TOP LOS ANGELES
Wedding, portrait AND ENGAGEMENT LOCATIONS
This session planning guide offers an exhaustive list of recommended Los Angeles portrait locations.
Although tourists or private citizens can take photos almost anywhere, professional photographers are often constrained by local laws or by regulations enforced by private property owners.
location information
Regrettably, many locations in Los Angeles require some permit or special property permission—for portrait photographers or wedding photographers.
I typically recommend a location where we'll be isolated from large groups and other distractions. For this reason, early morning sessions at beach locations are advised to avoid the crowds that arrive mid-morning and typically leave around sunset.
Likewise, for urban locations like downtown Los Angeles and Old Town Pasadena, We recommend early morning sessions when many businesses are closed and the sidewalks are mostly deserted.
Choosing times when bystanders and observers are absent improves your ability to focus and expands my options regarding photographic locations at that venue.
In most cases, we typically discourage choosing multiple locations during your session as we can easily spend 2 hours at most of these locations without exhausting the most apparent photographic opportunities.
If you're set on choosing multiple locations, I'll undoubtedly oblige your request. However, please remember that since your session time is continuous, the time we spend moving between locations reduces the amount of time that I'll spend photographing you.
If you'd like to be photographed at a location not listed here, please let me know. We can discuss whether your proposed location will present any legal, photographic, or situational challenges.
Favorite locations
As a dedicated Los Angeles photographer, I've had the incredible privilege of photographing a diverse array of subjects in hundreds of unique and captivating locations throughout the region.
However, among all these stunning spots, my absolute favorite locations are the enchanting LA Arboretum, the iconic Pasadena City Hall, the lively Santa Monica Pier, the breathtaking El Matador Beach, and the architectural marvel that is Walt Disney Hall.
It's important to remember that we frequently update this list with exciting and fresh places to shoot! Southern California truly offers endless opportunities for striking photography and is undoubtedly the best location in the country for those seeking exceptional backdrops for their memorable moments.
nature locations
ARBORETUM OF LOS ANGELES COUNTY (PERMIT / TRAVEL FEE REQUIRED)
Located in Arcadia, California (near the Santa Anita Race Track), the LA Arboretum offers a superb garden setting ideal for portrait photography. This location requires a permit fee of $50 for walk-on access or $300 for a chauffeured golf cart (advanced booking required).
We typically start at 2:30 pm, and this location is generally better to shoot in the evening. You usually can't enter the park before 9:00 a.m.
If you choose the golf cart, we can cover quite a bit more ground than we could by walking alone, but that is admittedly an additional expense. If you've arranged a chauffeured golf cart, you'll want to ask them to meet us at the gated entrance near the gift shop. If we're walking, we'll meet outside the main doors to the Arboretum entrance.
Important: This location no longer allows clothing changes, on-site hair stylists, or tag-along makeup artists, therefore we recommend a single outfit for this particular location.
More information about how to acquire a permit is available here or you can call (626) 821-3244. The official Arboretum address is 301 N Baldwin Ave, Arcadia, CA 91007. Parking is free.
ARLINGTON GARDEN (PERMIT / TRAVEL FEE REQUIRED)
This little-known oasis offers us a great location for a short portrait session. As Pasadena's only dedicated public garden, Arlington Garden is a great example of urban open space. Olive allee, succulents, cacti, sycamores, an orange grove, and pathways leading to a vernal pool make it a great location for photography.
Portraits for this location require an early morning or just-before-sunset start time in order for me to achieve best results. We'll meet at 295 Arlington Drive, Pasadena, CA 91105 where street parking is typically available and always free.
CALIFORNIA INSTITUTE OF TECHNOLOGY - CALTECH (PERMIT / TRAVEL FEE REQUIRED)
Caltech provides an amazing location with a wide range of varied architectural and green-space backgrounds. I lived less than a block away from Caltech for over 8 years so I'm quite familiar with this area. This location requires a $300 photo permit and offers availability after 5:30 p.m. on weekdays and anytime on weekends. However, I've been informed by some subjects that they may be offering discounted permits for as low as $50.
