As a wedding photographer in beautiful Southern California, I’m constantly amazed by the stunning natural landscapes that provide the perfect backdrop for engagement sessions. Fall is a particularly magical time, with the changing colors of the foliage adding a warm and romantic touch to every photo. So, let’s grab our cameras and explore the 4 best outdoor fall engagement locations in this enchanting region.
Oak Canyon Nature Center – Anaheim Hills, CA
Oak Canyon Nature Center is a hidden gem nestled in the heart of Anaheim Hills. This 58-acre natural park offers a year-round stream that meanders through the canyons, creating a serene and picturesque outdoor fall engagement setting.
As you wander along the four miles of hiking trails, you’ll be surrounded by the beauty of oak woodlands and coastal sage scrub, creating a captivating and romantic atmosphere. The native wildlife that calls this canyon home adds a touch of whimsy to your photos, making every shot even more memorable.
With the John J. Collier Interpretive Center on-site, you can explore live animals and regional natural history exhibits, adding an educational and interactive element to your engagement session.
Thomas F. Riley Wilderness Park – Coto de Caza, CA
Thomas F. Riley Wilderness Park is a true sanctuary of nature’s wonders. This 544-acre wilderness park boasts an abundance of native plants and animal life, creating a rustic and natural setting for your outdoor fall engagement photos.
The old groves of Western Sycamores and Coast Live Oaks, alongside the flowing creeks, add a touch of tranquility and romance to your session. The rolling hills and canyons of Coastal Sage Scrub and grasslands provide a stunning canvas for capturing your love story against the beauty of Southern California’s landscape.
Crystal Cove – Newport Beach, CA
Crystal Cove State Park is a true treasure of Orange County, with its vast expanse of open space and natural seashore. The park features 3.2 miles of pristine beach and 2,400 acres of backcountry wilderness, offering a breathtaking setting for your fall engagement session.
The federally listed Historic District within the park, featuring vintage rustic coastal cottages from the 1930s and 40s, adds a touch of nostalgic charm and romance to your photos. The beautiful beach, the coastal cottages, and the surrounding wilderness create a diverse and captivating environment, perfect for capturing love in its purest form.
Table Rock – Laguna Beach, CA
Table Rock in Laguna Beach is a hidden treasure that exudes an irresistible allure. With a mix of seclusion and space, the raw scenery of this location creates an enchanting backdrop for your outdoor fall engagement session.
The beach is split in half by a flat rock, which gives it its name and adds a unique element to your photos. On calm days, exploring the rock and surrounding formations adds a sense of adventure and romance to your session. The beach’s picturesque beauty and the presence of skilled pro skimboarders on bigger surf days create a captivating and dynamic atmosphere for your engagement photos.
While Table Rock may not be the easiest location to access, the effort is well worth it. The approach, like something out of a movie, sets the stage for an unforgettable and adventurous engagement session.
As the season changes and the foliage transforms into a kaleidoscope of warm colors, Southern California’s outdoor fall engagement locations become even more enchanting. From the hidden oasis of Oak Canyon Nature Center and the wildlife sanctuary of Thomas F. Riley Wilderness Park to the vintage charm of Crystal Cove and the secluded allure of Table Rock, each location offers a unique and captivating backdrop for capturing the essence of your love.
As a wedding photographer in this picturesque region, I can’t wait to join you on your journey to explore these stunning outdoor fall engagement locations and document your love story amidst nature’s breathtaking canvas. Let’s create memories that will warm your hearts for years to come as we celebrate the beauty of your love and the wonders of Southern California.
Looking for more engagement photo locations in SoCal? If so, I have tons of ideas under the “Engagement” category of my blog here! And if you liked the photos above or would like for me to shoot your engagement session, click here to submit an inquiry!
Lastly, don’t forget to keep in touch with me on Instagram & Pinterest.
XOXO
Shelby
