California - Southern Wedding Photographers

California - Southern Wedding Photographers

Our California - Southern photographers also provide documentary-style coverage in: Los Angeles, San Diego, Long Beach, Anaheim, Santa Ana, Fullerton, Pasadena, Chula Vista, Encinitas, San Bernardino, Orange County, Irvine, Riverside, Bakersfield, Simi Valley, Malibu, Ventura

California - Southern Wedding Photography, Engagement Photo Sessions + Elopements

Intimate Wedding Photography in California - Southern - Capturing the Joy of Small Celebrations - Discover the best California - Southern photographers specializing in intimate marriages. Couples are embracing the trend of smaller, more meaningful celebrations. Let our talented photographers capture the joy and intimacy of your wedding day.

By planning a simple California - Southern elopement, couples are able to stay present in the moment and fully absorb the impact of their wedding day. Given the fact that many couples feel more natural and at ease in intimate settings, it's no surprise that some of the most breathtaking wedding images come from elopements.

The WPJA has an abundance of top-ranked, California - Southern documentary wedding photographers available right now who understand that some weddings and elopements can’t wait. Find yours today!

Recent WPJA WedElope Story Awards

California - Southern Photographers for Large or Small Weddings

Shooting an elopement or small California - Southern wedding event is a wedding photojournalist’s dream: a fairly open schedule with lots of breathing space for creativity – it’s just the photographer, the couple, the officiant, and perhaps a few select companions.

United States WPJA members are ready to document any courthouse, adventure, beach, or elopement wedding, even if it is a Monday-Thursday ceremony. Search for the “Can Shoot Weddings on Short Notice!” message on the listings below.

42 California - Southern Wedding Photographers...

California wedding and elopement photographer Annie Bang

As a wedding photojournalist and creative engagement portrait photographer in California, Annie Bang brings a background as a former journalist and Associated Press reporter. With a focus on documenting real moments and emotions, she uses documentary and photojournalistic...

Annie Bang

Los Angeles in California, US *Now booking California - Southern weddings.
2500 (USD)
Shaun Baker - Wedding Photographer and Couple Portrait Professional

USA-based Shaun Baker is a wedding photojournalist, engagement portrait photographer, and artistic wedding portrait photographer. He transitioned from video to photography after college and has been capturing weddings since 2009.

Shaun Baker

San Diego in California, US *Now booking California - Southern weddings.
2900 (USD)
California wedding photography by Brett Butterstein

Southern California-based wedding photojournalist Brett Butterstein combines his background in photojournalism and five years of newspaper photography experience to expertly capture the genuine beauty and emotion of weddings.

Brett Butterstein

Encinitas in California, US *Now booking California - Southern weddings.
3500 (USD)
Portrait of Loren Haar, Engagement, Elopement and Wedding Photographer

Loren Haar is a skilled and well-traveled wedding photojournalist, engagement portrait photographer, and artistic wedding portrait photographer. With a background in documenting significant life events and a passion for photography that flourished through learning manual...

Loren Haar

Ventura in California, US *Now booking California - Southern weddings.
2200 (USD)
Engagement Photo Shoots and wedding photography by Darren Hendry

Darren Hendry, an architecture-trained photographer, has spent 7 years capturing unique wedding stories through his natural, emotive, and creative style. Specializing in non-traditional and offbeat weddings, he combines his passion for photography and storytelling to create...

Darren Hendry

Pasadena in California, US *Now booking California - Southern weddings.
2500 (USD)
Wedding Photography by Thinh Phan

Thinh Phan, a wedding photojournalist and engagement portrait photographer, specializes in capturing couples' fun-loving personalities in bold outdoor portraits. With a background in design and a passion for vibrant colors, Thinh skillfully crafts images that showcase...

Thinh Phan

in California, US *Now booking California - Southern weddings.
2500 (USD)
California Documentary Wedding and Elopement Photography by Gina Clyne

Gina Clyne, a California wedding photographer, specializes in capturing formal portraits that reflect couples' personalities and documenting subtle and profound moments of the day with her gentle eye.

Gina Clyne

Los Angeles in California, US *Now booking California - Southern weddings.
2100 (USD)
California wedding photography by Jonathan Young

Jonathan Young is a California coast wedding photographer, with 20 years of experience, a photojournalist background, and an eye for detail. He captures the joy and emotion of each unique wedding day.

