As LGBTQ+ wedding photographers, we love San Diego. Our Goal is to find the friendliest locations, and this city is full of them. One of our favorites for so many reasons, from beautiful parks to art you can’t find anywhere else on earth, this city is waiting for you to discover all it has to offer. From the more traditional to the off beat, San Diego has something for everyone. We have combed the city to find some of the most special places for wedding photos, but don’t feel like you need to go on a mission to get “the perfect shot”. Most of the time it will find you when you aren’t paying attention. Take time to stop by cafes and breweries, visit funky shops, do your thing. This day is all about you, and it should be documented that way.
Balboa Park Wedding Photo Locations
We can’t get enough of Balboa Park. Covering 1,200 acres, this historic and friendly park is all you could ever want in a wedding photo location. There’s so much to discover, from forest paths and hidden garden nooks, to amusement park rides, even a zoo! Balboa Park is large enough to be a one-stop-shop for your wedding photos, so make a day out of it. Pack a picnic and grab a map; start at the Botanical Building and Lily Pond, which are some of the most photographed spots in the park. Try to get there a little earlier for a quiet moment and to avoid the crowds. Then, head over to Alcazar Garden for a more striking background in their classic Spanish courtyard and garden. Finish your day in the Japanese Friendship Garden, strolling through the large mazes of roses and rock gardens.
Coronado Island
Right in the middle of San Diego Bay is Coronado Island. Long stretches of golden beaches and coves tucked into the dunes make this island one of a kind. A short drive over the Coronado Bridge, this lively community is full of charm. Stroll down the boardwalk and explore shops, or take a break and play some games during your photo shoot. The museums and art galleries along Orange Avenue are definitely worth a visit. Be sure to check with these venues about photo shoots before you plan to visit. The Ferry Landing boasts amazing views of the San Diego skyline, and is a must at sunset. On the other side of the island is Glorietta Bay, a lovely and quiet beach which has views of San Diego and the Coronado Bridge.
La Jolla Cove
About 20 minutes North from downtown San Diego is La Jolla Cove, an iconic California beach destination. Gorgeous blue waters meet golden sands and rocky cliffs on this enchanting beach. This beach is a protected marine area, and full of amazing wildlife, but swimming is still allowed and encouraged! A popular area, La Jolla can be pretty crowded during mid-day, so we suggest checking it out earlier in the day or at sunset. We think that those are some of the best times to catch the light in this unique location. See if you can find the Hidden Swings, an art installment which changes locations every once in a while. Always looking out over the ocean, we think these mysterious swings are perfect for capturing romantic moments. We do know, however, that there is a permanent swing near Scripp’s Pier, just a short walk up Expedition Way.
Queen Califia’s Magical Circle
This fascinating sculpture garden sits in the arboretum of the Kit Carson Park in Escondito. From the entry, a maze winds around the outside of the garden and leads you to a courtyard in the center of the Magical Circle. Stop and take pictures along the black and white tiled wall, or on one of the many benches built into the installment. The 12 freestanding sculptures displayed throughout the Circle were created to be touched and climbed on, so feel free to explore the space. Free to the public and open daily, this is certainly a unique setting for your wedding day photos.
Sunset Cliffs Natural Park
A dedicated naural park in San Diego, Sunset Cliffs has 68 acres of beautiful beaches and cliffs for you to explore that are perfect for wedding photos. Welcoming to all walks of life, this LGBTQ+ friendly area is ideal for wedding photographers looking to take advantage of San Diego’s natural light. Discover caves and hidden coves as you wander the mile and a half stretch of coastline. Lookout areas at the top of the cliffs are perfect spots to have a sunset picnic and take pictures. As wedding photographers, we love this San Diego gem. Point Loma Lighthouse is also not far away, and is worth the visit.
The New Children’s Museum:
Despite the name, the New Children’s Museum isn’t just for kids. LGBTQ+ and photographer friendly, this San Diego location is full of interactive displays and places to take one-of-a-kind wedding pictures. The Whammock is really cool, it’s basically a jungle gym made out of crocheted nylon. Super strong, this feature is great for couples looking to get a little silly and laugh a lot. There are murals by different artists all over the building, which means you have tons of cool places to take photos. El Mas Alla is one of our favorite exhibits that is on display right now. It celebrates mindfulness and love through color and funky experiences. Call the museum ahead of time to find out about any special events or restrictions.
Spruce Street Suspension Bridge
Hidden in the heart of downtown San Diego is one of our favorite spots. A choice spot for locals and tourists alike, the Spruce Street suspension bridge is an engineering marvel and is the perfect place for easy to access nature pictures. Built in 1922, it stretches 375 feet over the lush foliage of Sessions Canyon sets the background for one of a kind photo shoot. Not for the faint of heart, this pedestrian-only bridge sits 70 feet above the canyon floor, and can sway in the breeze. Balboa Park is close by, and makes visiting this romantic spot easy to do any time of day.
Shoot With Seas Mtns Co
Although we are a New England- based wedding photography company, we love to travel. No matter where you choose to hold your wedding, we will be there, catching the most important moments. For us, wedding photography is about more than just snagging perfect pictures. Our company focuses on a documentary-like approach to form a complete story of your wedding day. Here at Seas Mtns Co, we like to go above and beyond. Our photographers arrive well before appointments to find amazing spots that highlight every moment. Seas Mtns Co also offers videography and has the ability to operate drones through Part 107. For more ideas, check out our page on San Diego wedding venues.
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