Location Ideas
Here are some examples of locations I’ve photographed at to get you thinking about the type of scenery you like best! The names of my most highly recommended locations are circled in yellow. Click on any photo to expand it. Travel fees may apply outside OC.
Orange County
This is a personal favorite location of mine. It’s in a somewhat hidden area and I stumbled upon it in 2016. I’ve been taking photos there ever since and have never seen another photographer there. That’s a BIG DEAL for making a portrait session as fun and relaxing as possible!
Anaheim
There’s a $25 permit fee required here. No balloons or props of any kind allowed. The parking lot is about a 10 minute walk from these portrait spots and the path is not paved so it’s not a great location for those with limited mobility. There are usually a few other photographers as it’s a popular spot for family portraits and weddings. I only recommend this location if you’re worried about driving distance from where you’re based compared to the portrait session location.
Costa Mesa
Dana Point
All the spots shown here are within a 7 minute drive of my studio (some of them are literally steps from the front door!) That makes my studio an ideal “home base” for hair & makeup, wardrobe changes, etc. If you want the most luxurious experience, combined with the most variety in possible backgrounds, this is my number one recommendation. If we decide to do you photo selection immediately following your session, you’ll be able to easily come back to the studio to see your images right away.
Fullerton
There is a permit fee to enter this park as it’s maintained by the County. I only recommend it if it’s conveniently located for you.
Irvine
My preferred Irvine locations are not recommended on weekends or during holiday seasons due to the amount of people during those times.
Laguna Beach
The city of Laguna requires a $100 permit for all photography on city property which includes beaches and parks. Most of my clients who choose this location have a sentimental reason for doing so (e.g., it’s where he proposed or it’s where they went on their first date, etc.) If there’s no true reason for choosing Laguna, I highly recommend Dana Point instead where the parking, traffic, and crowds are all better and no permits are required.
Laguna Hills
Laguna Niguel
This location is about 10 minutes away from my studio so we can still do hair & makeup there and then travel to this spot. It’s a hidden gem - I’ve never seen another portrait session taking place here. The backgrounds are a combination of ocean, grass, and rocky hillside. It’s about a 5 minute walk from the free parking area, and does involve walking on some uneven/unpaved paths and going up and down stairs so it’s not ideal for those with limited mobility. If you want ocean views without having to go to the beach, this is the spot.
