Forest Elopement on Mount Tamalpais
A perfect location for a couples session with a forest vibe.
If you have ever been to Mount Tamalpais you'll know that because of how large the landscape is, it can be difficult to navigate. I've only been there twice and each of those times my navigation took me alternate ways. It felt like I was seeing Mount Tamalpais all over again. I was seeing sides of Mount Tamalpais that I've never seen before. This time I was on a photography shoot for a couple at the Fire lookout on the Verna Dunshee Trail. During my drive to the fire lookout, my head was on a swivel to find new spots that I could shoot at for the next time.
As a San Fransisco Photographer and beyond, I'm constantly on the search for a beautiful landscape as a backdrop for couples who want an adventure. Adventure makes the event romantic, fun and brings out those micro-moments with couples that are a wonder to capture. During my drive to the fire lookout, I discovered Rock Spring just off the road. As a couples photographer, this location excites me because it is so perfect. There are a few things that I look for when searching for that perfect location.
The parking lot is right off the road and is free to park.
During the spring there new and old textures, newly budding flowers, and some contrasting dried foliage along the ground.
It is unique and diverse in its setting. There's an old water well that adds texture to the scene against the tall trees. Plenty of tall grassy textures, woodsy trees, a creek, an open field, rolling hills, including a view of the San Fransisco bay.
It's easy-going once your there. Every part of this location is within walking distance.
The list goes on. Not only do you have all these beautiful backdrops to capture a couples session, but the light becomes very dynamic at sunset. It hits the trees and the hills, so perfectly you don't want to miss it. It provides all the elements to capture something timeless and magical.
Outfits to wear:
I would recommend this location during mid-fall or early spring. When deciding on your outfits it's all up to what style you like! You can go very causal, playing with earth tones and plaid or you can dress very formally in a gown and suit. You can even do soft muted tones like beige and brown as a prominent color in your outfit.
This is one of the many beautiful locations to do an elopement photoshoot inside Mount Tamalpais. I'm still discovering the playground that is Mount Tamalpais and all the wonderful spots that it provides. I hope I can frequent this area and actually have the time to discover all the hidden gems, but until then I'm pretty satisfied with this location for now.
Below are a few photos of when I was at Rock Spring.
I would love to hear from you! If you would like to book me for your elopement or couples engagement session, please send me an inquiry here! Looking forward to getting to know you and your journey together.