Best Orange County Engagement Locations for Photos 2025
Orange County Engagement Photos
You just got engaged! There are so many moving parts to planning a wedding. Planning and preparing for your engagement session is just a small piece of the wedding planning process. I know that can feel overwhelming as well. From deciding what to wear, how to time things, and choosing a location, there is a lot to consider. This can be overwhelming considering the sheer number of amazing Orange County engagement photo locations to shoot at. But where is the best place to take engagement photos in Orange County? As a SoCal wedding photographer, I created this list that includes some of my favorite Orange County locations. Additionally, I threw in some places that are lesser known for variety.
For our engagement session, we may even be able to visit multiple locations on this list, depending on their proximity to each other and the length of your session. Many of these locations are not only great places to have engagement photos, but wedding photos as well, especially if they are close to your wedding venue in Orange County. These locations could also be great options for a scenic or beach proposal in Orange County, a couples photoshoot, or wedding portraits following an Orange County Courthouse wedding.
As an Orange County wedding photographer who takes many couples’ engagement photos in Southern California, I’ve curated this list of the best locations for engagement photos in Orange County to help you narrow it down. Hopefully this will give you some ideas. If you’d like to talk more about having me take your Orange County engagement photos, please get in touch!
BEST LOCATIONS TO TAKE ENGAGEMENT PHOTOS IN ORANGE COUNTY:
1. LAGUNA BEACH, ORANGE COUNTY
Laguna Beach is one of the most popular engagement photo locations in Orange County, and for good reason. With its dramatic cliffs, sandy coves, tide pools, and the famous Pirate Tower at Victoria Beach, Laguna Beach engagement photos offer couples a mix of coastal charm and iconic backdrops. Whether you’re drawn to golden sunsets over the ocean or the unique rock formations that line the shore, Laguna Beach provides endless options for romantic engagement photography.
Laguna Beach engagement sessions are best scheduled during golden hour when the light is soft and dreamy. Parking can be tricky at some beaches, so plan to arrive early and allow extra time to find a spot.
Tip: Some beaches allow dogs, so bring your favorite furry friend. Also, high tide can limit access to certain areas and create slippery terrain, so check the tide charts in advance.
Photos by Cassy Velazquez Photography
2. CASPERS WILDERNESS PARK
For couples who want a backdrop of rolling hills, oak trees, and wide-open spaces, Caspers Wilderness Park in San Juan Capistrano is one of the most beautiful spots in Orange County. With its golden fields, winding trails, and seasonal wildflowers, Caspers Wilderness Park engagement photos create a natural, rustic, and romantic vibe.
This location is perfect for couples who love the outdoors and want their engagement session in Orange County to feel adventurous and organic. The park offers a variety of scenery, from sweeping meadows to tree-lined paths, that look stunning during golden hour.
Please note an OC park photography permit is often required, and some trails can be uneven, so bring comfortable shoes for walking to each spot.
3. EUCALYPTUS FOREST
Hidden in Lake Forest, the Eucalyptus Forest along Serrano Creek Trail is a dreamy, lesser-known spot for couples who love a romantic, woodsy feel. Towering eucalyptus trees create a natural canopy of light and shade, making it an ideal backdrop for Orange County engagement photos that feel intimate and timeless.
The forest trails are perfect for couples who want a quiet setting away from the crowds of the beach. The soft filtered light through the trees gives Eucalyptus Forest engagement photos a magical, almost storybook quality, perfect for couples who want something unique in their session.
Photos by Cassy Velazquez Photography
4. YORBA LINDA REGIONAL PARK
With its sprawling lakes, tree-lined paths, and open fields, Yorba Linda Regional Park engagement photos give couples a relaxed, natural setting right in the heart of Orange County. It also features a lake for those extra romantic photos.
Photos by Cassy Velazquez Photography
5. NOGUCHI GARDEN
Known as the “California Scenario,” Noguchi Garden in Costa Mesa offers a modern, architectural backdrop that’s perfect for chic and artistic engagement photos in Orange County.
Photos by Cassy Velazquez Photography
6. NEWPORT BACKBAY
Newport Back Bay is a serene escape with scenic wetlands, trails, and water views. Engagement sessions in Newport Beach here feel romantic and timeless.
7. OLD TOWNE ORANGE HISTORIC DISTRICTS
With vintage storefronts, charming brick walls, and tree-lined streets, Old Towne Orange engagement photos combine history and nostalgia for a unique OC vibe.
8. ANGEL STADIUM
Sports lovers can capture playful, memorable Angel Stadium engagement photos in Anaheim. The stadium’s architecture and bold backdrops make it fun and personal.
Photos by Cassy Velazquez Photography
9. OAK CANYON NATURE CENTER
Nestled in Anaheim Hills, Oak Canyon Nature Center is a woodsy paradise with streams and trails, ideal for rustic Orange County engagement photography.
10. DISNEYLAND
For couples who want their engagement session to feel playful, magical, and full of nostalgia, Disneyland in Anaheim is one of the most unique engagement photo locations in Orange County. With its iconic castle, vibrant parades, and whimsical details around every corner, Disneyland engagement photos capture the fun-loving side of your relationship while celebrating the “happiest place on earth.”
From dreamy shots in front of Sleeping Beauty Castle to candid laughter on Main Street or cozy moments on the rides, this location offers endless opportunities for creative photography. It’s also perfect for Disney fans who want their engagement story to reflect a shared passion.
