Best Engagement Photo Locations Los Angeles

Los Angeles is a haven for lovebirds seeking an enchanting backdrop for their engagement photos. With its stunning coastline, picturesque gardens, and iconic landmarks, the city offers an array of romantic settings. In this blog post, we'll explore the most captivating and romantic places to get your engagement photos taken in Los Angeles, ensuring you will have stunning photos you'll cherish for years and years.

1. Griffith Observatory

Perched atop the hills of Griffith Park, the Griffith Observatory provides breathtaking views of the cityscape and the infamous Hollywood sign. Plan to be there during sunset and let the panoramic vista create a magical backdrop for your photos. But make sure to get there plenty early to find parking as it can get packed during golden hour.

Vibe: Architecture, City Views

Best Shoot Time: Before sunset

Permit: No permit required

Parking: Pay machine, $20/hour

Pros:

Plenty of photo op spots both at the Observatory

and nearby.

2. El Matador State Beach

Nestled along the rugged Malibu coastline, El Matador Beach is a hidden gem that offers dramatic sea caves, towering cliffs, and intimate coves. The natural beauty of this beach makes it a dreamy location for engagement photos, especially during golden hour when the sun casts a warm glow over the landscape.

Vibe: Beach, Rock Formations, Cliffs

Best Shoot Time: Before sunset, after sunrise

Permit: No permit required

Parking: Pay machine, pay hourly or daily

Pros:

Creates a stunning backdrop at all times of

the day, not too crowded.

Cons:

Small paid parking lot. Short hike down,

not recommended for anyone who has

difficulties climbing stairs

3. The Venice Canals

Recreating the charm of Italy, the Venice Canals exude a romantic ambiance. Take a leisurely walk along the picturesque canals, adorned with charming bridges and colorful houses. There are many nooks away from people to take some captivating photos.

Vibe: Cutesy, Playful, Colorful

Best Shoot Time: Early Morning

Permit: No permit required

Parking: Free in neighborhood

Pros:

Quiet and not crowded. Beautiful bridges and

very colorful backdrops.

4. Vasquez Rocks

Vasquez Rocks stands as a dramatic and unique location for capturing engagement photos, offering couples a backdrop that is both rugged and stunningly beautiful. These iconic rock formations, with their towering spires and sweeping vistas, provide a striking contrast to the tender intimacy of an engagement shoot. Every frame captured at Vasquez Rocks becomes a testament to the adventurous spirit and unwavering commitment shared between two souls embarking on a journey together.

Vibe: Rock Formations, Adventure, Nature

Best Shoot Time: Before sunset, early morning

Permit: No permit required

Parking: Free parking lot

Pros:

Beautiful natural landscape, plenty of spots to

explore

Cons:

No tripods or drones allowed.

5. Santa Monica Pier

Embrace the nostalgia and vibrancy of the Santa Monica Pier. Enjoy the lively atmosphere, charming Ferris wheel, and the thrill of the moment and bring some fun and life into your photos!

Vibe: Playful, Energetic, Beach, Carnival

Best Shoot Time: Before sunset

Permit: No permit required

Parking: Metered street parking or various paid lots

Pros:

Plenty to do here: Ferris wheel, merry go round,

boardwalk, beach, cotton candy, the list goes on.

6. Pasadena City Hall

Pasadena City Hall is a masterpiece of Mediterranean Revival architecture and a popular spot for engagement photos. Its stunning facade, grand staircase, and well-maintained gardens create an elegant and timeless atmosphere. You'll feel like you've stepped into a classic Hollywood movie as you pose against the backdrop of this historic building.

Vibe: Architecture, Classic, Regal

Best Shoot Time: Weekday evenings

Permit: No permit required

Parking: Parking lot with pay machine

Pros:

Stunning architecture, variety of photo options,

easy parking

Cons:

Water fountain turns off on weekends and can

get crowded with other photo shoots

7. Bridgeport Lake

Bridgeport Lake in Valencia offers a delightful blend of West Coast beauty with the quaint charm reminiscent of an East Coast neighborhood, making it an ideal spot for capturing engagement photos. This quiet neighborhood hosts a serene lake, picturesque wooden bridges, charming houses, and a lighthouse, making it a truly cozy and romantic setting for engagement photos.

Vibe: Lake, Serene, Charming

Best Shoot Time: Before sunset, early morning

Permit: No permit required

Parking: Free parking lot

Pros:

Quiet, never crowded. Doesn't look like LA.

8. Walt Disney Concert Hall

The Walt Disney Concert Hall stands as an architectural masterpiece and a symbol of creativity and romance in the heart of Los Angeles. Its gleaming metallic curves and captivating design provide an unparalleled backdrop for engagement photos that exude sophistication and elegance. Couples can embrace amidst the sleek lines and reflective surfaces, with the iconic hall's striking facade adding a touch of grandeur to their love story.

Vibe: Artsy, Glamour, Architecture, Urban

Best Shoot Time: Morning or evening

Permit: No permit required

Parking: Metered street parking or various pay lots

Pros:

Incredible architecture and nearby many other

great photo spots such as Grand Park, Water

and Power Department, and the Broad Museum

Cons:

No tripods, drones, lighting equipment.

Can be closed certain days/times for events.

9. The Huntington Library, Art Collections, and Botanical Gardens

Immerse yourselves in the beauty of The Huntington's vast gardens, featuring breathtaking landscapes and botanical wonders. From the tranquil beauty of the Japanese Garden to the classic charm of the Rose Garden, each corner of the Huntington exudes romance and sophistication. Find secluded spots within the gardens, surrounded by fragrant blooms as a backdrop to your love.

Vibe: Garden, Cultural, Diverse

Best Shoot TIme: Mornings

Permit: Required

Parking: Paid parking lot

Pros:

Well taken care of gardens, many unique

backdrops

Malibu Creek State Park: Escape the city's hustle and bustle and venture into the serene beauty of Malibu Creek State Park. This natural oasis offers a variety of breathtaking settings, from lush green meadows to rugged canyons and the picturesque Century Lake. The park's rustic charm and natural beauty provide the perfect backdrop for a romantic, nature-inspired engagement shoot.

Vibe: Nature, Park, Mountains

Best Shoot Time: Before sunset

Permit: Required

Parking: Paid parking lot

Pros:

Lots to explore, from creeks to forests to hilltops.

Cons:

Requires a bit of hiking to get to some spots.

Permits only allowed on weekdays.

If you can't decide where the perfect spot for your engagement photos is, ask your Los Angeles wedding videographers or photographers for help choosing a location! Los Angeles is a city brimming with romance, offering a myriad of breathtaking locations for a truly unforgettable engagement. Whether you choose the sweeping views of Griffith Observatory, the tranquil beauty of The Huntington Garden, or the seaside charm of El Matador Beach, the most important element is that you showcase your authentic love.

Another great option for your engagement photos is to choose a location that's meaningful to you and your relationship, such as your favorite coffee shop or brewery, the place you both met, or the park you walk your dogs. Select a spot that resonates with your relationship, add your personal touches, and let the enchantment of Los Angeles set the stage for a beautiful beginning to your lifelong journey together.