The Best Engagement Photo Locations in Southern California for Your Dream Session

Southern California

Stephanie Ip Photography

Posted on April 30, 2025

Top Engagement Photo Locations in Southern California

First off, huge congratulations on your engagement! This is such an exciting time, and capturing your love story through photos is a beautiful way to cherish these moments forever.

Choosing the perfect spot for your engagement photos can feel overwhelming with so many stunning locations around Southern California. But don’t worry, I’ve got you covered! Whether you’re dreaming of beach vibes, urban settings, or lush gardens, there’s a perfect backdrop waiting for you.

Let’s explore some of the top spots that not only provide breathtaking scenery but also set the mood for your unique love story.

Direct anchor links below

Not Sure Which Engagement Photo Spot Is Totally You?

For the Adventurous Souls: Worth-the-Drive Engagement Locations

Big Bear Lake
Joshua Tree National Park

Beachside Bliss

Golden hour by the water never gets old. Whether it’s the cliffs of Palos Verdes, the soft sands of Laguna Beach, or the iconic coastlines of Malibu, these are some of the best outdoor engagement photo locations in Southern California. If you’re wondering where to take engagement photos near Los Angeles with dreamy sunsets and ocean breeze, this is it.

El Matador State Beach – Malibu

Vibe: Romantic and dramatic with rugged cliffs and sea caves.
Best Time: Sunset for that golden glow.
Tips: Weekdays are less crowded. Be prepared for a short hike down to the beach.
Why It’s Great: The unique rock formations and crashing waves create a cinematic backdrop for your photos.

Dreamy rock formations, golden sunsets, and endless waves make El Matador a favorite for adventurous couples. The beach looks best during golden hour, but weekdays are a must to avoid crowds.

Pro tip: Bring a second pair of shoes — the rocky path down can be tricky in dress shoes or heels!

Laguna Beach – Orange County

Vibe: Artistic and serene with tide pools and coves.
Best Time: Early morning or golden hour.
Tips: Explore different spots like Treasure Island Park for varied scenery.
Why It’s Great: The combination of sandy beaches and rocky outcrops offers diverse photo opportunities.

From secret coves to colorful tide pools, Laguna Beach brings serious charm for couples who love a laid-back coastal vibe. Early mornings or golden hour light up the cliffs and beaches with a soft, magical glow.

Pro tip: Treasure Island Park has hidden stairways and rocky corners perfect for romantic, tucked-away shots!

Nature’s Embrace

Rolling hills, wildflowers, and scenic overlooks — perfect for couples who love to wander. From forested trails to sunlit meadows, these Southern California engagement session spots are ideal for those looking for peaceful, earthy backdrops. When you’re searching for romantic places for engagement photos in SoCal, nature always delivers.

Griffith Park – Los Angeles

Vibe: Urban wilderness with panoramic city views.
Best Time: Morning or late afternoon.
Tips: The trail to the Wisdom Tree offers a secluded spot with a stunning backdrop.
Why It’s Great: You get a mix of nature and iconic LA views, perfect for adventurous couples.

Panoramic city views, golden hillsides, and those classic SoCal sunsets — Griffith Park is perfect if you want a mix of nature and skyline. There’s plenty of space to roam, from open trails to shady oak groves.

Pro tip: Hike up to the Griffith Observatory trail early to catch the soft morning light (and beat the crowds!).

Vasquez Rocks – Agua Dulce

Vibe: Otherworldly with unique rock formations.
Best Time: Late afternoon for softer light.
Tips: Wear comfortable shoes for climbing rocks.
Why It’s Great: The dramatic landscape adds a touch of adventure and uniqueness to your photos.

If you’re craving something a little more rugged and adventurous, Vasquez Rocks delivers. The wild, jagged rock formations feel straight out of a movie (and they are — Star Trek fans, anyone?).

Pro tip: Sunset here is unreal, but bring water — it can get toasty even in spring and fall!

Urban Charm

Modern skylines, artsy walls, and architecture with personality — for the couple who loves a little city edge. These top engagement photo spots in Los Angeles and Orange County are perfect for showing off your style in the heart of the city. If you’re looking for engagement photoshoot locations near Los Angeles that feel fun and fashion-forward, urban settings have plenty to offer.

Walt Disney Concert Hall – Downtown LA

Vibe: Modern and sleek with metallic architecture.
Best Time: Morning for softer light and fewer crowds.
Tips: The reflective surfaces create interesting lighting effects.
Why It’s Great: The contemporary design offers a chic and sophisticated backdrop.

Sleek lines, mirrored surfaces, and modern architecture make Walt Disney Concert Hall a dream spot for city lovers. Every corner has something creative to play with, from reflections to dramatic shadows.

Pro tip: Morning sessions are best for softer light and fewer downtown crowds.

Pasadena City Hall – Pasadena

Vibe: Classic and elegant with European-inspired architecture.
Best Time: Early morning or late afternoon.
Tips: The arches and staircases provide romantic settings.
Why It’s Great: The timeless architecture adds a touch of grandeur to your photos.

Classic, elegant, and full of old-world charm, Pasadena City Hall feels like stepping into a European plaza. The soft neutral tones and grand arches are perfect for timeless, romantic portraits.

Pro tip: Get there early — it’s a popular wedding and engagement spot for good reason!

