Cabrillo National Monument

I really love shooting at Cabrillo. Its the perfect mixture of historic buildings and seascapes. Against the stunning coastal backdrop of Cabrillo National Monument in San Diego, this engagement shoot captured the couple’s love on 35mm film, giving the images a vintage charm. The golden light of sunset reflected off the rugged cliffs, enhancing the timeless feel of each frame. With a focus on candid posing, I like to create images that show authentic moments and feet effortless yet beautifully composed. The grain of the film and the soft, muted tones add to the romantic nostalgia, making every shot a piece of art infused with emotion.

The park closes at 5 unfortunately so you cant always get golden hour there but its still worth it.

Balboa park

Balboa park is a classic. There are so many locations to shoot at here. An engagement shoot at Balboa Park on 35mm film brings a vintage romance to life, with the park’s historic architecture and lush gardens setting the scene. The soft grain and warm tones of film enhance the timeless elegance of the couple’s love story, as they move naturally through the arched walkways and sun-dappled courtyards. Focusing on candid posing I like to capture stolen glances, laughter, and gentle embraces, creating images that feel effortless and full of emotion. Each frame is a perfect blend of classic beauty and genuine connection, frozen in time on film.

Sunset cliffs

Sunset cliffs is a classic. I went to college right next to this park actually. Perched on the edge of Sunset Cliffs, an engagement session here embraces the raw beauty of the Pacific, captured on 35mm film for a timeless, vintage feel. I focus on candid posing and creating romantic and effortless portraits that felt both intimate. The natural grain of film, combined with the soft ocean breeze, added depth to the fine art photography, while the soft, organic tones of the setting sun painted each frame with warmth and nostalgia, preserving their love story in the most timeless way.

Torrey Pines

Against the dramatic cliffs of Torrey Pines, an engagement session here in the warm glow of the setting sun, captured on 35mm film has a vintage and timeless feel. Torrey Pines State Natural Reserve is a breathtaking coastal park known for its dramatic cliffs, rare Torrey pine trees, and sweeping ocean views. Located just north of La Jolla, this protected reserve offers miles of scenic hiking trails that wind through sandstone bluffs, overlooking the Pacific.

Scripps Pier

Scripps Pier, located in La Jolla, San Diego, is an iconic landmark and a favorite spot for photographers, surfers, and sunset watchers. Officially known as the Ellen Browning Scripps Memorial Pier, it is part of the Scripps Institution of Oceanography at UC San Diego and serves as a research facility for oceanic and climate studies. While the pier itself is not open to the public, the beach surrounding it offers stunning views, soft sand, and a perfect setting for an engagement shoot.

This spot has dramatic leading lines, golden-hour glow, and the pier's pillars that frame the ocean. At low tide, the wet sand creates beautiful reflections, making it a dream location for candid and romantic portraits. Whether you're there to relax, surf, or capture the perfect shot on 35mm film, Scripps Pier is one of San Diego’s most picturesque coastal gems.

Buttercup Sand Dunes (Imperial Sand Dunes)

The Sand Dunes offer such a unique and dramatic setting, perfect for capturing romantic and cinematic moments. The soft, sweeping dunes create a sense of vastness and intimacy at the same time, making it an ideal spot for 35mm film shots, especially with the stunning light at sunrise or sunset.

These vast, golden dunes are part of the Imperial Sand Dunes Recreation Area (ISDRA) and stretch across the Sonoran Desert, offering a dramatic and otherworldly landscape.

The dunes are a popular destination for off-roading. with their rolling, untouched sand creating stunning visuals—perfect for fine art photography, elopement sessions, and cinematic 35mm film shots. The area is also known for its connection to Hollywood, having been featured in movies like Star Wars: Return of the Jedi.

If you're looking to do an engagement shoot here, the dunes offer soft, organic tones and a minimalist, dreamy backdrop, especially during golden hour or sunrise when the light creates long shadows and warm, glowing textures. Just be sure to check the weather and be prepared for the desert climate! It can get very hot here in the summer. It generally is ok in the evening but be sure to check.

Waterfront park

Waterfront Park is a beautiful public park located in downtown San Diego, right near the San Diego Bay. This park is known for its stunning water features, wide-open green spaces, and its modern design that blends nature with urban elements. It spans over 12 acres and is a popular spot for both locals and visitors to relax, enjoy the outdoors, or take in the views of the bay and downtown skyline.

For photographers, Waterfront Park offers a blend of urban and natural beauty. The water features make for dynamic and creative compositions, while the large, open spaces with views of the bay provide a beautiful backdrop for engagement shoots, family photos, or casual portraits. The park’s proximity to the water also allows for stunning sunset shots, with the light reflecting off the fountains and the bay.

Overall, Waterfront Park is an ideal location for a vibrant, modern photoshoot in downtown San Diego, especially if you’re looking for an urban oasis with plenty of space and visual interest.