Now, I’m not going to go ahead and declare the west coast is the best coast, but I will say that California has a million different options for elopement destinations, engagement photos, and couples sessions. If you’re looking for a city to capture your love story in, San Diego has so many different locales that fit every type of love story. Here are just a few favorites!
Sunset Cliffs Natural Park
With 68 acres to explore, you know there are some amazing views here, and I can help you find the most epic backdrops for your San Diego engagement photos! You’ll find intricately carved coastal bluffs, arches, and sea caves as well as the most stunning panoramic ocean views. During the right time of year, if you’re lucky, you can see California gray whales.
Scripps Beach
The long and photogenic Scripps Pier is not open to the public, unfortunately, but the beach on both sides of it is, and the pier makes a great background to your engagement photos in San Diego. Scripps Beach is much quieter than La Jolla Shores just to the south, which gives you nice, intimate photos.
Torrey Pines State Natural Reserve
According to SanDiego.org, “Torrey Pines State Natural Reserve, located on the cliffs above Torrey Pines State Beach, is a 1,750 acre reserve dedicated to preserving its namesake, the Torrey Pine tree and other indigenous wildlife in its native environment.” The park offers hiking trails of varying levels, sandstone canyons, and cliffside views of the Pacific Ocean.
Balboa Park
If you’re looking for something a little more urban, Balboa Park has a little bit of everything: more than 16 museums, multiple performing arts venues, lovely gardens, trails, and sweeping architecture from Spanish Colonial Revival to mid-century Modern. Depending on what kind of backdrop you’re looking for, I can help you find it at Balboa Park.
La Jolla Sea Caves
Want to take your San Diego engagement photos to a spot dating back to the dinosaurs? I mean, how cool is that? The sea caves take a bit of effort to get to, but the history and scenery are so cool! There are seven, but only one is really reachable by foot, Sunny Jim Cave.
Bernardo Winery
For a different kind of San Diego engagement photo session, Bernardo Winery has been serving the region since 1889. The winery is open Wednesday through Saturday 11-8 and Sunday 11-6. What’s more Californian than a winery?!
Want a San Diego adventure with me? Click here to plan it together!
With love,
Lauren
Every couple dreams of a wedding day that feels effortless, joyful, and filled with beauty at every turn. Behind the scenes, achieving that seamless, serene experience is the result of intentional collaboration between your wedding planner and photographer. As a luxury wedding photographer in North Carolina and beyond, I’ve witnessed firsthand how thoughtful partnerships between vendors—especially planners and photographers—can transform a wedding day into a truly calm and elevated celebration. In this post, we’ll explore the art of wedding planner and photographer collaboration, why it matters, and how it leads to a refined, editorial wedding photography experience that lets couples truly soak in every moment.
The magic of a North Carolina wedding lies in its ability to weave together generations of tradition with the ever-evolving spirit of modern love stories. As we look ahead to 2026, couples are dreaming up celebrations that honor the region’s rich heritage while embracing fresh, fashion-forward trends. Whether you’re drawn to the grandeur of Pinehurst’s historic venues or the artistic energy of Asheville, blending contemporary flair with classic Southern elegance can create a wedding that feels personal, stylish, and unforgettable. Let’s explore how to infuse the latest North Carolina wedding trends for 2026 with the enduring romance of the South, ensuring your day is both on-trend and timeless.
When couples dream of their wedding day, they often focus on the dress, the venue, and the magic of saying “I do.” But behind every seamless celebration, there’s a team of professionals working in harmony—none more crucial than the partnership between your wedding planner and photographer. As a luxury wedding photographer in North Carolina and beyond, I’ve had the privilege of collaborating with some of the industry’s most discerning planners. Over the years, I’ve learned that what high-end planners seek in a photographer goes far beyond a beautiful portfolio. From communication skills to an eye for editorial wedding imagery, here’s what truly builds planner trust—and why it matters for your wedding day story.
Choosing your wedding colors is one of the most exciting parts of planning your big day. In North Carolina—where rolling mountains, lush gardens, and charming Southern venues set the stage—your color palette does more than decorate your space. It creates a visual story that comes to life in your photographs. As a wedding photographer who has captures celebrations from Pinehurst to Asheville, I’ve seen firsthand how the right hues can elevate your photos and set the tone for an unforgettable event. Let’s dive into the top 2026 wedding color palettes that not only reflect the latest North Carolina wedding trends, but also photograph beautifully for timeless, heirloom images.
Imagine saying “I do” surrounded by sunrise hues, lush gardens, and the tranquil sound of a cascading waterfall. At Sandy River Gardens in Troutdale, Oregon, this dream can become your reality. As a fine-art wedding photographer, I designed and captured this editorial to showcase the romance, elegance, and endless possibilities this venue offers for couples seeking an unforgettable celebration.
Planning a wedding in Pinehurst, North Carolina is like stepping into a romantic Southern fairy tale—majestic pines, sweeping golf courses, and historic venues set the stage for an unforgettable celebration. As a Pinehurst North Carolina wedding photographer, I’ve had the joy of capturing countless love stories in this enchanting locale. Over the years, I’ve learned a few secrets that can make your wedding day even more magical. Whether you’re exchanging vows at The Carolina Hotel or twirling through the gardens at The Weymouth Center, these are the five things I wish every Pinehurst bride knew before the big day.
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