Where to Take Your Engagement Photos in Southern California - California Wedding Photographer
Where to Take Your Engagement Photos Southern California
As an California engagement photographer, I always enjoy capturing couples in Southern California.
Los Angeles offers SO much variety for your engagement photos. The iconic Griffith Observatory provides a stunning backdrop of the city skyline against twinkling stars. If you prefer a coastal vibe, the Venice Canals have charming bridges and lush greenery. The vibrant LACMA Urban Light installation present a unique setting, while the scenic beauty of the Greystone Mansion Gardens is a more elegant and sophisticated location. With such a diverse range of photo locations, California offers couples endless choices for a personalized engagement shoot experience.
For more tips on things to do & places to see in SoCal, specifically Anaheim, check out this blog post!
The beaches of Southern California have some of the most stunning scenery in the world. There’s truly nothing like a West Coast sunset. From the rugged cliffs of Laguna Beach to the palm-lined shores of Santa Monica, every beach offers its own unique charm and beauty. Whether you're exploring the colorful tide pools of La Jolla, catching waves in Huntington Beach, or strolling along the iconic Venice Beach boardwalk, you'll be find yourself at peace surrounded by the sheer beauty surrounding you. If you are a huge Disney lover like me, you take your engagement photos at Disneyland, so they feel unique to you.
As a documentary style California photographer, I love to share my planning tips with you. In this blog post I’ve put together some beautiful locations that you can have your engagement photos taken at in Southern California!
As a thank you to my readers, all inquiries coming directly from this blog will have all travel fees waived!
Huntington Beach, California
Nestled along the sun-kissed shores of Southern California, Huntington Beach, known as "Surf City USA," is a vibrant city. Located in Orange County, Huntington Beach offers a perfect blend of natural beauty and a lively beach culture. With ten miles of pristine sandy beaches to explore, this destination is a paradise for surfers & beach lovers. The iconic Huntington Beach Pier serves as the focal point of the city, attracting locals and tourists alike to enjoy breathtaking views of the Pacific Ocean. With its iconic pier standing tall against the backdrop of endless ocean views, Huntington Beach is the epitome of laid-back beach culture.
Beyond its natural beauty, the city boasts a lively and diverse community that thrives on a blend of surf culture, outdoor adventures, and a thriving arts scene. Huntington Beach offers a wide range of experiences for visitors and locals alike. Whether it's catching a wave, strolling along the bustling Pacific Coast Highway, or simply basking in the California sunshine, Huntington Beach beckons visitors to slow down, relax, and savor the coastal charm that makes it such a beloved destination. With its vibrant downtown area filled with surf shops, restaurants, and entertainment venues, Huntington Beach guarantees an unforgettable experience for those seeking to immerse themself in the city's vibrant beach culture.
Bonus tip: head to a coffee shop for some cozy coffee photos after the beach! My personal recommendation is Sur Coffee.
Griffith Observatory - Los Angeles, California
Griffith Observatory is an iconic landmark nestled in the hills of Los Angeles, offering breathtaking views of the city's skyline. With its distinctive Art Deco architecture, the observatory stands as a gateway to the wonders of the universe. Visitors can explore the various exhibits, which showcase the marvels of astronomy, space exploration, and the history of the observatory itself. From the observatory, you can have incredible views of the Los Angeles skyline, making it the perfect backdrop for your California engagement photos!
Long Beach, California
Located in Southern California, Long Beach is a vibrant and diverse city that encapsulates the essence of coastal living. With its stunning views of the Pacific Ocean and its bustling boardwalk, Long Beach offers endless opportunities for outdoor activities and relaxation. The city is known for its lively arts and culture scene, featuring a thriving music and theater community. Long Beach is also home to the historic Queen Mary ship and the picturesque Aquarium of the Pacific, attracting visitors from all over the world. From its beautiful beaches to its charming neighborhoods and culinary delights, Long Beach is a captivating destination that embodies the laid-back California lifestyle.
