Why Spring Is (In My Opinion) the Best Time for an Engagement Session at Filoli

Choosing the perfect location for your engagement session is no small task. You want timeless, stunning photos, but you also want a place that feels special—somewhere that enhances your love story, not just serves as a pretty backdrop. Enter Filoli, a historic estate in Woodside, California, where spring transforms the gardens into a romantic dreamscape.

Thinking about booking your engagement session here? Here’s why spring is the absolute best time to do it (plus a few things to consider before committing).

1. The Gardens Are in Peak Bloom

If you want engagement photos bursting with color, spring at Filoli is the time to go. Tulips, wisteria, cherry blossoms, and roses all make their grand entrance, creating a backdrop that looks straight out of a European romance film. Every corner of the estate feels alive, from the manicured flower beds to the climbing vines and lush greenery.

Translation? Your photos will be filled with natural vibrance—no filters needed.

2. Soft, Flattering Spring Light

Photographers love spring light, and for good reason. The sun sits at a more forgiving angle, creating a soft, golden glow that flatters everyone. Unlike the harsh summer sun that can cause squinting and shadows, spring’s natural diffused light makes your skin look luminous and your photos effortlessly dreamy.

3. Pleasant Temperatures (a.k.a. No Sweaty Foreheads)

Spring at Filoli means mild temperatures—cool mornings, warm afternoons, and comfortable evenings. Unlike summer, where you’ll be battling heat and humidity (and let’s be honest, melting in formal attire), spring lets you dress up without breaking a sweat. This is especially crucial if you’re planning on wearing layered outfits or classic engagement session attire like suits or long dresses.

4. Fewer Crowds, More Intimacy

Filoli is no secret—it’s one of the most breathtaking estates in California. But in spring, the visitor traffic is still relatively light compared to peak summer and fall seasons. This means fewer people in the background of your photos, fewer distractions, and a more relaxed, intimate experience where you can focus on each other instead of dodging tourists.

5. The Estate’s Historic Charm Complements Any Style

Filoli isn’t just a garden—it’s a Gilded Age estate dripping in elegance. Whether your style is classic, modern, or somewhere in between, this place delivers. The mix of European-inspired gardens, ivy-covered walls, grand staircases, and hidden pathways offers endless variety, so you’re not stuck with just one type of backdrop.

Plus, if you’re leaning toward a black-tie engagement session, Filoli’s architecture and polished aesthetic make formal outfits look effortlessly chic.

But… Is Filoli Right for You? (A Few Cons to Consider)

As much as we love Filoli, it’s not the perfect fit for everyone. Here are a few things to think about before booking your session:

✔️ Permits & Fees – Filoli requires a photography permit, which can be pricey. If you’re on a tight budget, this might not be the most cost-effective option.

✔️ Strict Rules – The estate has guidelines for professional photography, including restrictions on where you can shoot and how much time you have. If you’re hoping for a super casual, spur-of-the-moment session, this might feel limiting.

✔️ Weather Can Be Unpredictable – Spring showers aren’t common, but they do happen. If you’re set on outdoor-only shots, you’ll want a backup plan just in case.

✔️ Not Ideal for Very Private Sessions – While spring is less crowded than summer, Filoli is still a public space. If you’re envisioning a completely secluded, just-the-two-of-you experience, a private estate or remote nature location might be a better fit.

Final Thoughts: Is Spring at Filoli Worth It?

If you love stunning gardens, historic charm, and elegant backdrops (without the summer heat), spring at Filoli is hard to beat. The colors, light, and overall romance of the setting make it one of the best engagement session locations in the Bay Area. Just be sure to plan ahead, secure your permit, and embrace the season’s natural beauty.

Still unsure? Talk to your photographer about what you envision, and they can help you decide if Filoli—or another dreamy springtime spot—is right for you.