On a crisp morning in April, the Parks Conservancy and the Presidio Trust made in a 46-cubic yards of soil, enough to feed tens of thousands of native plants throughout the parks. The “recipe” and procedure behind this many-handed effort is a must-read for any dirt devotee.

A photo is the perfect keepsake from your adventure in the Golden Gate National Parks. Our staff photographers share their top tips for being a better shutterbug while out in your coastal parklands.