14 Awesome Photoshoot Ideas Near San Francisco

It’s hard to get photography “wrong” in a city like San Francisco. This place is a hub of creativity, inspiration, and physical beauty, so there are opportunities to make interesting work everywhere you look. From the scenic public parks to top-notch production spaces, you’ll find exactly what you need for your next shoot. Here’s our list of 14 awesome photoshoot ideas in and near San Francisco.

1. Tell a good story in a used bookstore

Mission District, San Francisco, CA

If you’re looking for something a little different, this used bookstore, available to rent on Peerspace, is a truly unique option. This location is actually a working bookstore, so you can only rent the space before and after closing. However, its hosts are flexible and accommodating! Storefront windows let in some natural light, but as you move through the rest of the store, it’s worth noting that you may want to bring in your own equipment.

2. Take whimsical, fun portraits in a magical rainbow sanctuary

Outer Richmond, San Francisco, CA

It’s probably safe to say that you’ve never seen a venue quite like this one. This magical rainbow sanctuary is practically made of whimsy, complete with a heart-shaped disco ball and multicolored decorations throughout. Consider this spot for an over-the-top fashion or lifestyle shoot, as any images you make here will certainly stand out in a crowd.

3. Pretend you’re in a movie at the Palace of Fine Arts

Marina District, San Francisco, CA

The Palace of Fine Arts is an iconic San Francisco landmark, and it makes a great backdrop for all kinds of outdoor photo shoots. In fact, you’ll probably recognize the grounds from several popular movies. The space features a lagoon and plenty of walkways around the pergola and rotunda. Accordingly, this is a must-see stop for any movie-buff clients, or if you’re looking for an iconic structure to use in your background.

4. Take your hipness to new heights at this boho downtown salon

Lower Nob Hill, San Francisco, CA

This salon space is a good option if you need something a bit bohemian but not necessarily overstated for your photo shoot. Large windows in the front of the property give you a lot of natural light, while darker walls covered in contemporary art add to the mood of the space. Finally, eclectic furniture and floor-to-ceiling bookshelves complete the scene, making this a great spot for artistic photos.

5. Be a tourist in your own town by the San Francisco Bay

Parks and walkways along the San Francisco Bay provide many opportunities for breathtaking natural backdrops, as well as a chance to capture the iconic Golden Gate Bridge in your background. (The Golden Gate Bridge is unsurprisingly the most photographed location in San Francisco!) Plan your shoot for the early evening, an hour before sunset, to get the best lighting for your images.

6. Fulfill your childhood fantasies in a modern treehouse

Inner Sunset, San Francisco, CA

What could be better than a photoshoot in a modern treehouse? This is a brightly lit space with an open floor plan and an amazing view from the outdoor decks. And because it’s surrounded by flora, with the San Francisco city skyline in the background, you’ll have amazing views and amazing photos to match.

7. Take Pinterest-worthy portraits in this creative studio

Mission District, San Francisco, CA

This stunning loft offers white walls and mid-century modern furniture, with a clean, bohemian aesthetic that screams, “Pinterest!” Complimented by minimalist decoration throughout, this space also boasts a ton of beautiful natural light. And we’re not kidding: from the living room to the kitchen to the bathroom, every inch of this space is photoshoot-worthy.

8. Capture the natural beauty at Lands End

Located at the northwest corner of San Francisco, you’ll find Lands End, a sprawling park bordering the dramatic Pacific Ocean. Whether you’re wandering through the Sutro Baths ruins, or you’re enjoying a stroll through the windswept Cypress trees, the raw natural beauty of this place will leave you wondering, “Wait, we’re still in the city?”

9. Embrace the skyline in an artist’s loft

Mission District, San Francisco, CA

In the North East Mission District, you’ll find this wonderful loft space. Not only is the interior of this space decorated with some great modern art, but its floor-to-ceiling windows also provide some pretty impressive views of San Francisco’s iconic hills. (Enjoy this loft’s incredible roof deck in between shots.)

10. Soak in the sun in a Potrero Hill garden pavilion

Potrero Hill, San Francisco, CA

This garden pavilion is a lush, green oasis for all your outdoor photoshoot needs. While the large succulent collection and sprawling lawn feels like you’ve escaped the city, here you can enjoy all the convenience of being centrally-located in Potrero Hill. Also, there’s also plenty of indoor space to shoot, or cool off while editing images.

11. Keep it simple in this spacious studio

Potrero Hill, San Francisco, CA

Behold a beautiful large studio with fantastic views of the San Francisco Bay. This space is on the top floor of its building and has plenty of large windows, flooding the place with natural light. Because the space has white walls and minimal decoration, it makes an excellent blank canvas for your creative needs.

12. Bask in natural light in a sun-lit arts studio

Mission District, San Francisco, CA

You’ll find plenty of light in this Mission District studio. White walls and minimal furniture provide the perfect blank canvas to create the shoot you want from scratch. And don’t worry if you need a darker set: the windows in this space have light-defusing curtains to offset the studio’s great natural light. If you need a large space and plenty of room to work, this is a solid choice.

13. Put on an exclusive secret shoot in this speakeasy

The Castro, San Francisco, CA

This Castro lounge is the perfect place for a dark, moody photoshoot. With walls adorned with quirky portraits that feel like something out of the Addams Family, and classic furniture that feels decidedly elegant, this space is guaranteed to give your photographs some gravitas.

14. Capture the city’s natural splendor at Kite Hill

Eureka Valley, San Francisco, CA

Kite Hill is one of San Francisco’s smaller parks, located in Eureka Valley. However, don’t let that stop you from using it for photos—this place offers some of the most stunning views of the city. Pro tip: Kite Hill Park is especially photogenic in the spring when a variety of native wildflowers begin to bloom, so consider taking your photos during that time of year to capture those pops of color.

Find production spaces in San Francisco on Peerspace