Dog Photography at SF’s Best Dog Friendly Beach!
If you're searching for a dog photographer in San Francisco, you’re probably looking to capture more than just a moment. You want to celebrate your dog’s spirit, joy, and the unique bond you share. Beach photoshoots are among my favorites for this reason. The combination of sand, sea, and your pup’s playful energy creates memories that last a lifetime.
One of my favorite photo spots in the area is Fort Funston, an off-leash beach just minutes south of San Francisco. I recently had the chance to photograph Twila and her humans for an engagement shoot here, and it reminded me of why this location is such a gem. The beach’s variety of backdrops from the dark sand sand and impressive cliffs, to vibrant graffiti walls, and wooded trails offers endless possibilities for capturing your dog’s natural beauty and your connection with them. Here are some examples:
Strolling the Beach
The wide, windswept shoreline is perfect for candid walking shots. Dogs love the freedom to roam, and I love capturing them mid-stride with ears perked, tails wagging, and tongues out. These moments feel the most natural and heartfelt, especially when paired with their humans walking alongside them. Bonus points if they look up at you as lovingly as Twila did!
Graffiti Walls for a Pop of Color
One of Fort Funston’s most unique and cool features is the colorful, ever-changing graffiti walls tucked along parts of the trails and beach. These vibrant backdrops add a bold, urban contrast to the natural surroundings and are great for posed portraits. Whether your pup sits, stands, or throws in a goofy head tilt, the walls add a little personality to every image.
Forested Trails
Fort Funston isn’t just sand and sea. It’s also home to tree-lined trails that feel like a hidden forest. This is where I go for quiet, intimate portraits. The filtered light through the trees adds a little magic, and the surroundings give a calm, storybook vibe. If your dog loves sniffing through the woods or leading the way down winding paths, this is their zone.
Sandy Dunes - Textured Cliffs
The dunes here offer some of the most dramatic textures in the area. Rolling sand underfoot and weathered cliffs in the background create a minimalist, earthy setting that works beautifully for simple, striking portraits. The vibrant wildflowers and green vegetation that grow in the crevices of the cliffs and dunes add a pop of color and an extra layer of depth and beauty.
Q: What should I wear for a beach photoshoot?
A: Comfort is key! I recommend wearing comfortable clothing that makes you feel good. Make sure you don’t mind these clothes getting sandy or wet, and don't forget sturdy shoes for walking on uneven terrain. Earthy or neutral tones tend to photograph beautifully, especially when paired with the natural backdrops at the beach, think forest greens, tans, rusts, denim, or cream. But then again, if you and your pup prefer to stroll the beaches in matching pink and zebra stripe suits.. awesome, I love it!! (no but seriously, please contact me if this is you)
Q: What’s the best time of day for a photoshoot on the beach?
A: Early mornings or late afternoons are perfect for capturing soft, golden light. This is when the sun is low in the sky, and the light creates a warm, flattering glow on your pup. It’s also less crowded, which means more space for your dog to roam freely.
Q: What if my dog is shy or nervous around strangers and/or dogs?
A: I totally understand! I have a lot of experience working with dogs who are a bit more reserved, shy or reactive. We can take things at a pace that works for your pup, and I’ll use my calm, patient approach to help them feel comfortable. Your dog’s comfort is my priority, and I’ll ensure they’re relaxed throughout the shoot. If your dog is dog-reactive, please reach out and we will come up with a plan that will set all of us up for success!
Q: My dog can’t be off leash, can we still do a beach photoshoot?
A: Definitely! Most of the dogs I photograph stay on leash during their entire session. I always prioritize the safety of your dog, let me worry about the leash afterwards.
Why Choose Feral & Fab Photography?
When it comes to dog photography, you want someone who understands your dog’s personality, knows how to work with them, and can capture their unique spirit. That's where I come in. With years of experience as a dog photographer in both New York City and the San Francisco Bay Area, I pride myself on making every pup feel at ease and ensuring your photos reflect your dog’s true character.
While this blog post is about beachy photoshoots, I also have a (not so secret) passion for urban sessions. There’s something about the dynamic energy of city streets, whether it’s the striking architecture, vibrant murals, or the charming nooks and crannies of neighborhoods, that makes urban shoots so special. These settings provide a bold, modern backdrop that highlights your dog’s unique personality in an exciting way. So if that's more your vibe, don't hesitate to reach out. Whether it’s a beach photoshoot, an engagement shoot with your dog, or an urban adventure in the heart of the city, I tailor each session to your dog’s needs. From playing on the beach to strolling through bustling streets, I’m all about capturing those candid, goofy, and endearing moments.
Ready to plan your own shoot? Let’s create something beautiful, at the beach, the city streets, or anywhere in between!
