Northern California Engagement Photo Locations [Popular & Secret]

When my clients ask about the Northern California engagement photo locations, I’m a bit confused as each area is exquisite and brings a special vibe to a photo shoot.

My couples always search for diverse settings that reflect their personalities, and Northern California has something to offer to every taste.

From the steep mountains of Big Sur to the romantic cityscape of San Francisco, each location has its own appeal.

As I have vast experience in conducting romantic photoshoots, I’ve created a list of my favorite romantic spots that either I or my clients have visited.

Address: Point Reyes National Seashore, Marin County, CA

Best time to visit: Sunrise or early morning to avoid fog and crowds

Permit requirements: Need for some spots, especially near the lighthouse and tree tunnel

Point Reyes is one of the greatest locations to visit and organize a romantic photo session. This area is characterized by a variety of amazing landscapes including cypress tree tunnels, pristine unending shorelines, etc. Many visitors claim that this beach looks like the White Cliffs of Dover in the UK.

Sunsets here are beautiful and ominous. The light is soft, which is ideal for implementing your dreamy engagement photo idea. There are few people in this area, which is a considerable plus for photographers like me.

No matter whether you are traveling in the northern or southern part of the location, the view still be fantastic. I also recommend taking your time and enjoying the drive in the countryside to reveal other gems.

Address: Highway 1, Big Sur, CA

Best time to visit: Weekdays during golden hour for flattering lighting and fewer visitors

Permit requirements: None for public spaces; some private properties can’t be accessed without permission

This is probably one of the most spectacular locations for conducting wedding or engagement photo sessions. I think this coastline is the most beautiful stretch in the world. The dynamic setting of waves crashing against steep cliffs is complemented by the serene background with peaceful mountains.

The drive here is also magnificent whether you’re coming from the north or southern California engagement photo locations.

Big Sur offers a mix of romantic sunsets and epic landscapes, so each couple will find something to their taste. The highlight of this area is Bixby Bridge. It provides dramatic views of the Pacific Ocean and the Big Sur coastline. McWay Falls attracts tourists with an 80-foot waterfall cascading onto a secluded beach.

Address: Ocean Ave, Carmel-By-The-Sea, CA

Best time to visit: Early morning or late afternoon is not crowded and offers softer light

Permit requirements: Not usually needed, but check for specific beach areas

I often recommend my couples to visit Carmel, as it offers an amazing mix of natural scenery and rich artistic history. The town is pet-welcoming and also attracts visitors with multiple hotels, restaurants, and retail establishments, which you can attend with your furry friends. Although this area is rather small, it is packed with many scenic spots, which are easy to access.

This engagement photo location in northern California appeals to tourists with its romantic and quiet settings, which provide comfort. The golden hour photos taken here feature amazing light, making each shot like a real masterpiece. For couples looking for a more adventurous vibe, I suggest exploring one of Carmel's nearby state parks or nature reserves. Offering the mix of beach and village vibes, here you’ll find the desired atmosphere.

Address: Half Moon Bay State Beach, Half Moon Bay, CA

Best time to visit: Sunset for the flattering light and fewer beachgoers

Permit requirements: Is not required unless shooting on private property

Half Moon Bay provides various stunning locations for couples photography, which is why it is incredibly popular. Tourists usually head to Pillar Point Harbor, which offers a scenic harbor and lighthouse. Whereas the beachgoers prefer the area’s sandy beaches and dramatic cliffs. The rugged cliffs create an eye-grabbing contrast, which results in an original coastal backdrop.

For clients who prefer a rustic atmosphere, I always recommend the Fitzgerald Marine Reserve. The highlight of this location is the historic downtown area, which is full of charming backdrops and spots. Here it is easy to take candid and exquisite shots.

Address: Bodega Bay, CA

Best time to visit: Early morning or sunset for dramatic lighting and fewer tourists

Permit requirements: None unless in protected areas like Bodega Head

For couples searching for a dramatic backdrop for their engagement photography, I suggest Bodega Bay’s rocky shorelines and sweeping ocean views. The coastal line is rugged, which gives the place an adventurous vibe. While the crashing waves add a dynamic element to the images.

