One of the biggest hidden gems in the San Francisco Bay area is Briones. As I’m writing this, I’ve been wondering how this 6,117 acre open space preserve has been kept so pristine. Briones covers Lafayette, Martinez, Walnut Creek, and Pleasant Hill, California. All of these cities are a part of Contra Costa County and offer amazing routes for anyone who enjoys hiking.

As a native to the area, I know these hills well and enjoy hiking to see the panoramic views of Mount Diablo, the Diablo valley to the east, the Sacramento River to the North and the Berkeley Hills/Mount Tamalpais to the west. Briones hosts a variety of animals and birds such as turkey vultures, black-tailed deer, cougars, coyotes, squirrels and red tailed hawks. There are also cattle, sheep and goat ranchers on the land. Also good to know, this east bay regional park is dog friendly! Feel free to bring your pet to our photoshoot! One of my goals in the future is to be able to own a horse and take my horse on walks in the Briones hills. :)

Here are some photos of a College Park High School Senior I took in the Spring Season. Thankfully we caught the flowers while they were in bloom for our portrait photography session and with the green grass and sun set, the landscape was beyond beautiful. I’ve also taken many portraits at Briones with the dry golden Hills grass. I’ll share some photos below as well.

When meeting for a portrait session I usually meet clients before sunset to catch the perfect golden light you’ll see in most of my images. I’ve attached some images I took of a family at Briones. They have a baby girl and because nap times and sleep don’t always work out time-wise, I met this sweet family around noon at Briones. I love the late summer nights, but that can also be a challenge when little kids have bedtimes before 8pm!