Best Engagement Session Locations in LA

El Matador State Beach
This Malibu beach is a favorite for couples who want something epic yet romantic. It's best at sunset, when the light hits the rocks just right. Be ready for sandy toes and stunning photos. See full engagement session here. 

LA Arboretum
A perfect mix of floral gardens, lush trees, and even peacocks. It’s great for couples who want a colorful, serene setting with a natural feel

Griffith Observatory
If you want that sweeping view of the city with soft sunset light, Griffith is perfect. You get skyline, greenery, and iconic LA in one place. It’s especially magical during golden hour. See full engagement session here. 

Santa Monica Pier & Beach
For couples who love movement and fun, the pier is unbeatable. Think arcade games, cotton candy, and barefoot beach shots — all in one session. Sunset here is unbeatable. See full engagement session here.

Griffith Park
A hidden nook of Griffith Park that feels like a forest. Quiet trails, ferns, and bridges give your session an earthy, storybook vibe without leaving LA. See full engagement session here. 

Leo Carrillo State Beach
If you want a Malibu beach that’s more private and adventurous than the usual tourist spots, Leo Carrillo is a gem. Bring a blanket and we’ll shoot as the waves roll in. See full engagement session here. 


LACMA Urban Lights
The rows of vintage street lamps create a stunning (and very Instagrammable) backdrop. Best for couples who want a little drama and a lot of city style. See full engagement session here. 

Beverly Hills Cactus Garden
Full of bold textures and sun-soaked beauty. It’s quiet, unique, and totally different from the usual city or beach spots — perfect for couples who want something off the beaten path. See full engagement session here. 

Los Angeles Engagement Session Tips

Pick a Location That Feels Like You
LA has so many amazing spots — beaches, mountains, urban streets, gardens — but the best one is the place that feels most like you two. Think about what you love doing together: grabbing coffee downtown, hiking in the hills, or walking barefoot at the beach. That vibe should guide your location.

✨ Bonus tip: I always help my couples narrow it down based on lighting, crowd levels, and parking (because LA traffic is real).

Golden Hour is Your Best Friend
The light in LA is dreamy especially about an hour before sunset. That golden glow adds warmth, depth, and a magical touch to your photos. Sunrise is another underrated option if you’re early risers and want fewer crowds.

Best times:
  • Beach sessions: 1–1.5 hours before sunset
  • Gardens/urban locations: 1.5–2 hours before sunset or sunrise for softer light

Dress Comfortably (but Make It You!)
  • You don’t have to wear a gown or a suit — unless you want to. Your outfit should feel like something you’d wear on a really good date. I recommend:
  • Neutral or earthy tones that complement your location
  • Avoiding busy patterns or neon colors
  • Bringing 1–2 outfits for variety (one casual, one more elevated)

And yes — bring comfy shoes for walking between spots!

Make It Personal
Want to bring your dog? A picnic blanket? Film cameras? Your favorite drinks? Do it. Props aren’t necessary, but if there's something meaningful to you, it makes your session feel more you and helps loosen things up.

Ideas:
  • First date location (or similar)
  • A hobby you love together (surfing, record shopping, books)
  • A car, skateboard, or anything that tells a story

Plan for Traffic + Parking
It’s LA, so plan to arrive early. Popular spots like Griffith or El Matador can get crowded or have limited parking. I always send a custom timeline and detailed location info so we stay relaxed and un-rushed.

Pro tip: Always allow for 15–30 mins of buffer time — it’s better to wait in your car than be stressed arriving late.

Trust the Process
Even if you’re feeling awkward or unsure at first, you’ll warm up quickly. I’ll guide you through the session so you don’t have to worry about posing or what to do with your hands. My goal is to make it feel like a really fun date with a third wheel (me) hyping you up in the best lighting possible.

Let’s Have Fun With It
Your engagement session is about celebrating who you are together — not being perfect. Laugh a lot, move around, and don’t worry if your hair blows or your shoe gets sandy. That’s part of the magic.
Inquire 

Looking for an engagement photographer in Los Angeles who gets you? I’m Magaly — a Southern California wedding and engagement photographer who creates laid-back, guided sessions that focus on real connection. Whether we shoot in Malibu, DTLA, Griffith Park, or a spot that’s special to you, I’ll help you feel relaxed so your photos reflect your actual relationship — not a bunch of stiff poses.

Meet Your Los Angeles Engagement Photographer

Helpful Reads for LA Couples

What to Wear for Your Beach Photo Session

When to Take Engagement Photos in LA

Engagement Photography in Los Angeles That Feels Like You

Not into stiff poses or fake smiles? Same.
My approach to engagement photography is laid-back, guided, and centered around you being yourselves. Whether we’re wandering through Griffith Park, getting sandy in Malibu, or exploring your favorite coffee shop downtown, I’ll help you feel comfortable in front of the camera — so your photos look and feel natural, emotional, and 100% you.


Want photos that feel like you, not just another Pinterest board? [Let’s chat ➝]

los Angeles Engagement Photography

 starting at $450

  • 45 minutes - 1 hour
  • 1 outfit
  • unlimited photos
  • online gallery 
  • print release

Inquire Here

 FAQ – Los Angeles Engagement Sessions

When should we take engagement photos?
Golden hour (about 1–2 hours before sunset) is best for dreamy, flattering light. Spring and fall offer the best weather in LA, but we can shoot year-round!

How far in advance should we book?
Most couples book 1–3 months out. If you want a weekend date or a specific location, the sooner the better!

How long is a session?
Sessions typically last 1–1.5 hours — enough time for 1–2 outfits and exploring your chosen location.

Can we choose the location?
Absolutely! I have a curated list of the best engagement spots in Los Angeles — beaches, city views, gardens, and more. I’ll help you pick one that fits your vibe.

What should we wear?
Wear something that makes you feel confident and comfortable. I’ll send a styling guide after you book, and I’m always happy to help you choose outfits that photograph beautifully.

Do you offer outfit changes?
Yes! Most couples do one casual look and one dressier outfit. We’ll plan enough time to make the swap easy.

Can we bring props or our dog?
Of course! Pets, champagne, vintage cars — whatever tells your story. Just let me know ahead of time so we can plan for it.

How long until we get our photos?
You’ll receive a preview gallery within a few days, and the full edited gallery within 2–3 weeks via an online link you can easily download and share.