If you’re looking for advice on how to plan engagement photos in Laguna Beach, you’re in the right place. 

With its stunning coastal views, golden light, and romantic hideaways, we find Laguna Beach to be one of the most picturesque spots in all of Southern California. 

As local wedding and engagement photographers, we have explored nearly every corner of this coastal gem—and we’re here to help you plan a session that’s beautiful and authentic.

When to Schedule Your Engagement Session

For the dreamiest lighting, we recommend scheduling your shoot during golden hour—roughly one hour before sunset. This time of day gives your photos a soft, romantic glow while also avoiding harsh midday shadows. 

Early morning sessions are a great option too, especially if you want quiet beaches and soft pastel skies.

Best Laguna Beach Locations for Engagement Photos

One of the most exciting parts of planning engagement photos in Laguna Beach is choosing your location. Here are a few of my top picks:

• The Montage Hotel – Gorgeous grounds, ocean cliffs, and a luxe vibe make this a top choice for elegant couples. See this post for inspiration.
  
• Emerald Bay – A private beach with breathtaking views (available with access), perfect for something exclusive.
  
• Crescent Bay – Quiet and serene, ideal for romantic and intimate moments. Check out this shoot for inspiration.
  
• Treasure Island – Offers dramatic cliffs, walking paths, and a variety of backdrops in one area. See this post for inspiration.
  
• Surf and Sand Resort – A beachside classic, great for couples wanting to mix casual luxury with coastal charm. Check out this post for inspiration.
  
• Shaws Cove – A local favorite with rocky outcroppings and turquoise water.
  
• Crystal Cove – With historic cottages, open sand, and a rustic vibe, this location brings charm and character. See this post for inspiration.
  

Want even more ideas? I’ve put together a list of some of my favorite locations—plus a few secret spots you won’t find on Google. Check out this post for more hidden gems in Laguna Beach engagement photography.

What to Wear for Your Laguna Beach Session

When planning your outfits, keep the scenery in mind. Soft neutrals, natural tones, and flowy fabrics always work well with the coastal backdrop. Avoid busy prints, and consider bringing two outfits to show off different sides of your style—one dressy, one casual.

Additional Pro Tips for a Smooth Session

Schedule your session on a weekday whenever possible.

Laguna Beach is a popular destination not just for locals, but also for tourists—especially on weekends. Planning your engagement session for a weekday helps you avoid crowds and gives you a more relaxed, intimate atmosphere. Plus, you’ll have more freedom to move between spots without waiting for large groups to clear out of your background.

Always check the tide schedules before your shoot.

Many of Laguna Beach’s most beautiful features—like tide pools, caves, and secret coves—are only accessible at low tide. Checking the tide schedule ahead of time allows us to time your session perfectly, ensuring we can safely access these stunning spots without rushing or risking high water levels cutting us off. I always check this for you, but it’s good to be aware if you have a specific location in mind.

Plan to arrive early and allow extra time for parking

Laguna Beach parking can be challenging, especially near popular beaches and resorts. Even on weekdays, finding a spot can take longer than expected. Build in at least 15–20 extra minutes into your arrival time. This will help you stay relaxed and ensure we can start your session on time—making the most of the beautiful light.

Trust your photographer to lead the way.

One of the best ways to enjoy your session is to relax and trust the process. I’ll guide you through natural poses, help you feel comfortable in front of the camera, and make sure we’re using the best possible lighting. Engagement photos should be fun, romantic, and stress-free—and part of my job is making sure you not only look amazing but genuinely feel amazing throughout the shoot.

Let’s Make It Happen

Now that you know how to plan engagement photos in Laguna Beach, the only thing left is to get you in front of the camera. With the perfect location, dreamy light, and a relaxed vibe, we’ll create images that capture your love story in a way that’s both natural and unforgettable.

Ready to plan your dream Laguna Beach engagement session? Get in touch here and let’s start creating something magical together.