Irvine Family Photographer – Zaydenberg Family at Jeffrey Trail

ZAYDENBERG FAMILY PHOTOS AT JEFFREY OPEN SPACE TRAIL

Close-up of a mother holding her young daughter during a family photoshoot in Irvine.

I’ve known Ilya for years — we met on the set of Indiana Jones and the Kingdom of the Crystal Skull — so getting to photograph his family at Jeffrey Open Space Trail in Irvine was something I genuinely looked forward to. His wife and three kids were awesome to work with. We chose this spot not just because it’s scenic, but because it’s close, quiet, and easy with kids — perfect for a relaxed family session in Irvine.

If you're searching for an Irvine family photographer or a location that keeps things simple and stress-free, Jeffrey Trail always delivers.

Brothers laughing together during a family photo session in Irvine, CA with photographer Venya Manzyuk.

Why I love Jeffrey Trail for Family Photoshoots

ROOM TO MOVE, EVEN FOR TODDLERS

One of the things I love most about Jeffrey Trail is how low-pressure it feels for families with young kids. There’s plenty of space to move, run, and explore without worrying about cars, crowds, or mud. The path is wide and smooth, the grass is soft, and there’s enough visual interest that we don’t have to pose much to get great shots. This kind of space lets kids just be kids — which always makes for better photos.

Happy Zaydenberg family posing for a portrait at Jeffrey Trail, Irvine. Photo by Venya Manzyuk.

GORGEOUS LIGHT YOU DONT HAVE TO CHASE

The light at Jeffrey Trail filters through the eucalyptus trees beautifully during golden hour. Unlike the beach, where the sun can be harsh until the very end, the trees here provide open shade much earlier, giving us a longer window of perfect, flattering light.

Heartwarming family portrait of the Zaydenbergs at Jeffrey Trail

VARIETY WITHOUT THE HASSLE

We’re able to hit multiple looks in a short amount of time. In this one loop, you get a mix of greens, warm browns, and neutral stone textures — perfect for families who want a little variety but don’t want to be out shooting for hours. I try to keep sessions moving, and this spot makes that easy. It’s five steps between one background and the next, which means more genuine moments and fewer “wait, where are we going next?” pauses.

Close-up of mother and daughter hugging during a family photoshoot at Jeffrey Trail in Irvine, CA.
Family photo session at Jeffrey Trail in Irvine: Mother and daughter walking.
Girl in green dress walks Jeffrey Trail, Irvine. Family photo session, grassy path, pigtails.
Family watching their daughter play among rocks at sunset in Jeffrey Trail, Irvine.
Zaydenberg family portrait at Jeffrey Trail, Irvine. Photo by Venya Manzyuk.
Family portrait at Jeffrey Trail: Parents hugging daughter on their lap during sunset.
Young boy staring straight into the camera.
Family portrait at Jeffrey Trail: Close-up of parents and son.
Child hangs from tree branch during family photo session at Jeffrey Trail, Irvine.
Close up shot of a young boy and his hands.
Young boy in a brown sweater making a silly face.
Young boy making a goofy face.
Close-up of baby and father, family photo session.
Woman posing by rock at Jeffrey Trail, Irvine, CA. Family portrait photography.
Portrait of woman in beige dress at scenic Jeffrey Trail, Irvine. Natural light photography.
Family at sunset on Jeffrey Trail, Irvine. Father and sons sitting on rock during photo session.
Two young brothers share a heartfelt hug during their family photo session in Irvine, CA.
Boy sitting in the dirt playing with a stick as his brother watches.

Related Sessions

A grandfather sitting on a rock holding a baby while grandchildren play nearby during an extended family session at Jeffrey Open Space Trail in Irvine.

BISHOP FAMILY

JEFFREY OPEN SPACE TRAIL

A family of four walking naturally along a dirt path under large trees at Laguna Niguel Regional Park.

PFEIFFER FAMILY

LAGUNA NIGUEL REGIONAL PARK

A family with teenagers sitting together on a modern outdoor patio during a lifestyle photography session on Lido Island in Newport Beach.

MALIS FAMILY

LIDO ISLAND

Frequently Asked Questions

  • Absolutely. Most of the families I work with have kids in different stages — babies, toddlers, teens, or some mix of all three. I’ll guide the session in a way that keeps things moving and makes room for each kid’s personality to come through. The Zaydenbergs had a full crew and it worked out beautifully. No stress, no forced smiles.

  • Think neutral, comfortable, and layered — something you’d actually wear, just a little more pulled together. The location already gives us a lot of natural color and texture, so your outfits don’t need to compete. If you’re not sure where to start, I’m happy to give input or send a few references based on the season and vibe you're going for.

  • Yep — if you’re not set on a specific spot, I’ll help you find one that works for your family. Whether you want something woodsy like Jeffrey Trail, a beach, or a clean architectural look, I’ve shot all over Orange County and can suggest options based on light, accessibility, and crowd levels.