The moody atmosphere created by dense fog is the reason why this place is so popular among my clients. One of my favorite shots here is a couple standing on the rocks, waves crashing behind them, which is both a powerful and romantic shot.

Address: Yosemite National Park, CA

Best time to visit: Sunrise or early morning for the best light and fewer tourists

Permit requirements: Required for all professional photography within the park

Yosemite is one of the greatest engagement photo locations in Northern California, which boasts rumbling waterfalls, and giant granite cliffs, making it ideal for clients who adore outdoor couple photo ideas. The park is open all year round, so you can visit it anytime you like.

The popular road to Glacier Point is not accessible from winter to early spring, so checking the road conditions before going is a must. Winter is magical and not crowded here, so I like this spot for romantic photography.

Head to Yosemite in the early morning and late afternoon for a dreamy light, so plan your sightseeing accordingly.

Address: Mount Tamalpais State Park, Mill Valley, CA

Best time to visit: Sunrise or sunset for sweeping views and beautiful light

Permit requirements: None for general areas; parking can be limited

Mount Tam is only 1.5 hours north of San Francisco, and to get there you’ll need to drive through miles of redwoods, steep hills, and endless views of the Pacific Coast. My clients always enjoy picturesque sunsets and a dreamy atmosphere here.

If you want to organize your engagement or romantic anniversary photoshoot in greenery, just take a stroll in the woods or explore this place in the spring to see the transformation of the hills.

Moreover, here I often shoot couples hiking up the mountain and making a break to contemplate the mesmerizing view of the city below. Although this place is not far from San Francisco, it gives my clients the feeling of escape.

Address: Butte Meadows, CA

Best time to visit: Late afternoon to catch the sun streaming through the trees

Permit requirements: None needed

Butte Meadow is a hidden photography location. If you want to go to Yosemite for pics and love its amazing views but your budget is restricted, this place is the best possible alternative. It is not crowded and is less expensive.

This is an ideal location for my mountain-loving clients, as here they can find rolling hills, amazing hillside views, multiple small creeks, and nooks. Tourists and photography enthusiasts appreciate the serene and private atmosphere of this place. And I often shoot the couples in the midst of towering trees or by a creek.

Address: Muir Woods National Monument, Mill Valley, CA

Best time to visit: Early morning to avoid crowds and capture soft light

Permit requirements: Required for professional photography

Muir Woods is probably the most popular photography location among my clients and couples ordering the services of wedding photographers. Hidden in West Marin, Muir Woods is an iconic Redwood forest, which served as a perfect location for the forest moon of Endor seen in Star Wars Episode VI: Return of the Jedi.

All the trees in the park are majestic and over 500+ years old. They were witnesses of the time before Shakespeare, Michelangelo, the creation of the Ottoman Empire, and the Forbidden City. Muir Beach, which is not far away, is a frequently visited place that attracts people with beautiful coastal sunsets.

Address: Millville Plains, CA

Best time to visit: Late spring for golden fields or sunset for warm light

Permit requirements: None, but it’s private land, so be respectful

Millville Plains is a classic and versatile engagement photo location in Northern California, which makes it an ideal option for different photoshoots, especially engagements and Valentine’s Day photoshoots. When I started to work in the Northern California area, this was the place where I brought most clients. It offers amazing lighting and wide endless meadows are simply great for organizing a shoot.

This place pops up in my mind every time clients ask for a simple classic look for their engagement shots. The simple backdrop brings the focus on the couple's outfit and tiny but so important details. As there is much space for moving and running, dynamic photos are guaranteed.

Address: San Francisco, CA

Best time to visit: Sunrise for iconic Golden Gate shots, or sunset for Palace of Fine Arts

Permit requirements: Required for specific parks and landmarks like the Golden Gate Park

San Francisco boasts both magnificent cityscapes and natural attractions, from the iconic Golden Gate Bridge to the charming streets of Nob Hill. I usually invite couples to pose against the backdrop of the city skyline or in front of the bridge.

San Franciso is abound of different spots, which are ideal for urban photography or relaxed photo sessions at the beach.