Garden Romance

From curated rose gardens to lush greenhouses and quiet corners tucked into historic estates, this vibe is for couples who want something soft and timeless. These locations top the list of best engagement photo locations in Southern California for a romantic, storybook feel. Looking for engagement session location ideas with flowers in bloom? This is your vibe.

Huntington Library & Botanical Gardens – San Marino

Vibe: Lush and diverse with themed gardens.
Best Time: Spring for blooming flowers.
Tips: Check for permit requirements and book in advance.
Why It’s Great: From Japanese gardens to rose gardens, the variety allows for multiple looks in one location.

A stunning blend of gardens from around the world — think lush rose gardens, dreamy Japanese gardens, and sun-drenched cactus fields. Huntington is the ultimate choice for couples who want variety without hopping locations.

Pro tip: Reserve your photo permit early and bring comfy shoes — you’ll want to explore it all!

Descanso Gardens – La Cañada Flintridge

Vibe: Tranquil and colorful with seasonal blooms.
Best Time: Spring and fall.
Tips: Arrive early to avoid crowds and capture the morning light.
Why It’s Great: The peaceful ambiance and vibrant flora create a romantic setting.

Colorful blooms, shady oak trees, and charming walkways make Descanso Gardens a peaceful and romantic option. It’s perfect if you want a garden vibe without the hustle of a huge tourist attraction.

Pro tip: Spring and fall offer the most vibrant color — and early morning shoots mean softer light and cooler temps.

Not Sure Which Engagement Photo Spot Is Totally You?

Let’s find out — it’s quick, I promise!

1. Your ideal weekend looks like:

🌲 A hike with epic views and no cell service.
🌊 Long walks on the beach (barefoot, obviously).
🌸 Strolling through a garden, latte in hand.
🏙️ Checking out art exhibits and cute city cafes.

2. Your dream engagement session vibe:

✨ Wild and adventurous — give me nature!
💖 Romantic and relaxed — sand between my toes.
🌼 Whimsical and colorful — flowers everywhere.
🖤 Cool and modern — a little editorial edge.

3. Your must-have photo backdrop:

🏔️ Mountains or desert landscapes.
🌅 Beach cliffs and ocean waves.
🌻 Flower gardens and dreamy pathways.
🏛️ Bold architecture and city streets.

🎉 Your Results:

🔹 Mostly A’s:

You’re made for Big Bear, Joshua Tree, or Vasquez Rocks — places where adventure meets jaw-dropping scenery!

🔹 Mostly B’s:

Bring on the beachy romance! Laguna Beach or El Matador Beach are calling your name.

🔹 Mostly C’s:

You’re a garden soul — Huntington Library or Descanso Gardens would be pure magic for your photos.

🔹 Mostly D’s:

City vibes fit you perfectly — Walt Disney Concert Hall or Pasadena City Hall will give you those stylish, polished shots.

For the Adventurous Souls: Worth-the-Drive Engagement Locations

If you’re dreaming of something a little more epic for your engagement session — something that feels like a mini adventure — you’re in for a treat.

Here are two locations just a short drive from LA that are totally worth the extra mileage (and trust me, the photos will be next-level):

Big Bear Lake

Vibe: Cozy, storybook woods meets lakeside romance.

If you’ve ever wanted that mountain cabin feel without leaving Southern California, Big Bear is your spot. Think pine trees, golden fields, a sparkling lake, and the kind of light that feels straight out of a movie.

Why It’s Perfect:

You get four seasons — snowy magic in winter, golden hues in fall, lush greens in spring.
Tons of variety: cozy cabins, lakeside strolls, forest trails.
Cooler temps — perfect if you’re escaping the summer heat.

Pro Tip:

Weekdays are best for avoiding weekend crowds, and sunset by the lake is just chef’s kiss. Plan for at least a 2-hour session to make the most of the trip (and maybe a quick outfit change to mix it up)!

Picture cozy cabins, tall pines, and sparkling lake views — Big Bear gives you that mountain magic without leaving SoCal. Whether you want woodsy trails or a lakeside picnic, it’s got all the storybook feels. Pro tip: Plan a weekday golden hour shoot for quieter vibes (and maybe bring a cozy blanket for snuggly shots by the water!).

Joshua Tree National Park

Vibe: Dreamy desert, wide open skies, and bold, artsy landscapes.

There’s just something about Joshua Tree that feels magical. It’s where minimalism meets epic drama — with giant boulders, twisted Joshua Trees, and pastel sunsets that turn the whole park into a painting.

Why It’s Perfect:

Insane golden hour light — you’ll literally glow.
Unique desert backdrops you can’t find anywhere else in SoCal.
Perfect for couples who love a little adventure and aren’t afraid to get a little sandy.

Pro Tip:

Because of the drive and the light, I recommend planning your shoot around sunset — and definitely aim for a 2-hour session so we can explore multiple spots without rushing. Bring water, comfy shoes, and a sense of adventure!

Wild, raw, and endlessly beautiful, Joshua Tree is pure magic for adventurous hearts. Giant boulders, twisting Joshua Trees, and pastel desert skies create a surreal, cinematic backdrop you can’t get anywhere else. Pro tip: Sunset is stunning, but blue hour (right after sunset) brings out the dreamiest soft light — worth sticking around for!

Still not sure which one fits you best? Let’s chat!

I’d love to hear more about your vision and help you pick a location that feels like you. Your adventure is just getting started, and I can’t wait to help capture it.