Jonathan Young

Palos Verdes Estates in California, US *Now booking California - Southern weddings.
5500 (USD)
Engagement couple portraits and elopement photography by Brenda Bravo - Bravo Image

Award-winning traveling wedding photographer Brenda Bravo documents social work with a degree in Visual Communication & minor in Sociology from University. She has over 10 years of photography experience & attended photojournalism workshops around the world.

Brenda Bravo

Pasadena in California, US *Now booking California - Southern weddings.
2000 (USD)
Destination weddings and elopement photography by Dennis Mock

Dennis Mock, a talented documentary wedding photographer, brings his background in sports and architectural photography to create captivating compositions. Recognized and awarded by professional photography associations, he has also received prestigious honors from Kodak...

Dennis Mock

San Diego in California, US *Now booking California - Southern weddings.
450/hour (USD)
Lifestyle portrait of Brittany Bender, a San Diego wedding photographer - Southern California WPJA

San Diego wedding photojournalist, Brittany Bender, excels at capturing candid and emotional moments. With a talent for storytelling, she artistically portrays the unique experiences of her subjects.

Brittany Bender

San Diego in California, US *Now booking California - Southern weddings.
3000 (USD)
Lifestyle Portrait of Wedding and Elopement Photographer James Juarez

James Juarez is a Mexican-American wedding photojournalist with a degree in Art History from UCLA. He has 8 years of experience documenting punk bands and in the fashion industry. Based in the Western USA.

James Juarez

Los Angeles in California, US *Now booking California - Southern weddings.
2450 (USD)
Studio portrait of wedding photographer Sierra Dawn

Sierra Dawn is an experienced wedding photojournalist and creative engagement portrait photographer based in the USA. With a background influenced by her father's 20+ years in the field, she possesses a wealth of passion and expertise in capturing beautiful moments.

Sierra Dawn

Los Angeles in California, US *Now booking California - Southern weddings.
5500 (USD)
Documentary wedding photography by Rebecca Aranda

Rebecca Aranda is a West Coast North American wedding photographer with decades of experience in storytelling. She draws on her background in theater, film, and publishing to capture the joy of each moment.

Rebecca Aranda

Los Angeles in California, US *Now booking California - Southern weddings.
5000 (USD)
Southern California wedding photography and engagement portraits by Attila Iuhasz

Attila Iuhasz is a S. CA wedding photojournalist and engagement portrait photographer. He specializes in capturing candid moments with an artistic touch. With a background in Management and Marketing, Attila is a well-rounded professional, continuously improving his skills.

Attila Iuhasz

Los Angeles in California, US *Now booking California - Southern weddings.
2400 (USD)
Weddings, engagement portraits and elopement photography by Nikhol Esteras

Using a journalistic style, Nikhol Esteras, a visual storyteller, captures the authentic and unique moments of destination weddings in Oaxaca and California, combining her background in psychology and holistic health.

Nikhol Esteras

Oaxaca de Juárez in Oaxaca, MX *Now booking California - Southern weddings.
3000 (USD)
Gretchen Troop Photography Studio for Weddings, Elopements and Portraits

Gretchen Troop is a documentary wedding photographer with a Bachelor's degree in Studio Photography. She has a passion for capturing weddings in beautiful locations, particularly in the Rocky Mountain National Park. Gretchen is known for her ability to make clients...

Gretchen Troop

Boulder in Colorado, US *Now booking California - Southern weddings.
3000 (USD)
California Couple Portrait Sessions and Wedding Photography by Stephanie Secrest

Stephanie Secrest is a wedding and engagement portrait photographer based in Central Coast CA. With a Master's in photojournalism, she has garnered recognition from renowned competitions such as Pictures of the Year.

Stephanie Secrest

Arroyo Grande in California, US *Now booking California - Southern weddings.
3300 (USD)
Wedding and elopement photography by Will Tee - SW Wedding Photo Studio

Will Tee, co-founder of SW Photo Studio, is an experienced wedding photographer who excels at capturing real moments. His love for travel and exposure to different cultures has made him open-minded and allows him to integrate unique perspectives into his creative...