Please contact the permit office for more information about the permits or contact James Muro at the Caltech Ticket Office at events@caltech.edu or (626) 395-4652. You can also get started right now and download the application. We'll meet at the fountain in front of Millikan Library. Street parking is free and typically plentiful.
DESCANSO GARDENS (PERMIT + TRAVEL FEE REQUIRED)
Located in La Cañada Flintridge, Descanso Gardens offers an elegant background for engagement sessions. The gardens are available on weekdays from 9:00 a.m. to 4:00 p.m. and on weekends from 9:00 a.m. to 2:00 p.m. with a permit fee of $300 for engagement sessions lasting up to 2 hours.
The early morning light at Descanso Gardens is absolutely stunning — soft, flattering, and perfect for capturing romantic, natural moments before the grounds get too busy. With its lush pathways, seasonal blooms, and serene woodland backdrops, this location offers a timeless and peaceful setting that photographs beautifully year-round. Whether you're going for formal elegance or relaxed romance, Descanso’s scenery gives us plenty of variety within a short walking distance.
Because Descanso Gardens is such a carefully curated space, the permit ensures we have access to some of the most photogenic areas without interruption. It also means you’ll get a more relaxed experience — no crowds hovering nearby, no rushing to finish. We’ll have time to explore, pose naturally, and create a variety of looks that feel like you. This isn’t just a pretty location — it’s a place that elevates your engagement photos into something truly memorable.
You'll need to review their photo permit information and make a reservation via their Special Events Office at (818) 949-4291. For this location, I recommend a 9:00 a.m. start time. Parking is free. We'll meet at the seats immediately adjacent the main entrance ticket counters. The address is 1418 Descanso Dr, La Cañada Flintridge, CA 91011.
HUNTINGTON LIBRARY, ART COLLECTIONS, AND BOTANICAL GARDENS (PERMIT + TRAVEL FEE REQUIRED)
The Huntington Library in San Marino is a fantastic location for engagement session portraits. In fact, it's one of the finest and most varied garden settings in Southern California. In addition to a $300 refundable security deposit, the total fees for up to 3 hours of photography during non-public hours is $785. During public hours the fees are $885. Due to the size of the property and the limited time allowed, I recommend renting the Huntington's golf cart for $150.
Since my agreement and certificate of insurance is already on file, rather than the 30 days normally required and subject to availability, reservations may be made within 12-15 business days of your engagement session date.
The Huntington's public hours are from 10:30 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. on weekends. Monday and Wednesday to Friday hours are from noon to 4:30 p.m. with extended summer weekday hours of 10:30 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. from Memorial Day (last Monday in May) to Labor Day (first Monday in September). The Huntington is closed on Tuesdays. Therefore, your best times for an engagement session are between 7:30 a.m. and 10:30 a.m. or after 4:30 p.m. during summer months when sunset occurs later in the evening.
For more information about obtaining access, please contact Christine Springhorn at portraitphoto@huntington.org or (626) 405-3426. We'll meet the security guard escort near the ticket booth at the main entrance to the gardens. Parking is free. The address for the Huntington is 1151 Oxford Rd, San Marino, CA 91108.
LACY PARK (ENTRY FEE / TRAVEL FEE REQUIRED)
Lacy Park, located at 1485 Virginia Rd, San Marino, CA 91108 includes 35 acres of green grass and mature trees is situated on what were once General Patton's hunting grounds. Two paved paths trace the perimeter of the large central grassy area and provide a fair (but not great) backdrop for photography. Lacy Park's hours of operation are Monday to Friday (6:30 a.m. to Dusk), Weekend Hours (8:00 a.m. to 8:00 p.m. during Daylight Savings Time), and Weekend Hours (8:00 a.m. to 6:00 p.m. during Standard Time). Unless you're a resident of San Marino, there is a $3 entry fee on weekends.
O'MELVENY PARK
For our brides who love the ethereal look of winding trails and luscious greenery, O’Melveny Park is a great option. This park is always green, and showcases a beautiful lemon grove right at the entrance. As you walk through the pathways, you’ll find trees and quaint wooden fences lining the park.
O’Melveny Park is open from sunrise to sunset. Parking is free, however the parking lot can get full quickly, but if that is the case you are able to find parking on the street.
