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Writer's pictureKayla

Picture-Perfect San Diego: Top 5 Places for Engagement Photos

As a wedding photographer, there's nothing quite as exciting as capturing the love and joy of a couple during their engagement. San Diego, with its stunning landscapes and picturesque coastal charm, offers a plethora of breathtaking locations for engagement photo shoots. From dramatic cliffs to sandy beaches, this city provides an array of backdrops that will make any engagement session unforgettable. Of all the places I have shot at, here are my personal favorites in San Diego.

Couple on cliff with wave below them at Sunset Cliffs in San Diego

1. Sunset Cliffs: There's a reason why Sunset Cliffs is a favorite spot among photographers and couples alike. As a sunset lover, this was one of the first places I visited in San Diego, and I have returned several times since, for both personal pleasure and photo shoots. The sunsets are obviously gorgeous, but I recommend it for morning shoots often so we can beat the crowds of tourists and locals who (understandably) can't get enough of it. The variety of photos that can be taken here is wide, from photos of you and your partner on a cliff, to up close photos of you two at the beach (I can lead you to the bottom), Sunset Cliffs is great for almost any couple. As the name suggests, this coastal gem provides breathtaking panoramic views of the Pacific Ocean, dramatic cliffs, and golden sunsets. The rugged beauty of the orange cliffs combined with the crashing waves below creates a magical atmosphere, making it an ideal setting for capturing intimate and romantic moments between couples.


Engagement photo at Torrey Pines State Beach

2. Torrey Pines State Beach: For nature-lovers (like me), Torrey Pines State Beach is an underrated gem in San Diego. Located just north of La Jolla, this beach boasts rugged cliffs, unique rock formations, and beautiful stretches of sand. The iconic Torrey Pines trees and the breathtaking views of the Pacific Ocean create a picturesque backdrop for engagement photos. The diverse scenery, from golden sand to rocky shores, offers endless possibilities for capturing the couple's love amidst the beauty of nature. My favorite time to shoot here is during sunset. Some photos here have taken my breath away due to the purple and pink sunsets a few of my couples and I have been able to experience. There is also a way to reach a more private part of the beach by taking a hike that overlooks the ocean and beautiful bluffs. PS we can take pictures during the hike too!


Couple holding hands walking towards on the shore with a vibrant sunset I the background at Solana Beach

3. Solana Beach: Nestled between Del Mar and Encinitas, Solana Beach offers a charming coastal escape with its pristine sandy shores and stunning ocean vistas. This beach is long, but I have few spots that I like to take couples to: one that I recommend in the morning when we can have the beach to ourselves and have a gorgeous cliff as a background. The second spot, which I recommend at sunset, requires a stretch of stairs to get to, but it is SO worth it.


Couple embracing each other at Calumet park for their engagement photos.

4. Calumet Park: Situated in the charming coastal town of La Jolla, Calumet Park is a small but enchanting spot with super easy access. Right behind the greenery, you'll have access to a cliff overlooking the Pacific Ocean, providing an intimate and serene setting for engagement sessions. For bonus pictures, there is a way to get down to the beach (which is rocky so be sure to wear shoes) for more photos with little to no people nearby.


Couple sitting on the beach with the Oceanside Pier in the background

5. Oceanside Pier: Last but certainly not least, Oceanside Pier offers a classic and timeless setting for engagement photos. The combination of the pier's nostalgic charm, crashing waves, and vibrant sunsets creates an enchanting atmosphere. Couples can be photographed on the pier, under the pier, or on the beach with the pier in the background, capturing moments of joy and romance against the stunning ocean backdrop. The pier's vibrant energy, coupled with the beauty of the surrounding beach, offers a unique and lively setting for engagement photos that are sure to stand out.


I have plenty of more places to recommend, but I wanted to put a spotlight on these 5 places in San Diego for engagement photos. If you're looking for more places for engagement photo shoot locations, be sure to visit my Instagram for more ideas: https://www.instagram.com/kaylunapix/?hl=en


Thank you for taking a few minutes out of your day to read this.


With love,


Kayla the owner of Kay Luna Pix


Photographer holding her camera up to take a picture


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