While most of my holiday mini sessions take place down in Orange County and Long Beach, I always love bringing a few dates up into Los Angeles too. In fact, this year’s LA locations offer a nice mix of classic and lesser known spots. Each session is $125 to book, with an additional $500 due when your photos are ready. So if you want to see every available date, you can view the full 2026 calendar and book your date here.
Venice Canals
First up, the Venice Canals are one of the most requested locations every year, and for good reason. Specifically, the narrow walkways, small footbridges, and reflections on the water create a completely different backdrop than anything else on the calendar. Additionally, it photographs beautifully in the early fall light, which is exactly why this session tends to book up fast. As a result, if Venice is on your list, I would recommend grabbing a date as soon as you see one open.
Marina del Rey
Meanwhile, Marina del Rey offers a more relaxed, upscale coastal feel, with boats and open water as a backdrop. Because of that calmer setting, it is a great choice for families who want something polished without the busier crowds you often find right on the beach. In other words, if you love the idea of a beach session but not the beach crowds, this is a wonderful middle ground.
George F Canyon Trails, Rolling Hills Estates
For families in the South Bay, on the other hand, George F Canyon Trails in Rolling Hills Estates brings a completely different look to the lineup. Unlike the other two locations, this spot is more wooded and trail based, which makes it a nice option if you are looking for a natural, earthy feel rather than a beach setting for your holiday photos.
Planning Your LA Session
Overall, since these Los Angeles dates tend to be limited compared to the Orange County and Long Beach calendar, I recommend booking early if one of these three locations is on your list. Also, be sure to bring layers for the cooler fall mornings. Furthermore, coordinating your family’s outfits in muted, neutral tones will help so the location itself gets to stand out in the photos.
Ready to reserve your Los Angeles holiday mini session? Check the calendar for available dates and book before your favorite spot fills up.
