Location Guide
San Diego & its surrounding areas are full of so many gorgeous options to use as a backdrop for your photos. We are so lucky to have the option of the beach, mountains or luscious fields. The options are endless so I want to make sure we find a landscape that speaks to you & your family!
Things to keep in mind when choosing a location:
-Many factors come into play when choosing a location. Some beaches are simply inaccessible at high tide. Likewise, some mountain locations require an earlier start time due to the sun going behind the hills early. Light also plays a huge role in what makes a location magical. I tend to shoot in spots more off the beaten trail as I find it's easier for my clients to relax and enjoy their session when they aren't surrounded by crowds. All of the locations within this document are places I have shot before so I know the ins and outs of each spot!
-I often tell my clients to choose a location that speaks to them. If you & your family don't love the beach, let's go inland instead! If you guys love adventure, lets go to the top of a mountain! I have spent so much time scouting out amazing locations around San Diego so that there are plenty for you to choose from.
- Your session only lasts until the sun sets to ensure the best light Since most of these locations are very far apart from one another, we will only be able to do one location for your shoot.
Wright's Field - Alpine
I love this field because it's so beautiful and versatile. The light here is incredible and the hills in the distance offer such a gorgeous backdrop. It also has plenty of open field, lots of trees, and large boulders that we can shoot in front ot (or climb on!). Because it is such a vast area, it is so easy to find spots that are very private. At most, I usually just encounter the occasional hiker.
Torrey Pines State Beach
This is a gorgeous location, and offers so much variety. Depending on the length of your session, we typically start out near the top parking lot, where there's open trails, greenery, and stunning views. For the last portion of your session, we can head down to the beach and get some shots on the rocky sand and play in the water. Please note that there is a $20 fee per vehicle at this location to be paid by the customer.
Windandsea Beach - La Jolla
This is one of my favorite beaches to do sessions at! Besides the beautiful sand and waves, it also features some really neat rock formations and cliffs to add variety to your images. This spot mostly has surfers, and the occasional photographer doing their own sessions.
Secret Beach - La Jolla
This beach is near Windandsea, but features more natural rocks and is a bit more secluded. Please note that depending on tide level, this beach does feature a spot that may have difficulty access.
Sunset Cliffs- Ocean Beach
True to it’s name, Sunset Cliffs is one of the best spots to watch the sunset! It is also a huge area along the cliffs, making it easy to find a semi-private and intimate spot. Please note that an early arrival is recommended as parking can be difficult to find.
Lake Cuyamaca
Lake Cuyamaca is a woodsy area with a large lake and a pretty meadow surrounded by hills. The lake provides a stunning backdrop with its pretty blue shade, and we can also venture onto the more wooded areas. Things to keep in mind: There is a $10 parking fee that must be paid at the tackle shop upon entering to be paid by the customer for both he photographer and the customer's vehicles. Also, during the winter, temperatures can drastically drop.
Lake Cuyamaca- Location 2
This is another area of Lake Cuyamaca that features a bridge, lots of beautiful trails surrounded by trees and the waterfront. Things to keep in mind: There is a $10 parking fee that must be paid at the tackle shop upon entering to be paid by the customer for both he photographer and the customer's vehicles. Also, during the winter, temperatures can drastically drop. This location does require more walking, than the previous location which is right in front of the lake. We will typically walk and shoot, but comfortable shoes are recommended.