The Best Locations for Engagement Photos in Orange County
Congrats on your engagement! Seriously, this is such an exciting time, and one of the best ways to celebrate is with an engagement photo session. Lucky for you, Orange County has some of the most gorgeous spots to make your photos unforgettable. Whether you’re all about beach vibes, nature feels, or something super unique, I’ve got you covered. Let’s dive into my favorite spots for engagement photos in OC!
1. Quail Hill - perfect for a field photoshoot
This is one of my absolute favorite spots to shoot! Quail Hill in Irvine has these beautiful open fields and scenic trails that scream effortless romance. Technically, we’re only supposed to shoot on the trail, but if we get lucky, we might get to frolic in the fields a little bit! It’s gorgeous all year round. In spring, after some rain, it’s so lush and green, while other times of the year, the brown tones give it a dreamy, earthy vibe.
Quail Hill is perfect if you’re going for a carefree, fun vibe, and it’s also great if you want to bring your furry friends along. Fun fact: Eddie and I had our own couple’s photos done here, and we had such a blast. I’ve done a few sessions here myself, and it’s always such a fun and relaxed spot for photos.
Pro Tip: Go right before to get a soft glowy effect. Nature deserves her moment, too!
2. The Flower Field in San Juan Capistrano - sooo dreamy!
This is definitely a hot spot in springtime since the flowers are only there for a short period! It’s another one of my favorite spots to shoot, but specifically during the spring season, of course. What’s cool about this place is that there are orange trees around the area, and the train passes by, so you can even get some fun shots with the Metrolink in the background.
One of my all-time favorite shoots here was a picnic-themed engagement session—it was so, so cute! This location is perfect for playful, candid photos, especially if you’re into dancing around in the field and having fun. It’s also a great spot to bring props like a picnic basket or a bouquet to add a little extra something to your shots. Honestly, this spot even works beautifully for maternity sessions because of its dreamy vibes!
Pro Tip: Check bloom schedules ahead of time so you catch the flowers at their peak. Oh, and wear colors that complement the flowers to really make your photos pop!
3. Disneyland: The Happiest Place on Earth
I’ve shot at Disneyland a few times, and every session is so different but always so fun! Obviously, there are SO many amazing photo spots at Disneyland and California Adventure. Some of my personal favorites include Toon Town, Cars Land, and, of course, the iconic shot in front of Sleeping Beauty’s Castle.
The props here are endless—you can throw on bride and groom Mickey and Minnie ears, grab some churros and walk around eating them, or even hop on a ride like Dumbo or the teacups for some cute candids. It’s the perfect spot if you’re a Disney lover or just want a session that feels like a fun, playful date day.
Fun fact: Eddie and I are huge Disneyland fans and have season passes! You’ll find us there almost every month, usually trying all the new foods and enjoying the magic.
Pro Tip: Plan your session during less crowded times (early morning or weekdays work best)
4. Old Town Tustin: Quaint and Full of Character
We’ve done one engagement shoot here (photo & video) , and it was awesome. If you’re into vintage, old-town vibes, this is the spot to be! There’s even a cute coffee shop in Old Town Tustin, so you can grab a cup of coffee and stroll around town like you’re on the cutest date ever. The cobblestone streets and charming buildings make the perfect backdrop for candid shots of you two exploring, walking hand-in-hand, or even dancing in the streets.
To spice up the shoot, I recommend wearing a cool and funky outfit! Just keep the colors neutral so everything flows nicely—maybe think of fun (but matching) patterns for a little extra flair. This location truly gives off cozy and romantic vibes, and it’s such a fun place to let your personalities shine.
Pro Tip: A prop like a coffee cup or a bouquet can make your session feel even more personal and playful.
5. The Beach: Romantic and Timeless
The beach might be a classic choice, but it’s always a hit! My absolute favorite beaches to shoot at in Orange County are in Laguna Beach. Just a heads-up—Laguna Beach requires a permit to shoot, so make sure to grab one in advance to avoid any interruptions from the lifeguards! Trust me, it’s worth it. The sand there is so soft and dreamy, and the gorgeous rock formations make for stunning backdrops.
I also love Crystal Cove because it offers a little bit of everything. You can start your session on the cliffs for lush greenery with ocean views and then head down to the beach for shots in the water. It’s the perfect mix of dramatic and romantic.
Sunset is definitely the best time to shoot at the beach. The golden light adds such a magical vibe to your photos, whether you’re walking barefoot in the sand, splashing in the waves, or cozying up together.
Pro Tip: Plan your session for golden hour—you won’t regret it!
Why Engagement Photos Are a Must
Engagement photos aren’t just cute pics to post on Insta (though, let’s be real, they’re great for that too). They’re a way to celebrate this moment in your life, get comfy in front of the camera, and have a little fun before the wedding stress kicks in. Plus, they’re perfect for save-the-dates, announcements, and just looking back at how freakin’ cute you two are.
Let’s Plan Your Session!
Let’s create something unforgettable together. Whether it’s beach vibes, Disneyland magic, or a dreamy flower field, Our Digital Diaries will bring your vision to life. Email us or submit an inquiry today to get started!
