Choosing the perfect location for your engagement session can be daunting, so I always recommend my couples look back at their relationship and think about things they love doing together or sentimental locations. As much as you’ll use your engagement photos for your wedding website, save the date, to brag on Instagram or to hang around the house; they’re really a snapshot of this moment in your lives together so mark that occasion with meaningful locations or activities.
A great photographer can take a beautiful photo of y’all at a field or beach, but why are you there? Have you been there together before? Does it mean something?
With that being said, below are a few favorite places I’ve photographed my couples at and the reason why they chose such special locations. I always love brainstorming new ideas and unique spots to photograph. I have a full wishlist of ideas and locations for future couples that need inspiration, just ask! Need more tips to prepare for your session? Check out my engagement style guide.
1. Venice Skate Park
This couple is one adventurous duo who loves skateboarding around together so embracing their playful nature and the iconic skate park was a no brainer.
2. Santa Monica Pier
This couple loves going to theme parks together and lived in Santa Monica at the time, so heading to the Santa Monica Pier and riding the rollercoaster made so much sense!
3. Sailing
This couple owns a sailboat. His family has a long legacy of sailing! His sister actually came to captain the boat as we took fun photos. It’s an activity they love together and a great way to show off SoCal beauty.
4. Surfing
Surfing, the official sport of California and an activity that so many of my couples love doing together! Getting in the water with them is one of my favorite things to do as they show off their skills.
5. LACMA
For the couple that loves art, there are so many gorgeous spots to shoot at around this location beyond the iconic lamp posts!
6. Santa Monica Airport
While not completely allowed 😉 this location is great for a couple that loves to travel. I always love pushing the boundaries with my photos and locations and this day it really worked out for us!
7. El Matador Beach
There’s a reason this beach is one of the most photographed, it’s beautiful! There are so many gorgeous parts of it including the key hole rock and even the view from the top! Definitely go on a weekday because it’s constantly swarming with people. My couple used to rent a vacation house here every year and has so many memories from their first few years dating on those trips.
8. Venice Canals
An iconic yet hidden gem of LA. One of my couples loves walking their dog around this area, so taking photos there was so much fun with them and their pup!
9. Santa Monica Beach
Lifeguard towers, the ocean, summer concert music series. This location is a special place for many people and so fun to photograph!
10. Arts District
Super urban, lots of breweries, this spot is great for a couple that loves exploring LA, trying new spots and of course tasting beer!
“Best Engagement Photo Locations in Los Angeles” was written by Jodee Debes Photography and originally published on her blog. To see more of Jodee’s work, visit https://jodeedebes.com/.
To find out more about film shoots on the Santa Monica Pier, read our guide to filming at the Santa Monica Pier.