After blogging consistently for a couple of months, I’ve decided it’s time for a love letter to California’s beaches. You really can’t go wrong with any of these beaches, but it’s also just so fun to showcase what’s different about each one of them! I’m not a native Californian, so I’ve loved becoming a tourist via photography, and it’s led to me finding some fantastic spots to take my clients! Here are a few of my favorite beach spots in Southern California:
Salt Creek Beach Park: Dana Point
Salt Creek Beach deserves a spot at the top of my list. There’s just something so special about sunrise sessions here! The steep landscape in the background makes for wonderfully dramatic pictures, while the bright exposure from the sun and waves makes each of my couples really stand out. Something about this location just feels really laid back, but it doesn’t sink into looking too simple thanks to the dramatic background!
Thousand Steps Beach: Laguna Beach
Kendy’s bright and airy session at Thousand Steps in Laguna Beach just makes me so happy to look at. Thousand Steps Beach feels so secluded during the session, and it helps me create those atmospheric, light photos that my clients want! Also as a side note, the sand on this beach is absolutely 10/10.
Sunset Cliffs: San Diego
Every time I shoot at Sunset Cliffs, I end up with the most radiant, romantic photos. I mean, look at these brides and couples! Something about the cliffs just brings glowy romance! The colors that come through in photos at this location are just unparalleled. If this is your favorite aesthetic or vibe, I would love to take you to this dramatic beach for a session!
Palos Verdes
I did my most recent shoot at Palos Verdes, and we had an absolute blast! This diverse setting is perfect for the all-encompassing nature lover, because we get the chance to capture shots showing the water and the green, rocky landscape as well. Riley and Carlos did amazing at this shoot, and the photos came across looking very genuine and authentic, which is yet another great part of choosing this beach for your session.
San Clemente State Beach
San Clemente State Beach is the picture-perfect beach for a classic photography session! At this spot, there’s the potential for those sweet, beachy shots while also capturing the quintessential California background that so many imagine having in their sessions.
While these may be some of my favorite spots, I am always eager to try new beaches and expand my SoCal horizons! If you would like a session at any of these locations, or have somewhere new that you’re wanting to try, I’d love the chance to connect with you!
Cheers, Alaina
-Maryanne, February 2022 Bride
On top of how perfect her photography is, working with her is an absolute joy! She is so kind and funny and made us feel so comfortable.
"Alaina showcased our love authentically"
-Veronica, August 2022 bride
She is an expert at making you and your significant other laugh, is incredibly detail-oriented and organized, and truly cares about capturing your wedding day perfectly.
"Alaina truly cares."
- Tracie, October 2021 bride
Alaina is spunky and fun and full of great ideas. She made my fiance and I feel so comfortable during our time together. We loved all the candid photos she caught of us!
"Alaina had us laughing the whole time"