O’Melveny Park does require quite a bit of walking so make sure to bring comfortable shoes to your shoot!
O’Melveny Park is located in Granada Hills at 17300 Sesnon, Blvd, Granada Hills, CA 91344.
Placerita Canyon
Placerita Canyon is one of our favorite spots in the northern Los Angeles area for a rustic, woodsy portrait session. Nestled in the foothills of the Angeles National Forest just minutes from Valencia, this nature center offers a stunning variety of backdrops all within walking distance from the parking lot.
Expect to find beautiful oak-lined trails, charming wooden bridges, open golden fields, and even the historic Walker Cabin, which adds a vintage, Old West charm to your images. The diffused light under the tree canopy makes this location ideal for soft, flattering portraits even during brighter parts of the day — though golden hour here is truly magical.
This spot is perfect for:
Families with little ones who want room to explore
Engagement sessions with a rustic or nature-inspired vibe
Maternity sessions where flowing gowns can catch the canyon breeze
Couples or individuals who want an adventurous-yet-grounded feel
Pro Tip: During spring, wildflowers pop up along the trails — perfect for dreamy, romantic shots. In fall, the foliage turns golden, complementing neutral wardrobe palettes beautifully.
📍 Location: Santa Clarita – 19152 Placerita Canyon Rd, Newhall, CA
🅿️ Parking: Free and easy, right at the nature center
🚻 Facilities: Restrooms on-site
💡 Permits: No permit required for most sessions, but we recommend checking for groups or styled shoots
SAM MERRILL TRAIL HEAD (TRAVEL FEE REQUIRED)
If you’re looking for a wilderness background for your portrait session, then you might consider the Sam Merrill trail head at the entrance to the old Cobb Estate at the top of Lake Ave in Pasadena. This popular hiking location leads visitors to the lower San Gabriel mountains.
However, we’ll just step a few hundred yards off the road to get the photos we need. If you’ve ever hiked the Angeles National Park anywhere around Los Angeles, then you already have a pretty good idea as to the scenery you’ll find there. Please note that there are no restrooms or secluded changing areas at this location, unless you want to do your business behind a bush.
The footing is a little bit rough walking into this location so you might want to avoid your high heels until you get to where we're going to start the photography. Due to way I like to use the light at this location, we’ll want to start no later than 8:00 a.m. for morning portrait sessions and no earlier than 1.5 hours before sunset for evening sessions. I’ll meet you at the gated entrance to the trailhead where I’ll be sitting on my favorite rock with my camera in hand.
Lots of street parking is available, but you may need to walk just a bit to get to the entrance if lots of people are hiking out there. To get there, from the 210 freeway in Pasadena take Lake Avenue north 4 miles until you reach a sharp left turn. The trailhead is located right there at the intersection of Lake Ave and E Loma Alta Dr.
Summit Park
Summit Park is a hidden gem tucked into a quiet Valencia neighborhood, and it’s one of our go-to spots for clean, natural portraits with easy access and minimal crowds. This park offers a simple yet elegant setting that photographs beautifully — especially for families, maternity, and individual portraits.
What makes Summit Park shine is its beautiful landscaped greenery, tree-lined walkways, and charming fountain feature near the entrance. There’s also a lovely open lawn area and low stone walls that add subtle architectural interest without pulling focus from the people in front of the lens. The park has a soft, manicured aesthetic — perfect for those who prefer a more polished natural backdrop over rugged wilderness.
This spot is ideal for:
Families with small children who want a quick and easy session location
Maternity sessions looking for a peaceful, green environment
Headshots or branding photos with a serene, approachable feel
Seniors or teens who want clean backdrops and simple beauty
Pro Tip: This park gets gorgeous, warm light during golden hour. The fountain area in particular glows beautifully at sunset and makes for a stunning final shot in any session.
📍 Location: Valencia – 26111 McBean Pkwy, Santa Clarita, CA
🅿️ Parking: Free street parking directly outside the park
🚻 Facilities: No public restrooms, plan accordingly
💡 Permits: No permit required for casual sessions, though large groups may need approval
Vasquez Rocks
If you’re looking for something bold, cinematic, and uniquely Californian — Vasquez Rocks delivers in a big way. With its iconic jagged sandstone formations jutting toward the sky, this location feels more like a movie set than a park (and it has been one!). It's the perfect choice for clients who want to make a statement.
