When it comes to finding the perfect backdrop for your photoshoot, Contra Costa County offers a wide range of stunning locations. Whether you’re a photographer looking for new places to shoot, or someone planning a family, engagement, or senior photoshoot, this county in Northern California has a wealth of scenic spots to choose from. From picturesque parks to hidden beaches, Contra Costa County provides diverse landscapes that cater to different tastes and styles.
In this guide, we’ll explore some of the must-use and must-see photoshoot locations in Contra Costa County. Whether you’re looking for natural beauty, historic landmarks, or urban settings, this list has something for everyone. Let's dive in!
Briones Regional Park
Location: Briones Regional Park
Address: 2537 Reliez Valley Rd, Martinez, CA 94553
Briones Regional Park is a photographer's dream for anyone looking to capture the natural beauty of rolling hills, wildflower meadows, and panoramic views. The park offers plenty of open space and hiking trails, making it perfect for outdoor family shoots or engagement sessions. Springtime is particularly stunning, with lush green hills and vibrant wildflowers providing colorful backdrops. For a more dramatic look, the golden hues of summer or fall can give your photos a classic California vibe.
What Makes It Special:
- Rolling hills and scenic views
- Wide-open spaces and natural light
- Ideal for family, engagement, and nature-themed photoshoots
Black Diamond Mines Regional Preserve
Location: Black Diamond Mines
Address: 5175 Somersville Rd, Antioch, CA 94509
For those seeking a more rugged, adventurous feel in their photos, Black Diamond Mines Regional Preserve offers a unique landscape. This park features fascinating geological formations, old mining equipment, and open meadows. With its mix of history and nature, it's an excellent choice for couples, seniors, and even maternity shoots.
The sandstone caves and historic coal mining structures offer interesting textures and backdrops for creative and unique shots. Plus, the sweeping views from the hilltops make for breathtaking sunset photos.
What Makes It Special:
- Historic mining ruins and geological formations
- Sweeping hilltop views for sunset shoots
- Unique textures and rugged landscapes
Heather Farm Park
Location: Heather Farm Park
Address: 301 N San Carlos Dr, Walnut Creek, CA 94598
Heather Farm Park in Walnut Creek is an ideal spot for family and maternity photoshoots. The park features a large rose garden, ponds, and lush greenery. The well-maintained grounds make for a polished, vibrant backdrop that’s suitable for more formal family sessions or fun lifestyle photoshoots. The pond, complete with ducks and turtles, adds a natural element, while the colorful flowers and trees create a soft, romantic vibe.
It’s also a popular spot for weddings, so the romantic settings are perfect for engagement sessions or anniversary photos.
What Makes It Special:
- Beautiful rose garden and lush greenery
- Serene ponds with wildlife
- Perfect for formal family, engagement, and wedding shoots
Lafayette Reservoir
Location: Lafayette Reservoir
Address: 3849 Mt Diablo Blvd, Lafayette, CA 94549
The Lafayette Reservoir is a fantastic location for outdoor photoshoots. With a large body of water surrounded by rolling hills, trees, and open space, this location offers a variety of scenic backdrops. The paved trails around the reservoir make it easy to explore different areas, and the water’s reflection is perfect for tranquil, serene photos.
The Reservoir is particularly beautiful at sunrise or sunset, when the golden light hits the water and creates an ethereal atmosphere. This spot works well for everything from family shoots to fitness or lifestyle photos.
What Makes It Special:
- Tranquil water and beautiful reflections
- Paved trails offering easy access to different spots
- Ideal for outdoor, fitness, and lifestyle photography
Martinez Marina and Waterfront Park
Location: Martinez Marina
Address: North Court St, Martinez, CA 94553
For those seeking waterfront photos, Martinez Marina and Waterfront Park is an excellent choice. This location offers views of the Carquinez Strait and beautiful marshlands, with both natural and urban elements. The marina provides interesting angles for photos, while the open fields and waterfront paths make it a great spot for family or maternity sessions.
As an added bonus, the park’s historic charm, with its old wooden docks and rustic boats, makes for a fantastic spot for couples who want a more laid-back, nautical feel to their engagement photos.