Photos by Cassy Velazquez Photography
11. PACIFIC CITY IN HUNTINGTON BEACH
For a coastal, trendy vibe, Pacific City in Huntington Beach combines oceanfront views with modern design, perfect for stylish engagement photos in OC.
12. THOMAS RILEY WILDERNESS PARK
With golden hills, oak trees, and wide-open fields, Thomas Riley Wilderness Park engagement photos capture the beauty of Orange County’s natural landscape.
Photos by Cassy Velazquez Photography
13. BALBOA ISLAND
Charming streets, harbor views, and the ferry make Balboa Island engagement photos a perfect mix of seaside romance and classic Newport Beach style.
Photos by Cassy Velazquez Photography
14. BLOOMING FLOWER FIELDS
When in season, Orange County flower field engagement photos offer dreamy, colorful backdrops filled with wildflowers or ranunculus for bright, romantic portraits.
Photos by Cassy Velazquez Photography
15. CARBON CANYON
Home to OC’s hidden redwood grove, Carbon Canyon engagement photos feel like a woodland escape while still being right in Brea.
Photos by Cassy Velazquez Photography
16. GREAT PARK
With its iconic orange balloon and wide green spaces, Great Park in Irvine is a playful, modern spot for OC engagement photos.
17. AT YOUR FAVORITE COFFEE SHOP
Intimate and cozy, engagement photos at your favorite Orange County coffee shop capture your love story in a personal, authentic way.
18. IN HOME SESSION
For couples who want something cozy and real, an in-home engagement session in Orange County highlights your everyday love and natural connection.
19. MISSION SAN JUAN CAPISTRANO
Mission San Juan Capistrano is one of the most iconic engagement photo locations in Orange County, with Spanish architecture and blooming gardens.
Photos by Cassy Velazquez Photography
20. FULLERTON ARBORETUM
With lush gardens, winding trails, and over 4,000 plant species, the Fullerton Arboretum is one of the most romantic engagement photo locations in Orange County. From serene ponds and bamboo groves to colorful flowers in bloom, Fullerton Arboretum engagement photos offer endless variety for couples who want natural beauty and vibrant backdrops in one place.
Tip: A photography permit is required, and weekends can be busy. Plan your session during golden hour on a weekday for the best light and fewer crowds.
Photos by Cassy Velazquez Photography
21. JEFFREY OPEN SPACE TRAIL
The Jeffrey Open Space Trail in Irvine is a hidden gem for couples who love wide green fields, tree-lined paths, and peaceful scenery. With charming wooden bridges, winding trails, and natural light filtering through the trees, Jeffrey Trail engagement photos capture a mix of rustic charm and modern suburban beauty.
Tip: Weekdays are best since weekends can bring joggers and cyclists. Golden hour gives this trail a warm, romantic glow, perfect for timeless Orange County engagement photos.
Photos by Cassy Velazquez Photography
Orange County Engagement Photography FAQs
What should we wear for our engagement session?
I’ve created a full guide to help couples prepare outfits for their Orange County engagement session, but here are a few quick tips. Comfort is key, especially if we’re walking between multiple locations, like Laguna Beach tidepools or the trails at Carbon Canyon. Bring your heels for the photos, but have a pair of comfortable shoes on hand for in between. Always let the location guide your outfit: flowing dresses look amazing at Newport Beach, while something more polished might fit the Mission San Juan Capistrano.
How do we pick a location for engagement photos?
One of the best things about being an Orange County engagement photographer is the variety of locations. From the ocean views of Crystal Cove to the rustic beauty of Thomas Riley Wilderness Park, there’s something for every couple. When you’re choosing, think about what feels personal: a favorite date spot in Old Towne Orange, the place you got engaged, or a beach you love to visit together. The best location is always one that reflects your relationship.
What should we bring to our engagement photo session?
If you’re planning on two looks, bring a change of clothes along with small touch-up items like a hairbrush, powder, or lipstick. Try to keep things light. Many Orange County engagement photo locations involve walking (think Balboa Island or Jeffrey Open Space Trail), so carrying as little as possible makes the session easier. I’ll happily hold small items while I shoot, but it’s best to bring only the essentials.
What time of year Is Best for Engagement Photos in Orange County?
The beauty of engagement photos in Orange County is that every season offers something unique:
- Summer sessions: warm evenings, glowing sunsets at Laguna Beach, lots of greenery.
- Fall sessions: the most popular season, golden light and gorgeous tones at Caspers Wilderness Park.
- Winter sessions: cooler weather, fewer crowds at busy spots like Victoria Beach or Dana Point Beach.
- Spring sessions: blooming flowers at Shady Canyon Trail or wildflowers across the hills.
Personally, I love fall golden hours, but there’s truly no bad season here.
How much do engagement photos cost in Orange County?
Pricing for Orange County engagement photography typically ranges between $600–$1,500 depending on the photographer’s experience, location choices, and what’s included in the session. Rates are often higher at premium locations like Laguna Beach or Newport Back Bay if permits are required.
How long do engagement photo sessions last?
Most Orange County engagement sessions last between 1–2 hours. This depends on how many locations you’d like to include (for example, starting in Old Towne Orange and finishing at Newport Beach) and whether you’d like an outfit change. Busier areas may take longer, while intimate spots like O’Neill Regional Park are quicker to navigate.
Are you looking for a photographer to take your engagement photos? Get in touch and let’s talk about how to make your Orange County engagement photo session happen!
Engagement Photography in Orange County
Photos by Cassy Velazquez Photography
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