The dramatic rocks are just the beginning. You'll also find wide open desert views, natural trails, and areas with subtle textures and neutral tones that lend themselves beautifully to fine art portraiture. Whether you're going for a high-fashion maternity shoot, an epic engagement session, or a stylized family portrait, Vasquez Rocks provides a surreal and unforgettable backdrop.
This spot is perfect for:
Adventurous couples who love dramatic landscapes
Fashion-forward maternity sessions with wind-blown gowns
Seniors or teens who want something out-of-the-box
Cinematic family sessions for art-focused wall portraits
Pro Tip: The light reflects beautifully off the sandstone during golden hour, creating a warm glow that adds depth and contrast to your images. It can get windy here, so long flowing dresses and windswept hair look especially stunning.
📍 Location: Agua Dulce – 10700 Escondido Canyon Rd, Agua Dulce, CA
🅿️ Parking: Free lot and roadside parking available
🚻 Facilities: Restrooms available near the visitor center
💡 Permits: A permit may be required for professional sessions — we’ll guide you through the process if needed
ARCHITECTURE
CITY LOCATIONS
Walt Disney Concert Hall - Downtown Los Angeles
Disney Hall is a great location for both portraits and engagement sessions. It has amazing architecture, beautiful light, and we won't have to worry about official interference as professional photographers are welcome. For this location, we can start at any time of day as our time doesn't overlap with a concert. This is one of my favorite photography locations in Los Angeles.
At Disney Hall we typically prefer meeting in the early morning around 8:00 a.m. or in the late afternoon, a few hours before sunset. However, amazing light is available at this location almost anytime.
For parking, the most convenient is the Disney Hall underground garage. Weekday parking in the Disney Hall garage is $20 if you enter before 4:30 p.m. It's $9 after 4:30 p.m. Monday through Friday and on Saturday and Sunday. Street parking is sometimes available for $4 per hour but the 2-hour limit often means you'll have to leave a bit early to feed the meter. Street parking is free on Sundays. We'll meet at the front of the building at the corner of North Grand Avenue and West 1st Street. The address is 111 S Grand Ave, Los Angeles, CA 90012.
beverly Hills / Rodeo Drive
Beverly Hills isn’t often thought of as a go-to location for engagement photos, but this location offers a lot in the way of beautiful architecture and lends well to lifestyle photos. Between the iconic Beverly Hills sign and winding streets through Rodeo Drive, this location gives a unique feel that you can only find here.
We typically start our shoots at Beverly Hills Park. Here we can get a natural look with a lot of greenery. We can also use the trees with exposed roots to capture some dynamic, cinematic images.
Afterwards we can walk down Rodeo drive and capture more lifestyle images. While most of the shops are off-limits as they are private property, we can shoot on any of the public streets.
We highly recommend shooting here on weekends or very early in the morning. Like many locations, this particular one has many tourists that we have to shoot around.
Parking can be found on the street at Beverly Hills Park, and is meter-based.
BRADBURY BUILDING (PERMIT REQUIRED)
The Bradbury Building is an iconic downtown Los Angeles location, perhaps most famous for being prominently featured in the Harrison Ford film, “Blade Runner.” It’s also the oldest commercial building in the central city. This location requires a permit.
For more information about that permit, call (213) 626-1893. Due to the difficulties (and expense) related to obtaining a permit, this is not a recommended engagement session location. This address for this location is 304 Broadway, Los Angeles, CA 90013.
CHINATOWN
A portrait session in Chinatown works best in the early morning or late afternoon on Saturdays and Sundays. For a two hour engagement session, if you'd like, we can also visit nearby Walt Disney Concert Hall. Street parking is available and several nearby lots charge $5 for all day parking.
Although this was once a favorite downtown location, while photographing a 2013 engagement session I was told by a security guard that photography was not allowed without a permit. Even though I told the guard that the City of Los Angeles doesn't require a permit for photography in Chinatown, my arguments were rejected and we were asked to leave.