What Makes It Special:
- Waterfront views and natural marshlands
- Historic docks and boats for a rustic, nautical vibe
- Ideal for engagement, family, and senior sessions
Mount Diablo State Park
Location: Mount Diablo State Park
Address: Summit Rd, Walnut Creek, CA 94598
Mount Diablo State Park is one of the crown jewels of Contra Costa County. Known for its breathtaking views and diverse ecosystems, this park offers a range of scenic locations for photoshoots. The park’s summit offers panoramic views of the Bay Area and beyond, while lower trails feature oak woodlands, meadows, and rock formations.
It’s a perfect location for adventure-themed engagement shoots, senior portraits, or even solo sessions for those who want dramatic landscapes as a backdrop.
What Makes It Special:
- Stunning panoramic views from the summit
- Variety of landscapes, including meadows and woodlands
- Perfect for adventurous, nature-focused photoshoots
Tilden Regional Park
Location: Tilden Regional Park
Address: Grizzly Peak Blvd, Berkeley, CA 94708
Although technically on the edge of Contra Costa County, Tilden Regional Park is a must-see for any photographer in the area. Known for its expansive gardens, scenic trails, and historic carousel, Tilden offers a range of stunning backdrops. The park is especially beautiful in the spring and summer when the gardens are in full bloom.
The park’s Nature Area and Botanic Garden are ideal for family and portrait sessions, offering a mix of flora, ponds, and bridges. Additionally, the peaceful Lake Anza provides a serene setting for lakeside photos.
What Makes It Special:
- Expansive gardens and scenic trails
- Historic carousel for fun, whimsical shots
- Ideal for family, portrait, and nature-themed photography
Ruth Bancroft Garden
Location: Ruth Bancroft Garden
Address: 1552 Bancroft Rd, Walnut Creek, CA 94598
For those looking for a more unique and artistic setting, the Ruth Bancroft Garden offers a one-of-a-kind location filled with beautiful succulents and cacti. This botanical garden features an array of unusual plants, making it a perfect spot for couples, maternity shoots, or anyone looking for something different.
The garden’s natural beauty and carefully curated plants provide an exotic and minimalist background that contrasts beautifully with people’s vibrant personalities.
What Makes It Special:
- Unique succulent and cactus gardens
- Minimalist, artistic backdrop
- Great for couples, maternity, and portrait shoots
Old Borges Ranch
Location: Old Borges Ranch
Address: 1035 Castle Rock Rd, Walnut Creek, CA 94598
Old Borges Ranch is a historic ranch located in the foothills of Mount Diablo. This site offers a rustic, old-world charm with its vintage barns, farm equipment, and historic buildings. If you’re going for a country or vintage vibe, this is the place to be.
The ranch is particularly popular for engagement and family photos, as the old barns and rolling fields offer a quaint and peaceful setting. The vintage structures also provide interesting textures for creative portraits.
What Makes It Special:
- Historic barns and rustic charm
- Vintage farm equipment and buildings
- Perfect for country-themed or vintage-inspired shoots
Benicia State Recreation Area
Location: Benicia State Recreation Area
Address: 1 State Park Rd, Benicia, CA 94510
Though slightly outside Contra Costa County, the Benicia State Recreation Area is well worth the trip for its stunning coastal views and tranquil wetlands. This spot is ideal for sunset photos, offering wide-open spaces, marshland trails, and waterfront views of the Carquinez Strait.
The area is relatively quiet, making it an excellent choice for those looking for peaceful, undisturbed settings for their family or engagement sessions. It’s especially popular for golden-hour shoots, as the soft lighting complements the natural surroundings perfectly.
What Makes It Special:
- Stunning waterfront views and wetlands
- Quiet, peaceful atmosphere
- Perfect for sunset, engagement, and family photos
Conclusion: Find Your Perfect Photoshoot Location in Contra Costa County
Contra Costa County offers an impressive array of locations for your next photoshoot. Whether you’re looking for sweeping landscapes, historical charm, or lush greenery, you’re sure to find the perfect setting. Each of these spots has its own unique qualities that make them ideal for capturing unforgettable moments.
So next time you're planning a photoshoot in the area, consider these must-see locations and pick the one that best fits your vision. Whether you're a photographer or someone looking to capture special memories, Contra Costa County has the perfect spot waiting for you!
