes.
- Baker Beach: Beach, cliffs, and sunset over the ocean.
- Fort Funston: Dramatic coastal cliffs and morning fog.
- Golden Gate Park: Trees, lake, greenery, and classic fall colors.
- Lovers’ Lane: Woodsy, intimate forest feel.
- Palace of Fine Arts: Elegant architecture, gardens, and reflecting water.
Book Your 2026 San Francisco Fall Mini Session
These sessions are only offered once a year and typically fill quickly. Whether you’re a returning family or joining me for the first time, I’d love to help you document this season of your lives.
Booking goes live on August 10th, 2026. Check out this page to book.
I can’t wait to see you this fall!
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