Because of this ejection, I now consider Chinatown a less-than-ideal location for engagement session photography. If you'd still like to choose this location, we'll meet at the east entrance to the Chinatown Central Plaza located at 943 N Broadway, Los Angeles, CA 90012.
Greystone Mansion & Gardens – Beverly Hills, CA
If you’re dreaming of a fairytale setting with timeless European charm, Greystone Mansion is the pinnacle of luxury portrait locations in Los Angeles. Located in the heart of Beverly Hills, this historic estate features impeccably manicured gardens, stone staircases, dramatic archways, and an iconic Tudor-style mansion that instantly elevates every frame.
The estate’s blend of old-world architecture and lush greenery makes it a stunning backdrop for everything from romantic engagement sessions to editorial-style maternity shoots. Every corner of the property offers another opportunity for a breathtaking portrait — from the ivy-covered walls to the balustrade-lined terraces overlooking the hills.
This spot is perfect for:
Couples wanting an elegant and romantic pre-wedding session
Maternity clients with couture gowns looking for a magazine-worthy setting
Family portraits with a fine art approach
Branding or headshot sessions with a regal, professional aesthetic
Pro Tip: The mansion’s gardens are at their most magical in the late afternoon light. Neutral tones, flowing fabrics, and heels (with a backup pair of flats for walking) work best here. This is one of the few locations where dressing up is absolutely encouraged.
📍 Location: 905 Loma Vista Dr, Beverly Hills, CA
🅿️ Parking: Free parking lot at the bottom of the hill; short walk to the estate
🚻 Facilities: Restrooms available near the main gardens
💡 Permits: Photography permits are required for all professional shoots — we can assist in securing approval ahead of time
Griffith Park
Griffith Observatory is a famous Los Angeles landmark in the heart of Griffith Park. Situated on the top of a hill with the Hollywood sign in the near distance, I sometimes receive requests for portrait photography at this location. However, due to the popularity of this landmark as a tourist location, parking can be extremely difficult, sometimes necessitating parking on the side of the road far down the hill and walking up to the observatory.
The observatory is also a common and central location for many groups meeting for weekend activities (like bikers, runners, or hikers). Heavy car and pedestrian traffic is common. Finally, due to the way light falls on the Observatory grounds and the surrounding landscape, commonly desired background landmarks like the city skyline and the Hollywood sign are not always ideally situated.
The address is 2800 E Observatory Ave, Los Angeles, CA 90027. We'll meet at the base of the Astronomers Monument located in front of the Observatory's north doors. I recommend an 8:00 a.m. start time for engagement sessions at the Griffith Observatory.
LACMA - City Lights - DTLA
The lights at LACMA are easily recognized as one of the top photo destinations in LA. This permanent art installation outside of the Los Angeles County Museum of Art is made up of towering street lamps and is completely lit up at night.
During the day, this maze of lights creates a beautiful modern backdrop that’s super instagramable.
This location has a lot of street parking. It’s advisable that couples that want this location book a second location as well. While LACMA is beautiful for the street lamps, it’s kind of a one-trick-pony, and we prefer to have some other locations that can give you more variety.
Pasadena City Hall
There are few locations in Southern California more classically beautiful than Pasadena City Hall. With its majestic dome, arched colonnades, and European-style courtyards, this location feels like stepping into an old-world European plaza — no passport required. It’s one of our all-time favorite places to photograph.
From the grand staircase to the column-lined corridors bathed in natural light, Pasadena City Hall offers a perfect blend of structure and softness. The light-toned stone architecture reflects beautifully at golden hour, creating soft, glowing skin tones and timeless images that never feel trendy — only iconic.
This spot is ideal for:
Engagement sessions with a romantic, upscale vibe
Bridal portraits that deserve an editorial backdrop
Maternity sessions with elegant gowns and graceful posing
High school seniors and headshots with classic sophistication
Pro Tip: Early morning and weekdays are best to avoid crowds. Flowing gowns, heels, and elevated wardrobe choices complement the architecture beautifully — think black tie without the ballroom.
