About San Rafael
The San Rafael Mission was built in 1817, and although the city’s grown still then, San Rafael’s tag line is the City with a Mission. Today, that mission is to provide the best place for California residents to live, raise their families, work, and for visitors. The San Rafael Mission still stands and welcomes visitors and guests through its doors as well.
San Rafael is located in the San Francisco Bay area, specifically the North Bay, and is within Marin County. It’s a popular residential city, home to many businesses, and offers a mix of outdoor recreation and green space within the city. The coastline, architecture, and climate have been attracting residents and professionals alike (including George Lucas!) for decades.
Photo Shoot Venue Options in San Rafael
Photo shoot venue options in San Rafael feature the city’s famous architecture, scenic vistas out the windows of indoor space, and the modern conveniences that photography professionals crave and need. The companies that serve the city are used to working with and providing the best.
- Catering
You don’t need to be in the biggest cities to get the best catering experiences, as San Rafael’s catering companies demonstrate. They offer a variety of cuisines and will transport you to another part of the world with these mouth-watering and flavorful dishes. You can also get your favorite comfort foods and American classics if you prefer.
- Equipment and Furniture Rentals
We believe in traveling light. As such, one of the first things we do in any new city identifies the furniture and equipment rental companies. Luckily, San Rafael is ready for people like us, and there are plenty of companies that can rent out whatever is needed for your photo shoot.
- Transportation
Even with the advent of Siri, Google Maps, and all the other technology we have, getting somewhere new can still be a headache. That’s why we love the private and public transportation options that make travel to and within San Rafael such a breeze.
Photo Shoot Venue Companies in San Rafael
Style. Class. Service. These are a few of the words that describe the photo shoot venue companies in San Rafael. Their commitment to offering the absolute best is second to none.
- Marin Catering Company
Marin Catering Company offers superior menus. The list of companies they’ve worked with include giants like BMW and CVS. They also cater for weddings, small events, photo shoots, or other private gatherings. You can order something as simple as their boxed meals or go all out with their full-service catering options.
- Sunrise Home
Details matter and Sunrise Home will ensure that your attention to detail is noticed in the photos you produce. They are a fashion-forward leader and will inspire you with the items available in the showroom. They also offer design services and help as needed.
- North Bay Shuttle
Go alone or go with a group – your choice when you select North Bay Shuttle. They offer shuttle services as well as private transportation options in and around the North Bay area. Their customizable schedule and efficiency ensure that you get to your destination on time, every time.
Pros and Cons of Photo Shoot Venues in San Rafael
There are pros and cons of photo shoot venues in San Rafael, and as much as we love the city, you should take a minute to skim the list before booking your space.
Advantages
- Climate
Let’s give the Mediterranean climate a big shout-out. It’s quite possibly the best advantage that San Rafael has, but that’s a matter of personal preference. The weather here is the Mediterranean climate that makes the Bay Area famous and puts a smile on everyone’s face.
- Green Transportation Initiatives
Walk or bike? You choose, but there are many green transportation initiatives within San Rafael that make it an even better place to visit, live, or work. These options don’t work for everyone, and there are still plenty of other transportation options, but we appreciate the city’s forward-thinking approach to transportation.
- Scenic Beauty
Who doesn’t want to sit on a park bench or other scenic area and gaze off at the San Francisco Bay? The rolling hills of San Rafael add to its allure and create plenty of scenic viewpoints where you can enjoy the city and surrounding area.
Disadvantages
- Earthquake Zone
Unfortunately, the San Francisco Bay area is also home to a number of fault lines that increase the earthquake risk for the cities in the area. Of course, earthquakes aren’t always devastating events, but they should always be taken seriously.
- Sleepy City
San Rafael can be what we call a “sleepy city” meaning that a lot of the people that live here are commuters, so the nightlife and other cultural opportunities aren’t as plentiful as in other cities. As a commuter city, you’ll find more residential areas and perhaps fewer choices when it comes to selecting a photo shoot venue.
- Cost
The housing market in San Rafael is 45% higher than in other areas – one of the reasons is that so many people want to live in this commuter city. However, this also drives the cost up of other goods and services in the city, so plan accordingly.
Famous Locations in San Rafael
- Church of Saint Raphael
All are welcome, any denomination or atheists as well, to view the stunning architecture and beauty of the Church of Saint Raphael. You can also visit the original San Rafael Mission that was built in 1817 while you are here. Be sure to take a look at some of the amazing artwork too.
- McNears Beach County Park
Visiting the beach is a must while you’re in San Rafael. McNears Beach County Park is 55-acres and is situated along the San Pablo Bay, in a cove. This makes it a protected area and relaxing place to view and enjoy the water. You can hike, picnic, swim, kayak, or fish here. Or just sit back and enjoy the view.
- ArtWorks Downtown
Enjoy their art walk or the two levels of art in their studios that are open from Thursday through Saturday. ArtWorks Downtown captures the best art that San Rafael has to offer in one location and with the events that they host. With showings from locals as well as international artists, there is something for everyone to enjoy.