Franchesca and Che Hashim celebrated their engagement with a photo shoot at the Conservatory of Flowers. (Photo by Jenn Emerling)
Engaged? 13 Magical Spots for Photo Shoots in the Bay Area
27 February 2018
You've decided to spend the rest of your days with the love of your life. Once upon a time, you might have shouted your happiness from the rooftops. But in modern-day San Francisco, you're most likely planning to flood your social feeds with shiny, mushy selfies (#couplegoals, #humblebrag).
Sure, your iPhone X can handle it, but why not go for gold and hire a real human to capture the moment for you—there are tons of wonderful pro photogs here in the Bay Area. You'll want to choose a location that fits your vibe as a couple; and if you're a real bridezilla, one that matches your wedding color palette (we know there are a few of you out there!). Luckily, there's literally no shortage of photogenic sites both inside the city and just a few miles away. See where these Bay Area couples said "We almost do!" for the camera, and perhaps find your own photographer along the way.
de Young Museum
Rachael and Mohammad, at de Young Museum.
Landscapes may be one of the most popular choices for engagement pics, but there's perhaps no more artful backdrop to be found than at one of the city's choice museums. Here Rachael and Mohammad made a sunset of their own in the halls of the de Young.
San Francisco City Hall
(Photo by Gillian Walsworth)
Take a spin at SF City Hall.
The Beaux-Arts corridors of San Francisco City Hall make for beautiful, airy shots. Arched windows, intricate carvings, and vaulted ceilings, and columns evoke a romantic getaway across the world.
▲Conservatory of Flowers
(Photo by Jenn Emerling)
Franchesca and Che, at Golden Gate Park.
The ornate architecture, hidden pathways, and a plethora of blooms make the Conservatory of Flowers one of the dreamiest locations in San Francisco. (Bonus points to Franchesca for the sheer, petal-like panels of her navy jumpsuit!)
▲Ocean Beach
(Photo by Guru Foto)
Alex and Willy, at Ocean Beach.
The sleepy, coastal vibes of Ocean Beach make for mystical memories at nearly at time of day. For the most magical light, go at sunrise or sunset.
▲Mt. Tamalpais
(Photo by Ted Chin)
Jen and Cory, at Mt. Tam.
There's undoubtedly something majestic about Mt. Tam. The cascading highlands overlooking the sea make the perfect backdrop for a wanderlust-y (or otherworldly) outdoor shoot. Bonus points for a photographer who is also a magician of a digital artist.
▲Mount Sutro
(Photo by Encarnacion Photography)
Leah and Paul, atop Mt. Sutro.
There's no doubt about it—San Franciscans love a good view of our city. Sutro Tower, the city's highest point atop Mt. Sutro, is an ideal lookout point to take captivating shots with panoramic views as expansive as your love. Plus, think of your glorious, windswept hair.
▲Oakland Redwoods
(Photo by Encarnacion Photography)
Khat and Paul, in the Oakland redwoods.
You don't have to go far to get a woodsy vibe. Oakland and Berkeley have abundant redwoods, perfect for sun-dappled photo opps. Redwood Regional, Joaquin Miller, and Tilden Regional parks are great spots for earthy shoots.
▲Palace of Fine Arts
(Photo by Gillian Walsworth)
Romance at the Palace of Fine Arts.
Originally created for the 1915 Panama-Pacific Exposition and fully reconstructed since, the Palace of Fine Arts remains one of the city's most photographed Beaux-Arts beauties, popular for both engagement and wedding-day photos.
▲Oakland Waterfront
(Photo by Encarnacion Photography)
Jane and AJ, at the Oakland waterfront.
Oakland's waterfront has it all—a glowing sunset, rocky coastline, and view of the Golden Gate Bridge in the distance. Best of all, you can bring your pup to Point Isabel.
▲Lover's Lane Trail
(Photo by Gillian Walsworth)
Traversing Lover's Lane.
The name speaks for itself. The Presidio's Lover's Lane is primo location for romantic photo shoots thanks to its winding path hugged on both sides by towering eucalyptus trees. The picturesque trail, which connects the Presidio Gate to the Main Post, makes for the perfect metaphor of a couple journeying together in life.
▲Baker Beach
(Photo by Gillian Walsworth)
Wading at Baker Beach.
You can't go wrong with foaming waves, rolled-up pants, and the Golden Gate Bridge on the horizon. Baker Beach is one of the quintessential photo destinations of San Francisco. Bring a picnic and make a day of it.
▲Your 'Hood
(Photo by Encarnacion Photography)
Kendall and Hameed, on the streets of San Francisco.
What more personal place to capture your romance than your very own neighborhood? Take your photog to your local haunts—where you hang, eat, and explore together.
▲(Photo by Weddings by Sunnyside)
The Wild Iris Retreat.
If you're down for a bit of a road trip, Philo's Wild Iris Retreat is the epitome of a magical. The family-run vineyard is teeming with landscaped gardens, winding cobblestone paths, fruit trees, redwoods, and a pool.
▲Need help conceiving your perfect engagement photo shoot? Get 10 tips from wedding photog Vivian Sachs.
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