9 Best Locations for Engagement Photos in Los Angeles

7 November 2024 / Caius Symboll®

Given the diverse landscape of Los Angeles, it can be overwhelming to find the right photography location for an engagement session. Settling on any random spot may not get you photos that authentically reflect your story. As LA-based photographers, we're sharing our curated list of the best locations for engagement photos in Los Angeles.

7 November 2024 / Caius Symboll®

Best Locations for Engagement Photos in Los Angeles

Los Angeles offers an unparalleled variety of engagement photo locations, from iconic landmarks like the Griffith Observatory and Walt Disney Concert Hall to natural wonders such as Marina Del Rey and Vista Hermosa Park. For couples seeking an urban chic and cultural flair, the Los Angeles County Museum of Art and Downtown LA’s cityscape provide striking backdrops.

Whether you’re drawn to the beach, cityscapes, or gardens, LA has a spot that will match your style and help you create unforgettable engagement photos. With these top engagement photo spots in LA, we’ll take photos that will reflect your unique style and the special bond that you share, creating cherished memories for years to come.

Category	Locations	Best For (Theme)	Unique Elements
Iconic landmarks	Griffith Observatory, Walt Disney Concert Hall, Venice Canals, Union Station	Starry nights, classic, whimsical, vintage, travel	DPanoramic city views, geometric architecture, reflections
Scenic beauty	Marina Del Rey, Vista Hermosa Park	Beach, bohemian, picnic	Natural landscapes, waterfront views
Urban chic and culture	Los Angeles County Museum of Art, Grand Central Market, Downtown LA	Arts, foodie, eclectic	Art backdrops, skyscrapers, lively neighborhoods

1. Griffith Observatory

For those who love a mix of urban and natural elements, the Griffith Observatory offers breathtaking views of the city skyline and beyond. The chance to incorporate the night sky makes it a dreamy backdrop for an engagement shoot in SoCal. To capture a magical ambiance, we recommend scheduling a session closer to sunset.

Pros: Iconic LA landmark with recognizable architecture; surrounding park provides natural settings

Cons: Strict rules and permit requirements for professional photography

2. Walt Disney Concert Hall

As you explore the area, you’ll find different spots at the Walt Disney Concert Hall for playful photo opportunities. The building’s reflective surfaces and dynamic shapes allow us to play with light and angles, creating creative and eye-catching images, which makes the Walt Disney Concert Hall, a perfect engagement shoot location.

Pros: Geometric shapes and patterns for abstract backgrounds; mix of contemporary architecture and urban landscape

Cons: Narrow walkways can limit shooting angles

3. Venice Canals

The Venice Canals is another iconic engagement photo shoot location. This one’s especially great for couples who want their engagement photos to have a laidback vibe. Picture yourself strolling along the serene walkways, surrounded by the gentle flow of water and quaint bridges.

Pros: Romantic walkways for couples shots; charismatic houses and gardens add character

Cons: Residential houses surround the area

4. Union Station

When you step inside, the ornate details of LA’s Union Station make you feel like you’ve traveled back in time. When you want a timeless and romantic setting, the unique elements of the station’s architecture set a classic vibe perfect for capturing your love story.

Pros: Beautiful Art Deco details; high ceilings and large windows add a touch of grandeur.

Cons: Noise from train activity

5. Marina Del Rey

Marina Del Rey features beautiful sunsets over the Pacific Ocean, creating warm, golden hour lighting that’s ideal for romantic engagement photos. Its blend of coastal charm and upscale ambiance offers several photo shoot spots, from boardwalks and sandy shores to chic restaurants and parks.

Pros: Coastal, relaxed atmosphere; proximity to other LA attractions for additional shooting locations

Cons: Potential challenges during windy conditions, which may affect hair and clothing

6. Vista Hermosa Park

Nestled between the urban landscape, Vista Hermosa Park is like a peaceful retreat with stunning views of the city skyline. The park’s natural beauty and city backdrop make it a perfect spot for engagement photos.

Pro: Meadows, walking trails, and picnic grounds add context for wide-angle shots; convenient commute options

Cons: City views may be obstructed on hazy days

7. Los Angeles County Museum of Art

As one of the popular places for engagement shoot areas in LA, the Los Angeles County Museum of Art has a unique blend of art, architecture, and iconic installations that create visually striking backgrounds. The museum’s outdoor exhibits, such as the famous “Urban Light” installation, provide instantly recognizable and romantic settings.

Pros: Variety of indoor and outdoor shooting locations; well-maintained and curated spaces

Cons: Limitations on props or equipment allowed inside the museum

8. Grand Central Market

Best for foodie couples, the Grand Central Market is a feast for your eyes and taste buds. With nearly 40 of LA’s best local eateries and produce shops, you can have a fun engagement shoot as you try various dishes from different countries.

Pros: Numerous food choices; colorful environment with unique lighting

Cons: Limited quiet or private areas

9. Downtown LA

As LA’s city center, Downtown Los Angeles blends modern architecture and historic charm, providing diverse settings for capturing special moments. Murals and industrial elements serve as creative backdrops, perfect for couples who love edgy cityscapes.

Pros: Architectural styles from different eras; variety of street scenes and urban backdrops

Downtown sees over 17 million visitors each year

How Do I Choose a Los Angeles Engagement Photo Location?

When choosing the best engagement shoot location in LA, consider your personal style and the atmosphere you want to capture in your photos. It’s also important to consider practical details like the weather, travel time, fees, accessibility, and crowd levels.

Why Should I Pick Los Angeles as an Engagement Photo Location?

You should choose to have your wedding and engagement photos taken in LA because of its diverse range of stunning backdrops, from beautiful beaches to iconic urban landscapes and picturesque natural settings. The city’s year-round pleasant weather and golden hour lighting create ideal conditions for capturing memorable and stunning engagement photos.

When Should I Schedule an Engagement Photo Shoot in Los Angeles?

It’s best to schedule your engagement photo shoot during the golden hour, typically an hour after sunrise or before sunset, for optimal lighting. Consider the season and any specific elements you want to capture, such as blooming flowers in spring or fall foliage.

Conclusion

LA features a wide range of beautiful locations that suit different engagement photo styles and preferences. From the bustling city vibe to peaceful nature spots, we can make use of any location from this list to take photographs that are an authentic reflection of your bond and distinctly Los Angeles.