Long Beach, California boasts a vibrant and diverse nightlife scene, with an array of local bars to cater to every taste and preference. Whether you're seeking a laid-back atmosphere or an upscale experience, there's something for everyone in this coastal city. From trendy wine bars to old-school dive bars, Long Beach has it all.
My favorite part about Long Beach is that if you want to start your engagement photos down by the water for sunset, you can take some gorgeous, romantic beach photos - and then head to a local bar for some fun flash photos enjoying a drink together!
Some local bars I recommend are: The Grasshopper, Vine, & Art Du Vine.
Santa Monica Pier - Santa Monica, California
Santa Monica Pier is a vibrant and iconic landmark located in Santa Monica, California. As one of the most popular attractions in Los Angeles County, the pier offers a mix of entertainment, shopping, and breathtaking ocean views. The pier is famously known for its colorful Ferris wheel, which adds a touch of whimsy to the coastal skyline. You can take a stroll along the wooden planks, explore the numerous souvenir shops, and enjoy classic carnival games and rides. Santa Monica Pier is perfect for a fun loving couple who wants a mix of romantic beach photos and fun & whimsical photos!
El Matador State Beach - Malibu, California
El Matador State Beach, located on the picturesque Pacific Coast Highway in Malibu, California, is a true gem of the Southern California coastline. Known for its rugged beauty and stunning rock formations, this beach offers visitors a unique and enchanting experience. As you descend down the steep staircase, you are greeted with breathtaking panoramic views of the sparkling turquoise waters and towering cliffs. The crashing waves, golden sand, and hidden coves create a tranquil ambiance, perfect for long walks, sunbathing, or simply enjoying the sound of the ocean. The dramatic coastline, framed by mountains in the distance, creates a stunning backdrop for beachgoers to soak in the serenity of Southern California.
35mm Film For Your California Engagement Photos
35mm film photography holds a nostalgic charm that continues to captivate photographers and enthusiasts alike. This traditional analog format evokes a sense of authenticity, with its grainy texture and rich tonal range. Shooting with 35mm film not only challenges photographers to be mindful of every frame they capture but also encourages a more deliberate approach to the art form. Each roll of film holds a limited number of exposures, rendering each shot more precious and intentional. The process of developing and printing the film adds an element of anticipation and excitement, as one waits to see the final results. 35mm film photography is a timeless medium that offers a unique and tangible experience, reminding us of the beauty and simplicity of capturing moments on a physical medium.
Disneyland - Anaheim, California
If you are a huge disney lover like me, then there’s nothing more exciting then the lights down main street in Disneyland!
You can combine your love for disney with your engagement photos so they feel unique to you.
Every corner of the park is bursting with vibrant colors and attention to detail. Disneyland's scenery is nothing short of breathtaking, a testament to the park's commitment to creating a truly magical experience for visitors of all ages.
Palihouse - Santa Monica, California
Palihouse in Santa Monica, CA offers a unique and luxurious experience to its guests. Nestled on the vibrant streets of Santa Monica, this captivating boutique hotel effortlessly blends old-world charm with contemporary elegance. The stunning architecture and stunning interior design are a testament to the hotel's commitment to creating a stylish and welcoming atmosphere. The location of Palihouse is very ideal, as it allows guests to easily explore the local beaches, shops, and hotspots that define Santa Monica's unique character. Palihouse also has locations in Los Angeles, Santa Barbara, Carmel-by-the-Sea, San Francisco, and San Diego. A photography permit can be obtained online for $200.
Contact
If you are looking for a documentary & editorial engagement photographer for your California engagement photos, who offers location & outfit recommendations - you have definitely come to the right place. When you're ready to book, you can view my average investment and experience, see more of my portfolio work, and contact me!
As a thank you for reading along, all inquiries coming directly from this blog will receive all travel fees waived. Please link this blog in your inquiry form!
