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Santa Cruz, CA

Santa Cruz Wedding, Engagement, Portrait, and Event Photographer

Santa Cruz, California blends coastal beauty, a laid-back surf culture, redwood forests, and vibrant downtown energy. From cliffside vows to forest engagements and lively boardwalk portraits, this beach town offers endless backdrops for unforgettable photography.

Services Offered in Santa Cruz

We photograph beachfront weddings, coastal elopements, surprise proposals, destination engagement weekends, editorial portraits, personal branding, and corporate events across Santa Cruz and the surrounding coast.

Weddings & elopements (beaches, redwoods, private venues)
Engagements & surprise proposals
Destination engagement weekends
Portraits & personal branding
Corporate events & headshots
Family & milestone sessions

Why Santa Cruz

Santa Cruz offers a rare combination of coastal cliffs, sandy beaches, towering redwoods, and a vibrant cultural scene. The iconic Boardwalk, scenic West Cliff Drive, and nearby state parks make it a diverse and photogenic destination year-round.

Working with Us

We tailor each session to your style—whether that’s toes-in-the-sand casual or black-tie elegance under the redwoods. We handle timing, location planning, and styling tips so your session feels relaxed and genuine. Hybrid coverage (digital + analog film) is available when it suits the setting.

Weddings in Santa Cruz

Beachfront vows at Seascape, redwood ceremonies at Roaring Camp, and intimate garden receptions—we’ve photographed them all. Santa Cruz venues offer everything from bohemian to elegant, with the ocean or forest as your backdrop.

Engagements & Proposals

We help plan surprise proposals with the perfect light, location, and timing. Engagement sessions might include a coastal walk along West Cliff, a redwood trail in Henry Cowell, or a sunset picnic on the sand.

Destination Engagements

Turn your session into a weekend getaway. We’ll design a route that captures the best of Santa Cruz—from sunrise on the beach to golden hour in the forest, with time for a wine tasting or downtown stroll in between.

Portraits & Branding

Modern portraits for individuals, creatives, and teams. We shoot on location at the beach, in the forest, or in urban backdrops downtown—delivering images that work across web, print, and social media.

Corporate & Events

We photograph retreats, conferences, and incentive trips at Santa Cruz hotels, wineries, and coastal venues. Services can include professional headshot stations, event coverage, and fast-turnaround image delivery.

What Sets Us Apart

Local knowledge. We know the best times and spots to avoid crowds while capturing iconic views.
Hybrid coverage. A mix of digital and analog film for depth, color, and texture.
Yearly session gift. Every client receives a complimentary photography session each year as long as we’re in business.
Natural editing. True-to-life colors and timeless skin tones.

Best Time & Locations

Light: Coastal sunsets and early mornings are magic; fog can add a dreamy softness in summer.

Favorite looks: West Cliff Drive, Natural Bridges, Wilder Ranch trails, Henry Cowell redwoods, and Capitola’s colorful village.

Where to Stay

A few guest favorites:

Luxury

Dream Inn Santa Cruz
Chaminade Resort & Spa
Seascape Beach Resort

Mid-Range

Hotel Paradox, Autograph Collection
Beach Street Inn and Suites
Fairfield Inn & Suites Santa Cruz

Affordable

Ocean Pacific Lodge
Motel Santa Cruz
Quality Inn Santa Cruz

FAQ

Do you photograph both beach and forest sessions? Yes—Santa Cruz is perfect for combining both in one shoot.

What should we wear? Neutral tones with layers work beautifully in both beach and forest settings; we’ll send location-specific suggestions.

Do you work outside Santa Cruz? Absolutely—nearby Big Sur, Monterey, and Half Moon Bay are also favorites.

Get in Touch

Planning a wedding, proposal, or portrait session in Santa Cruz? Contact us to get started.

Facts About Santa Cruz

Location: Northern Monterey Bay, California coast
Vibe: Surf culture meets artsy coastal living
Signature Experiences: Santa Cruz Beach Boardwalk, West Cliff Drive, Natural Bridges
Nearby: Capitola, Aptos, Big Sur, Monterey
Climate: Mild year-round, with summer fog and sunny autumns