Will Tee

Taipei City, TW *Now booking California - Southern weddings.
2000 (USD)
Weddings by Chris Shum, Life Photographer

Chris Shum is a wedding, engagement, lifestyle, and family photographer with a lifelong passion for art. With his artistic eye and unobstructive approach, Chris captures the beauty and joy of weddings, creating elegant, storytelling photographs that couples can treasure...

Chris Shum

Sunnyvale in California, US *Now booking California - Southern weddings.
4500 (USD)
Adventure wedding and elopement photography by Kimmi Cranes

Based in Lake Tahoe, California and Nevada, Kimmi Cranes is a wedding photojournalist and portrait photographer, specializing in elopements. With a decade of professional experience and a Bachelor of Fine Arts degree from UC Santa Cruz, she expertly captures the emotions...

Kimmi Cranes

South Lake Tahoe in California, US *Now booking California - Southern weddings.
2000 (USD)
Madison wedding and elopement photography by Ilana Bar-av of Wisconsin

In a journalistic style, Ilana Bar av is a visual storyteller who captures the beautiful moments of weddings. Inspired by her father and brother, also photographers, Barav overcame skepticism to pursue her passion and celebrates six successful years in the business.

Ilana Bar av

Madison in Wisconsin, US *Now booking California - Southern weddings.
4800 (USD)

Philip Thomas is a wedding photojournalist with over two decades of experience, known for his journalistic style and for capturing moments on a couple's big day. With a background in shooting local news, models, and actors, Philip's expertise shines through in his...

Philip Thomas

San Antonio in Texas, US *Now booking California - Southern weddings.
4800 (USD)
Wedding photography and elopements by Ray Iavasile of Michigan

Ray Anthony Iavasile, a wedding photojournalist based in Michigan, is celebrated for his journalistic style and ability to capture authentic moments. He is recognized as one of the Top 50 wedding photojournalists worldwide and is the go-to choice for couples in Michigan.

Ray Iavasile

Birmingham in Michigan, US *Now booking California - Southern weddings.
3000 (USD)
CA Engagemen, Wedding and Elopement Photography by Tyler Vu

Tyler Vu is a Northern California-based wedding photojournalist and portrait photographer with a background in graphic design. With his keen eye for composition and dedication to capturing meaningful moments, Tyler thrives on immortalizing the details and emotions that make...

Tyler Vu

San Jose in California, US *Now booking California - Southern weddings.
4000 (USD)
Northern California wedding photography by Drew Bird - Creative Storytelling

Drew Bird, a skilled wedding photographer with years of experience, specializes in capturing authentic and unscripted beauty, love, and connection through photographs. Based in the San Francisco Bay Area, he excels in telling stories through his lens.

Drew Bird

Oakland in California, US *Now booking California - Southern weddings.
3500 (USD)

Logan Westom is a documentary wedding photographer based in Seattle. With a career in professional photography spanning over a decade, Westom has shot for newspapers, couples’ special days, and Taylor Swift concerts...

Logan Westom

Bremerton in Washington, US *Now booking California - Southern weddings.
4000 (USD)

Douglas Despres is a wedding photographer who has photographed over 600 events since 2002. With a background in photojournalism and experience shooting worldwide, Doug specializes in documentary-style shots with an emphasis on comfortable connections with family and guests.

Douglas Despres

Alameda in California, US *Now booking California - Southern weddings.
750/hour (USD)

Dennis Viera is an award-winning international wedding photographer. With a nearly decade-long background in photojournalism, Dennis's photography career began in high school. His passion for documenting life has taken him and his family around the world.

Dennis Viera

Rohnert Park in California, US *Now booking California - Southern weddings.
5000 (USD)

Gingi Freeman, a passionate traveling wedding photojournalist based in Visalia, CA, specializes in non-intrusive, documentary-style weddings. With a background in art and storytelling, she captures real moments and raw emotions in a way that allows couples to be fully...

Gingi Freeman

Visalia in California, US *Now booking California - Southern weddings.
1400 (USD)

Robert Walker, an accomplished wedding photographer residing in Dallas, is recognized for his documentary approach and storytelling skills. With over 17 years of experience in Texas and California, his visual work showcases the narratives behind each couple's wedding...

