14 Best Locations for Family Portraits and Engagement Shoots in Los Angeles and Orange County

Hi there! I'm Gil Marom Nielsen, and I’m thrilled to welcome you to the PolkaPop! blog. For those of you who don’t know me, I’ve spent years behind the camera capturing everything from special events to business promos. That said, today, I want to talk about something very close to my heart – family portraits and engagement shoots. Over the years, I’ve had the pleasure of photographing countless families and couples, and one question I always get asked is, "Where’s the best place to shoot?" Well, let me share some of my absolute favorite spots in Los Angeles and Orange County that are perfect for family photos and engagement sessions. Let’s dive in!

Los Angeles

Check out the Strzelecki Family gallery from our sessions at the Walt Disney Concert Hall and Griffith Observatory.

1. Walt Disney Concert Hall

The Walt Disney Concert Hall’s unique architecture, with its sweeping metallic curves, provides a stunning modern backdrop. This location is perfect for families and couples who want a touch of elegance and creativity in their photos. The combination of the urban setting and artistic design offers endless opportunities for dynamic shots.

2. Griffith Observatory

Griffith Observatory offers breathtaking views of Los Angeles, including the iconic Hollywood Sign. It’s a wonderful location for families and couples who appreciate both cityscapes and nature. The observatory itself, with its classic architecture, adds a timeless element to your photos, while the surrounding views provide a spectacular backdrop.

3. El Matador Beach

El Matador Beach in Malibu is a gem with its dramatic cliffs, rock formations, and scenic waves. It’s an ideal spot for families and couples who love the beach but want something a bit more unique and scenic. Sunset at El Matador is particularly magical, giving your photos a warm, golden glow that’s hard to beat.

4. Santa Monica Pier

The vibrant and lively Santa Monica Pier offers a mix of fun and nostalgia, making it a fantastic spot for family and engagement photos. The Ferris wheel, arcade games, and ocean views provide a playful and dynamic backdrop, perfect for capturing joyful moments and creating lasting memories.

5. Venice Canals

You don’t need to travel all the way to Venice, Italy, to experience charming canals. The Venice Canals in Los Angeles are a hidden treasure, offering a serene setting that feels like a little slice of Europe in LA. Stroll along the quaint bridges and charming waterways for intimate and relaxed family or engagement portraits. The lush greenery and beautiful homes along the canals make for an idyllic backdrop.

6. Old Pasadena

Old Pasadena is a charming historic district with cobblestone streets, vintage architecture, and vibrant storefronts, offering endless opportunities for capturing timeless images. This area is particularly great for out-of-town visitors, providing plenty of shopping and dining opportunities all within walking distance. It’s an ideal location for family and engagement photos, especially during festive seasons when the streets and alleys are beautifully decorated.

7. Urban Lights at LACMA

The Urban Lights installation at the Los Angeles County Museum of Art is an iconic spot, especially stunning at night when the lights are illuminated. This unique display of vintage street lamps provides a dramatic and artistic backdrop, ideal for families and couples looking for something different and visually striking in their photos.

Orange County

Check out Adrienne & Tyler's engagement gallery from our session at Thomas F. Riley Wilderness Park.

8. Thomas F. Riley Wilderness Park

Nestled in Coto de Caza, Thomas F. Riley Wilderness Park is perfect for families and couples who love nature. Its mix of oak woodlands, grassy meadows, and scenic trails offers a peaceful setting. This park is a great choice for capturing relaxed, natural moments with your loved ones.

9. Laguna Beach

Laguna Beach is renowned for its stunning coastline and charming coves. It’s an excellent spot for families and couples who want beautiful oceanfront photos with dramatic backdrops. The combination of sandy beaches and rocky cliffs provides a versatile and scenic environment for your family or engagement portraits.

Photo by Mark Rightmire, Orange County Register/SCNG

10. Irvine Regional Park

Irvine Regional Park in Orange features beautiful trees, open fields, a lake, and a charming train ride for kids. This park offers a variety of fun and scenic spots, making it ideal for capturing a range of family activities, from picnics to playful moments in the open fields, and romantic engagement sessions.

11. Mission San Juan Capistrano

The historic Mission San Juan Capistrano offers beautiful architecture and lush gardens, perfect for timeless family and engagement photos. The mission’s stone walls, fountains, and vibrant flowers create a serene backdrop that’s rich in history and beauty.

12. Newport Beach Pier

Newport Beach Pier provides stunning ocean views and a lively atmosphere, making it a great spot for dynamic family and engagement photos. Whether you’re capturing the playful moments of walking along the pier or the beauty of a sunset, this location offers plenty of scenic opportunities.

13. Noguchi Garden

Also known as California Scenario, Noguchi Garden in Costa Mesa is a hidden gem designed by Isamu Noguchi. This unique sculpture garden features elements representing California’s diverse landscapes, including desert, forest, and coastline. It’s an artistic and serene location perfect for families and couples looking for something unique and tranquil.

14. Balboa Island

Balboa Island is a charming location, perfect for a family photoshoot or an engagement session. With its quaint streets, lovely harbor views, and a variety of shops and restaurants, it offers a mix of scenic and vibrant backdrops. Stroll along the waterfront or explore the cozy streets for delightful and memorable photos.

Choosing the right location can make all the difference in your family and engagement photos. Whether you're drawn to the urban sophistication of Los Angeles, inspired by its iconic landmarks and artistic vibes, or the serene beauty of Orange County’s natural landscapes, inspired by its tranquility and charm, these spots offer a variety of stunning backdrops that tell your unique story.

Which of these stunning locations speaks to you? Are you ready to capture your family's special moments or your love story in these breathtaking, inspiring settings? Let’s create something extraordinary together. Contact us today to book your session and let's make every moment Pop!

With immense gratitude and excitement,

Gil Marom Nielsen