📍 Location: 100 N Garfield Ave, Pasadena, CA
🅿️ Parking: Paid public lots and metered street parking nearby
🚻 Facilities: Restrooms available in the courtyard
💡 Permits: No permit typically needed for low-impact sessions, but professional equipment and large groups may require advance notice to city staff
Pasadena Princess
Pasadena Princess is an iconic mansion located in the foothills of Pasadena's mansion row. This stunning property features beautiful grounds and allows couples to photograph for a span of three hours.
This property is privately owned, but is rented by The Wedding Estates company, which manages multiple beautiful properties. The location is opulent with baroque sculptures throughout it's labyrinth gardens.
Rental fees here start at $2700 for three hours at the time of this writing, so it is a significant investment that may be better suited for wedding photos than engagement photos. Despite that fact, this location stays booked year round so we will likely need to book it well in advance for any shooting.
Pasadena Princess does not share it's address publicly, however we will handle the booking and coordination for you of this beautiful Pasadena wedding photography location.
The Queen Mary
This famous landmark can serve as a good to great location for portraits. The permit fee for photography is $340 for up to 2 hours. Availability is typically limited to weekdays except when special accommodations can be arranged through the Queen Mary's Special Events Manager, Eleni Manukailea. She can be reached at (562) 499-1659 or eleni.manukailea@queenmary.com. The address for this venue is 1126 Queens Hwy, Long Beach, CA 90802.
SAN GABRIEL MISSION (PERMIT & TRAVEL FEE REQUIRED)
The Mission San Gabriel Arcángel is an important Los Angeles landmark that can serve as a great backdrop for your portrait photography. Although photography around the outside of the mission doesn't require a permit, we'll need a permit access to the interior gardens.
To take full advantage of this location, a permit is recommended. Permits are $100 for "one hour or less" although time spent in the gardens is typically not closely monitored. The San Gabriel Mission is located at 428 S Mission Dr, San Gabriel, CA 91776. Before we get started, we'll meet on the sidewalk in front of the gift shop.
Travel Town MuseuM
Located near the Los Angeles Zoo, Travel Town is excellent if you'd like a vintage train setting. Travel Town is open from 10:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m. on Saturday and Sunday. I'd recommend a start time of 10:00 a.m. to avoid crowds.
There are no fees for photography at this location but since we'll be doing "formalized posing" you must call the Travel Town Museum Foundation at (323) 668-0104 at least 14 days prior to your scheduled engagement session and ask to be placed on their list for approved photography. Persistence is often important in order to receive this permission. Props, costumes, and wardrobe changes are not permitted at this location. Parking is free. Travel Town is located at 5200 Zoo Dr, Los Angeles, CA 90027. For this location, we'll meet on the sidewalk just outside the main entrance.
UNIVERSITY OF CALIFORNIA, LOS ANGELES - UCLA (TRAVEL FEE REQUIRED)
If you'd like to have your photographs taken on the UCLA campus, the Film Locations Management Office doesn't require that you to obtain permits. However, they do ask that any photographs be restricted to personal use only. We will meet in Wilson Plaza at the base of the Janss Steps. The closest parking to that location is Parking Structure 4 at 221 Westwood Plaza Los Angeles, CA 90095. The parking fee for 2+ hours is $12.
UNIVERSITY OF SOUTHERN CALIFORNIA - USC (TRAVEL FEE REQUIRED)
If you'd like to have your photographs taken on the UCLA campus, the Film Locations Management Office doesn't require that you to obtain permits. However, they do ask that any photographs be restricted to personal use only. We will meet in Wilson Plaza at the base of the Janss Steps. The closest parking to that location is Parking Structure 4 at 221 Westwood Plaza Los Angeles, CA 90095. The parking fee for 2+ hours is $12.
UNION STATION (PERMIT REQUIRED)
The historic Los Angeles Union Station is an often-used location for photographers. However, on July 17, 2014, I was photographing an engagement session at this location and we were asked to leave by security guards. Until I am able to obtain further information Jeff Cooper at Hollywood Locations, this site is off-limits since the last time I inquired about a paid permit the fee was $5000 per day. In past years no permit was required but the old ticket counter area was typically off limits for photography. However, the main concourse and outside courtyards offer several nice photographic opportunities. And, if you purchase fares, photography on the station platforms was also permissible although photography inside a train is wholly restricted. I've tried several times to gain further information from Jeff Cooper at Hollywood Locations but he has not replied to numerous requests for information. As such, this site is off-limits until further notice. Parking in Lot B is $14. Los Angeles Union Station is located at 800 N Alameda St Los Angeles, CA 90012. We'll meet at the front of the building near the Information booth located immediately inside the main concourse.
