Great Outdoor Locations in Sacramento for Portrait Photoshoot

Have you ever seen a beautiful scene on a drive somewhere and thinking wow that's a nice location for a shoot? It happen to me on a daily basis but the bad thing is that most of the scenes I see are on private land. Sacramento have endless open fields with beautiful backdrops yet everything seems to be fenced in. I can't tell you how many times I drive pass a picturesque field where I could totally do a beautiful photoshoot but the whole area is surrounded by barb wire fences. Over the years I have several easily accessible spots that I frequent. Each have their own unique feature that make them ideal for portrait photoshoot.

1. Yolo Pypass Area

This is a levee in Davis near the Yolo bypass wild life area. Coming from either east or west of I-80 exit E Chiles Rd and look for the short direction to Levee Rd.

The levee is positioned north and south and have beautiful lighting during Sunrise and Sunset. Since there is no shade on the levee, lights can be a little bit harsh if you arrive too early before sunset.

Yolo Bypass Kevin Phan Photography

Yolo Bypass Kevin Phan Photography

2. Beals Point

Beals Point is another great outdoor location during the fall and winter season when water level of Folsom lake is low. My prefer spot is to the right of the parking lot coming in from the gate. I love to shoot here because Folsom dam acts as natural "screen" to block the sun as it set and give a little bit extra time for good light during golden hour. Also another great feature is there is little wind in this protected area. This calms the water surface and the lake act as a great reflection to the beautiful sunset sky.

Beals Point Kevin Phan Photography

Beals Point Kevin Phan Photography

Beals Point Kevin Phan Photography

Beals Point Kevin Phan Photography

Folsom Lake Kevin Phan Photography

3. Jedediah Smith Trail near Iron Point Station

You can park at Iron Point Railway Station (near Folsom Premium Outlet) and walk across the street to this great location. Often times I do see photographers in this area doing portrait sessions. The big trees and grassy area next to Jedediah Smith trail provides many beautiful backgrounds. Just be careful with your composition as Folsom Blvd and highway 50 is nearby. I'm always careful not to include highways signs, traffic lights and other buildings in my composition.

Folsom Kevin Phan Photography

Some other locations worth checking out:

-Davis arboretum (specifically at the Redwood Cove)

-The American River access at Yukon River way (and other river access in the Rancho Cordova area)

-The rock garden at William Land Regional Park

Please comment about your own suggestions for other outdoor location in Sacramento.

Also what is your camera setting and how do you approach outdoor shoot in general? I still only trust full manual even though it does take make longer to read the light.