Fur Babies, Family Bonds & Fatherhood: A Redlands Photography Guide to Prospect Park
Looking for a meaningful way to celebrate Father’s Day this year? Whether you're a devoted dog dad, a first-time father, or a proud grandpa, there's no better time to capture your family's love—furry companions included—than with a custom photo session at the historic Prospect Park in Redlands, California. Surrounded by mature oaks, lush trails, vine-wrapped pergolas, and scenic views of the valley, Prospect Park offers the perfect blend of charm, nature, and light that makes every frame unforgettable.
This blog is your full guide to planning a Father’s Day photography session that feels authentic and effortless. From practical photo tips for pets and kids to the best time of day for golden hour portraits, we break down everything you need to create timeless images filled with joy and connection. But we don’t stop there—we’ll also show you where to eat and unwind after your shoot with our favorite dog- and family-friendly spots in downtown Redlands, from Caprice Café to Redlands Public Market.
If you're based in Riverside, Yucaipa, Calimesa, Beaumont, Banning, Highland, Moreno Valley, or Corona, this short drive to Redlands will be more than worth it. And if you’re traveling down from Big Bear, Lake Arrowhead, or Crestline, a photo session at Prospect Park is the perfect excuse for a day trip with family, fresh air, and memories that last a lifetime.
At Last Minute Photoshoot, we specialize in last-minute, light-filled sessions that celebrate real families—fur babies and all. Whether you’re planning ahead or booking spontaneously, let us help you make this Father’s Day something worth framing.
Some of the most meaningful moments in life aren't scripted—they’re the kind you find in the everyday: a toddler reaching up to hold dad’s hand, a dog racing through grass with its ears flying, a shared laugh between siblings. And sometimes, all of those elements come together in one powerful image that reminds you: this is what matters.
As photographers who live for capturing these exact moments, we believe Father’s Day is the perfect time to hit pause and create something lasting. Whether you're a proud dog dad or planning a surprise family session, Prospect Park in Redlands is one of Southern California’s most underrated gems. With its historic charm, oak-lined trails, and golden light pouring through pergolas, this park is a dream location for both pet photography and family photography in Redlands.
But what makes this even better? It’s not just for locals. If you’re coming in from Riverside, Yucaipa, Calimesa, Beaumont, Banning, Moreno Valley, or Corona, Prospect Park is worth the short drive. Even travelers from Big Bear, Lake Arrowhead, or Crestline often come down the hill for sessions like these—especially when the inland sun hits just right and the trees come alive with movement and warmth.
Prospect Park: Where Family and Pet Photography Come to Life
Located at 1352 Prospect Dr, Redlands, CA 92373, Prospect Park feels like something out of a painting. The wide dirt paths are hugged by lush greenery. Pergolas stretch across open walkways with vines that wrap around like nature’s own framing. There’s a hilltop viewpoint perfect for wide scenic shots, and cozy spots under the trees where dogs can cool off while the kids run wild.
When we shoot here, we let the natural flow of your family guide us. That might mean dad tossing the ball for the dog while the kids sneak up for a surprise group hug. Or maybe it’s the family walking together, hands and leashes intertwined, laughing about who’s actually leading the way. Every session is different—and that’s what we love most.
Tips to Get the Most Out of Your Shoot
To make your Father’s Day photography session in Redlands something special, we always suggest:
Golden hour timing: Book your session about 1–2 hours before sunset. The light during this time is soft and flattering—especially for fur and skin tones.
Pack smart: Treats for pets, water for kids, maybe a lint roller and a backup outfit. You’d be surprised how often we end up on the ground getting that perfect angle.
Be in the moment: The best photos aren’t posed. They’re real. They’re the nose boops, the tickles, the muddy shoes, and the head tilts.
We’ll guide you through gentle prompts and natural poses that keep you relaxed and having fun. And if your pup decides halfway through that the squirrels are more interesting than us? We’ll roll with it.
Make a Day of It: Where to Eat & Explore in Downtown Redlands
After your shoot, you’re minutes from downtown Redlands—one of our favorite areas to relax and refuel.
Caprice Café – 104 E State St, Redlands, CA
Perfect for a more upscale Father’s Day lunch with wine, steak, or fresh seafood, and outdoor seating for pets.
The Eating Room – 107 E Citrus Ave, Redlands, CA
Casual, family-friendly, with generous plates and vintage vibes. Great for brunch after your morning session.
Redlands Public Market – 330 W Colton Ave, Redlands, CA
A beautiful modern food hall with a bit of everything—tacos, poke, coffee, crepes, even Lebanese cuisine. Lots of space to walk around and snap a few extra candids.
Uncorked on State – 404 E State St, Redlands, CA
Ideal for a relaxing post-session glass of wine. Order a charcuterie board and relive your favorite moments from the shoot.
Batter Rebellion – 5 E Citrus Ave, Redlands, CA
Cool atmosphere, modern American bites, and great cocktails. Bonus: excellent lighting for phone snaps if you want to post a sneak peek.
More Scenic Spots in Redlands for Follow-Up Shoots
Prospect Park isn’t the only beauty in town. If you fall in love with Redlands (and you probably will), here are a few nearby gems to explore for future photos:
Kimberly Crest House & Gardens – Elegant gardens and a castle-like home.
Lincoln Memorial Shrine & A.K. Smiley Library – Classic architecture with lush lawns and historical vibes.
Redlands Bowl – Beautifully maintained grounds and an amphitheater stage—especially magical at sunset.
For Nearby Families: Why Redlands is Worth the Drive
If you're living in surrounding cities like Riverside, Corona, Moreno Valley, Yucaipa, or Beaumont, Redlands is just a quick drive away—but it feels like an escape. It offers the charm of a small town with the photo-worthy locations of a much bigger city.
Families from Calimesa, Banning, and Highland love how peaceful it feels without sacrificing convenience. And if you're visiting from Big Bear, Arrowhead, or Crestline, this is the perfect way to get out of the mountains for the day and enjoy an open, sun-drenched setting without the snow gear.
A Father’s Day Session That’s Actually About Him
This isn’t about matching outfits and stiff poses. It’s about the way he laughs when the dog jumps up mid-photo. The way he carries the baby on his shoulders or tries to act like he doesn’t love being covered in kids and fur—but he totally does. These moments deserve to be framed, shared, and passed down.
This year, let’s capture a Father’s Day that actually feels like your family. Messy, playful, joyful, real.
Book Your Session Today
At Last Minute Photoshoot, we specialize in photographing real families—including the four-legged members. Whether you're celebrating Father’s Day, honoring a beloved pet, or simply overdue for a photo that includes everyone, we’d love to be part of your story.
📸 Click here to book your Redlands session now
Don’t wait for the perfect moment. Let’s create it—together.