Are you looking for family photos in a more natural setting, with pine trees, an alpine lake, and plenty of trails for kids to run on? Crestline, California, is the place for you. It’s built around Lake Gregory and near several other alpine lakes, all within a couple hours of Los Angeles. It’s also a very dog-friendly place (and I always welcome family pets on photo day!). The San Bernardino mountains are some of the closest mountains to Los Angeles that include towering pine trees, always my favorite thing for family photos. 

Why Choose Crestline for Family Photography?

Scenic Diversity in a Small Radius

Crestline packs a surprising amount of natural beauty into a small area. We have:

• Lake Gregory for calm water reflections and sunset colors
• San Bernardino National Forest for tall pines and golden forest light
• Dirt pull-outs and hiking paths for rustic, adventurous vibes
• Cozy mountain cabins you can AirBnB for a full experience 

This variety means you can get multiple looks—mountain, lake, forest—in a single session.

Mild Weather and Year-Round Beauty

Every season offers something different in Crestline. I get asked a lot if families need to be concerned about snow in winter. We get some snow up here, but if you really want snow, we might have to go further up into the mountains. Typically, with weather, I like to make the call within 24 hours. If it’s dangerous I never recommend clients drive up into Crestline for family photos. If you really want snow and know it’s coming, I always recommend getting in before the snow and cuddling up in an AirBnB within walking distance of our shoot. The roads get plowed very well, and I’m a good snow driver. 

Spring and Fall are definitely my favorite times to shoot family photos near Lake Gregory. Spring offers a lot of blooming things (Dogwood is common up here). And fall has those golden colors as trees start to hibernate.

A Relaxed, Family-Friendly Atmosphere

Unlike busier mountain towns nearby, Crestline offers quieter locations and easier parking—ideal for families with young kids. Children can explore the lakefront, look for pinecones, or walk forest trails. Kids do so much better when they’re in an environment where they can look around, touch things, and interact naturally. That’s the type of photo I like to take, because in 10 years, that’s what you’ll want to remember. 

What to Wear for Family Photos in Crestline

Mountain environments pair beautifully with earthy, warm tones. Consider:

• Forest greens, rust, mustard, navy, beige, or cream
• Textures like knit sweaters, flannels, or linen
• Layers (mountain weather can shift quickly)
• Matching tones rather than exact matching outfits

Avoid neon colors or overly busy patterns—they can distract from the scenic mountain surroundings.

Best Time of Day to Take Photos in Crestline

Golden Hour (1 hour before sunset)

Soft, warm light makes skin glow and scenery vibrant. Lake Gregory sunsets can be especially stunning.

Morning Light

Cooler tones and crisp shadows—great for families who prefer fresh, early starts.

Midday in the Forest

If you’re shooting under tall pines, midday works surprisingly well thanks to natural diffusion from the canopy.

Tips for a Smooth Family Photo Session

Plan extra travel time. Mountain roads can be slow or winding.

Bring layers for kids. Even in summer, forests can feel cool.

Pack small snacks and water. Energized kids = better photos.

Be flexible. Some of the best moments come from exploring the mountain environment, not posing perfectly.

Final Advice for great Crestline family photos: 

Hire me or someone who has a lot of nature/mountain family photography in their portfolio. Mountains are unique with making decisions on timing and weather. And families (especially with young kids) are unique in how the session should feel for the kids.