Elk Grove Park

Elk Grove, CA

122 acres of beauty. Endless backdrops. One photographer who knows every corner of it.

Elk Grove Park is one of those locations that never runs out of possibilities. With a stunning 7.5-acre lake, sweeping oak groves, a scenic walking trail, and tucked-away pockets of shade and light — there's a perfect spot here for every family, every season, and every style. I love shooting here because no two sessions ever look the same

Why do I love this location?

At 122 acres, Elk Grove Park is one of the largest and most diverse parks in the Sacramento area — and that variety is exactly what makes it such a dream location for family portraits. Depending on your family's vibe, we can work in completely different parts of the park and create a gallery that feels totally unique to you.
The lake and waterfront area are gorgeous for families who love a more relaxed, lifestyle feel — think kids tossing pebbles, walking along the water's edge, and candid laughing shots with the lake shimmering behind you. The massive oak groves give us dramatic shade, dappled light, and a timeless, painterly backdrop that looks stunning in every season.
The walking trail wraps the lake and gives us movement-based shots full of energy and life. And the area near Strauss Island? It adds a sense of depth and natural beauty that's hard to find anywhere else locally.
The best part — no matter where we shoot, the park's historic oak trees (some of which have been here since the early 1900s) give every image a sense of permanence and grandeur that I absolutely love.

Best Time to Book Your Session Here

Fall (October – November)
The oak groves at Elk Grove Park are breathtaking in fall. The canopy turns warm shades of gold and amber, and the combination of that foliage reflected in the lake is genuinely one of the most beautiful portrait settings in all of Elk Grove. If fall family photos are on your list, this park should be at the top of yours.

Spring (March – May)
Spring brings fresh green grass, blooming flowers along the trail, and soft, even light that's incredibly flattering for families of all sizes. The lake is calm and reflective in spring mornings, and the whole park feels alive and vibrant. It's a wonderful time for families with little ones who love to explore.

Summer (June – August)
Summer sessions at Elk Grove Park are all about the golden hour. Scheduled about an hour before sunset, the light over the lake turns warm and glowing, and the oak trees cast long, beautiful shadows across the grass. I time everything to make sure the light is working for you — all you have to do is show up.

What to Wear

Spring & Summer Sessions Bright, light colors shine here. Soft whites, sky blue, blush, pale yellow, sage green, and light linen tones all look stunning against the lake and lush greenery. Think airy, fresh, and coordinated — not matching.

Fall Sessions Go earthy and warm. Rust, mustard, olive, tan, camel, and deep burgundy all complement the golden oak foliage beautifully. Layers, textures, and cozy fabrics translate wonderfully in fall portraits.

For all seasons: Coordinate your family around one anchor piece rather than dressing everyone identically — it creates a natural, timeless look. Avoid neon colors, large logos, and busy patterns.

Location Details

Location: Elk Grove Park, 9950 Elk Grove Florin Rd, Elk Grove, CA 95624
Parking: Available on site (nominal parking fee may apply)
Restrooms: Available at the park
Accessibility: Wheelchair accessible
Session Types Available Here: Mini sessions, full family sessions, extended family sessions, grad sessions and more.