The list of my favorite spots in San Francisco includes the following:

• Presidio - Early morning or late afternoon, no permits required.
• Palace of Fine Arts - Early morning, no permits required.
• San Francisco City Hall - Weekdays early morning, no permits required.
• Embarcadero - Late afternoon or sunset, no permits required.
• Baker Beach - Sunset for beautiful lighting, no permits required.
• Conservatory of Flowers - Morning when the garden opens, permits are required for professional shoots.
• Lands End - Late afternoon for sunset views, no permits required.
• Stanford Cactus Garden - Late afternoon for soft light, no permits required.
• Japanese Tea Garden - Early morning or weekdays, admission fee, photography permits needed for professional shoots.
• Crissy Field - Late afternoon or sunset, no permits required.
• Don Edwards National Wildlife Refuge - Early morning for wildlife activity, no permits required.
• Leo J. Ryan Park - Late afternoon or early evening, no permits required.
• Sutro Baths - Sunset for stunning views, no permits required.

Address: Downtown Sacramento, CA

Best time to visit: Late afternoon for softer light and fewer crowds

Permit requirements: Not typically required for most street photography

Downtown Sacramento is where the historic architecture intersperses with modern buildings, which makes this place suitable for urban engagement photoshoots. I love photographing relaxed poses of my couples at the Capitol building, where the spirit of history hovers. Afterward, I head to Old Sacramento to capture the rustic vibe of the area.

This location is flexible, so clients can dress in any clothes they prefer, keeping it festive or casual. One of my favorite shots was a couple walking through Old Sacramento’s wooden boardwalks at sunset when the city lights were turning on.

Address: Lake Tahoe, CA

Best time to visit: Sunrise or sunset for incredible lighting

Permit requirements: Not typically required for public spaces; some private resorts need permission

For me, South Lake Tahoe is one of the best engagement photo locations in Northern California. Nestled on the California side of the lake, it provides gorgeous views.

Whether my couples are interested in snowy engagement pics, warm golden lake beach shots, or just want to discover the attractions of this National Park, South Lake Tahoe is an ideal place for shooting all the creative photos.

Address: Shasta Lake, Shasta-Trinity National Forest, CA

Best time to visit: Early morning or late afternoon for soft light

Permit requirements: None needed

Shasta Lake is one of the most visited locations among engagement photographers. It features a peaceful backdrop created by expansive waters surrounded by mountains. To capture the beauty of shimmering water, we usually hire a boat or organize the shoot on the shore.

The lake is beautiful and brings some peace to the area, giving a feeling of tranquility. My favorite pic showcases a couple posing on a dock with a lake enveloping them and the mountains reflected in the water. At the sunset, every spot is covered with mesmerizing golden blow, creating an adorable scene.

Address: Donner Lake, Truckee, CA

Best time to visit: Sunrise or sunset for soft, golden light

Permit requirements: None needed for public areas

Donner Lake is my go-to alternative to Lake Tahoe for those who are longing for even more peace and tranquility with equally stunning views and a serene atmosphere. Tucked away amidst forest hills and mountains, the lake creates a stunning contrast to the calm waters.

My couples like this place because of its relaxed atmosphere and the ability to shoot intimate couple poses without being confused by viewers. The greatest photo idea I often realize in this place is when a couple stands by the lake at sunset, the water reflecting the orange and pink hues of the sky. This location is an ideal spot for nature enthusiasts who do not like being in crowded areas.

Address: Shoreline Dr, Alameda, CA

Best time to visit: Golden hour for warm, soft light

Permit requirements: None needed

I often offer my clients who are looking for a unique twist to head to Alameda Beach, as this East Bay engagement photo location is actually an unusual mix of sandy shores and city skyline views.

The contrast of the calm bay waters with the distant San Francisco skyline creates a shot-worthy scene. The laid-back vibe and magical sunsets are what attract clients most of all.

Address: 1150 9th St #1500, Modesto, CA 95354

Best time to visit: Early spring when the almond blossoms are in full bloom

Permit requirements: Permission needed from private orchard owners

The almond orchards in Central Valley boasting a breathtaking variety of white and pink blossoms create a loveable atmosphere for candid photos.

It is easy to capture magical pics here: the couples should only walk hand in hand beneath the blossoms and an amazing shot is guaranteed. The fairy-like setting and dreamy vibe make it an excellent engagement photo location in Northern California for all types of shoots. Do not forget to arrange your session with orchard owners, as these are usually private.