THE VICEROY HOTEL (PERMIT & TRAVEL FEE REQUIRED)
This Santa Monica landmark boasts a British-Regency style lobby designed by Kelly Wearstler that offers excellent photographic opportunities when I'm able to use the right kind of lighting. This location is typically available Tuesday through Thursday only with a location permit of $650. Due to the low light levels in the lobby areas, a lighting assistant is required for the Viceroy. . Please remember that photography at this hotel can be greatly limited by hotel patrons; I'm unable to direct guests in the lobby. Valet parking is available for $16.. The Viceroy Hotel is located at 1819 Ocean Ave, Santa Monica, CA 90401.
BEACH LOCATIONS
EL MATADOR BEACH (TRAVEL FEE REQUIRED)
El Matador Beach in Malibu is our top pick for amazing beach photos. This beach is located at the bottom of a steep set of rocks, and the view from the top can’t be beaten. As we venture down to the sand, the exposed sea walls create a unique and incredible natural architecture for photos. This location looks best at sunset when the tide is low, so we can traverse the beach and make use of the natural rock formations that would typically be covered by waves. Parking is under $10 at the time that this article was written so it can easily be accessed. The address is 32350 Pacific Coast Hwy, Malibu, CA 90265
LEO CARRILLO BEACH (TRAVEL FEE REQUIRED)
Leo Carrillo is a new addition to our list and possibly our favorite beach to shoot at in Los Angeles County. The beach is stunning, expansive, and in recent years, less crowded than El Matador Beach. The rocky formations like the one pictured above make for a stunning background in your photos.
Like most beach locations, we have to avoid shooting at this one on the weekends, as well as Friday. Sunset is the preferred time to shoot and we must shoot at low tide. Street parking is available usually with a very short walk. We can get a variety of great photos at this location. The address is 35000 Pacific Coast Hwy, Malibu, CA 90265
SANTA MONICA BEACH & PIER (TRAVEL FEE REQUIRED)
The Santa Monica pier, the beach, the surf, and the strand (aka Ocean Front Walk) offer some fabulous and highly varied backgrounds for an engagement session or portrait session.
To avoid large crowds and for the best light, it's ideal to start the session no later than 8:00 a.m. There are several parking options nearby but I prefer parking on the pier ($4 per hour; $12 maximum). We'll meet in the parking lot on the pier. The address is 200 Santa Monica Pier, Santa Monica, CA 90401.
VENICE BEACH & BOARDWALK (TRAVEL FEE REQUIRED)
If you prefer an urban flair to your beach session, the Venice Beach boardwalk has lots to offer. The murals on the buildings between the alleys offer up an amazing number of cool and colorful photographic opportunities. For this area of Venice, there is very sparse non-metered street parking and one-hour metered parking. I, therefore, recommend the public lot at N Venice Blvd & Ocean Front Walk, Los Angeles, CA 90291. We'll meet at the northeast corner of the lot near the fenced paddle tennis courts. To avoid large crowds, it's best to begin the portrait session or engagement session no later than 8:00 a.m.
OFF-LIMITS
Unless you have a connection with facilities management or several thousand dollars in your permit budget, the following locations are regrettably off-limits for engagement sessions.
Banks
Dangerous Urban Areas
Getty Museum
Getty Villa
Grocery Stores
The Grove
Private Gyms
Hollywood & Highland
Hollywood Sign
The Langham, Pasadena
Little Corona Beach
Federal Buildings
Library Interiors
Los Angeles Zoo
Malls and Retail Centers
Museum Interiors
Pacific Design Center
Police Stations
Private Beaches (Malibu)
Rail Yards
Restaurants
Retail Stores
Rodeo Drive
Crypto.com Arena or LA Live