These tried and tested outdoor spaces are my favorite go-to locations for engagement shoots near Los Angeles. They are perfect for couples who don’t mind a little hiking or getting a little dirty, who value an experience beyond a photoshoot, and who love being outside.

In general, it’s recommended to plan a shoot for a weekday to ensure fewer crowds. Some locations require a travel fee.

I suggest picking a spot or vibe that is meaningful to your relationship. Is there a place you’ve been meaning to explore as a couple? Do you go to the beach together on the weekends? Do you like camping? Here are some spots to get you brainstorming.

VASQUEZ ROCKS

When Joshua Tree is just too far, Vasquez Rocks is my go-to desert location. Just 45 miles outside of DTLA, this natural area features striking rock formations. (It used to be where they filmed the old school Star Trek!) The park isn’t large and has plenty of parking and trails, making it perfect for a session.

Bigger shoots like editorial campaigns require a permit for shooting, but since we’ll have a small footprint, couple sessions are typically fine. We may run into 1-2 other shoots happening (usually editorial or another engagement session), but there’s plenty of room in the park. If you want to climb the rock formations, I recommend wearing shoes with some traction.

Los Angeles Engagement Wedding Photographer May Iosotaluno Photography

EL MATADOR STATE BEACH, MALIBU

This is one of the most popular beaches to shoot in Los Angeles, and for a good reason. With stunning natural rock formations, this state beach in Malibu feels like a coastal dream far removed from city life. Parking is $8 for a day pass; there are porta-potties . Because it is a very popular location, expect crowds and other shoots happening, particularly in the warmer months. I recommend that if you are nervous around crowds, consider a sunrise session for more privacy. Couples love being able to run into the water — we’ll also want to pay attention to the tide schedule since a high tide can make the beach un-walkable.

El Matador Beach Malibu Los Angeles Engagement Wedding Photographer May Iosotaluno Photography

ANGELES NATIONAL FOREST

For all my forest lovers out there, I recommend Angeles National Forest. About 20 miles outside DTLA, it’s a hidden gem right outside the big city. My favorite part is a small forest grove that is always empty and always has the perfect lighting condition for shooting. There are no bathrooms easily accessible in the park so plan ahead. Check the weather conditions - especially during the winter, there can be snow and road closures.

DTLA ARTS DISTRICT

The only non-nature location on this list, Downtown Los Angeles is for all my city folks. I call DTLA home. I know it well. I prefer to shoot in the Arts District - there’s no shortage of interesting wall textures, murals, and cute cafes to explore. 4th Street Bridge’s architecture is romantic and awesome. If you want a view of DTLA, there are many rooftops to make that happen (some may require a fee or a sunrise shoot instead). If there’s a bar, cafe, or dessert spot you frequent, we should totally make a pit stop and get some good candids of your time together!

Downtown LA DTLA Los Angeles Engagement Wedding Photographer May Iosotaluno Photography

JOSHUA TREE NATIONAL PARK

Two years ago, my best friend gifted me a National Parks Pass for my birthday. It may be the best present that keeps on giving. I visit Joshua Tree at least 5 times a year for shoots. Every time I go, I discover something new.

Each area of the park is unique. Do you want big rock formations? We’ll head near Jumbo Rocks. Do you actually prefer an area of the park with less trees? Let’s check out Indian Cove campground. Do you like fuzzy cute little cacti? Cholla Garden it is. The majority of my couples like to rent an airbnb in Joshua Tree and then we can split up our session time - half at the airbnb and then half at the park. Here is a session where we did just that!

Joshua Tree Engagement Photographer May Iosotaluno Photography

PALM SPRINGS

There are 2 distinct natural areas that I love shooting in Palm Springs. One is an open desert plain off the 10 freeway, which feels very remote and does not look like California at all. Click here to see a full session from this stunning location.

The other location I adore is the area in front of the windmills. Iconic Palm Springs. I love shooting here because the contrast between the windmills, the mountains, and the desert is just so striking and just shouts California vibes.

(And o, don’t forget to pick up a date shake from Hadley’s. Yum.)

IMPERIAL SAND DUNES

Also known as Glamis or Algodones Dunes, this might be my favorite location to shoot in California. I am all about a unique experience and this spot checks all the boxes. It’s expansive, peacefully quiet, and just breathtaking. We do want to pay attention to the weather and the wind. It can easily get over 110F+ and if it’s too windy, it’s unsafe to shoot there.

The sand dunes are 3.5 hours away from Los Angeles. The effort is worth it — I highly recommend making a mini-road trip adventure out of our session, and stopping in Palm Springs overnight. Staycation at the Ace Hotel anyone?

Interested in seeing what the full day would look like? You can check out full adventure session here.