Robert Walker

Dallas in Texas, US *Now booking California - Southern weddings.
2400 (USD)
A black and white portrait of William West - A Documentary Wedding Photographer

In 2006, William embarked on his journey as a wedding photojournalist, adopting a journalistic style to capture beautiful and authentic moments. With an unobtrusive approach, he skillfully documents the intimate relationships and stories that unfold on a couple's...

William West

in New Jersey, US *Now booking California - Southern weddings.
3850 (USD)

Dan Harris is a US based wedding photographer with over 20 years experience working in newspapers. His lifelong affinity for photography was born when he was 8, learning about his mother's Kodak Brownie II camera. He has won several prestigious awards worldwide and has...

Dan Harris

Jacksonville in Florida, US *Now booking California - Southern weddings.
400/hour (USD)
Wedding and Elopement Photography by Kate Hagerty

With a diverse background in photojournalism, acting, and fine art framing, Kate Hagerty captures the essence of weddings as a skilled wedding photojournalist.

Kate Hagerty

Pittsburgh in Pennsylvania, US *Now booking California - Southern weddings.
3000 (USD)
Jason Kaczorowski, Destination Wedding Photography - USA

With a wealth of expertise as a wedding photojournalist, Jason Kaczorowski has spent over 18 years honing his skills, documenting over 650 weddings. His ability to immortalize meaningful moments ensures cherished memories for years to come.

Jason Kaczorowski

Chicago in Illinois, US *Now booking California - Southern weddings.
3900 (USD)
Texas wedding and elopement photography by Kristin Bednarz

Kristin Bednarz is an experienced storyteller wedding photographer skilled in capturing special moments of weddings everywhere. She has photographed over 250+ weddings...

Kristin Bednarz

Slaton in Texas, US *Now booking California - Southern weddings.
4500 (USD)
Portrait of Amber Depangher of Sightglass Photography Studio

Amber Depangher is an experienced wedding photographer with over 20 years of capturing weddings. She started her photography journey in high school and decided to make it her career after college, taking the risk of starting her own business. Amber is fortunate to work with...

Amber Depangher

Portland in Oregon, US *Now booking California - Southern weddings.
500/hour (USD)
Studio portrait of Wes Shinn - owner / wedding and elopement photography studio

Wes Shinn, a documentary wedding photographer with a decade of experience as a military photojournalist, beautifully documents every detail and narrative of your wedding, creating powerful and cherished memories.

Wes Shinn

Chesapeake in Virginia, US *Now booking California - Southern weddings.
3400 (USD)
Marla Manes, a PNW ADVENTURE ELOPEMENT PHOTOGRAPHER in Seattle WA

Seattle-based Marla Manes, a skilled wedding photographer, specializes in wedding photojournalism and portraiture. Advocate for values and environmental sustainability, creating a comfortable space for exceptional photos. Proud dog person, obsessed with her black cat...

Marla Manes

Seattle in Washington, US *Now booking California - Southern weddings.
5500 (USD)
Chris Rusanowsky self portrait of a wedding photographer in black and white

With over fourteen years of experience, Chris Rusanowsky is a highly skilled wedding photojournalist. His photographs capture the raw emotions and tell the story of each client's special day, creating memories that last a lifetime.

Chris Rusanowsky

Northlake in Texas, US *Now booking California - Southern weddings.
2500 (USD)
Portrait of Katharine Green from Katie Corinne Wedding Photography Studio

Katharine Green is a skilled Colorado documentary wedding photographer with over 10 years of experience. She and her associate, Jamie, have a passion for capturing the happiest moments in life, specializing in wedding, engagement, and proposal photography.

Katharine Green

Monument in Colorado, US *Now booking California - Southern weddings.
3000 (USD)
Lifestyle portrait of Evie Felts, a wedding and elopement photographer

Evie Felts is a former high school Spanish teacher turned photographer for 5 years. She enjoys connecting with people worldwide, capturing intimate moments. Evie resides in southwest Colorado, balancing her photography with caring for her kids and exploring the mountains.

Evie Felts

Mancos in Colorado, US *Now booking California - Southern weddings.
3000 (USD)

Map of Wedding Photojournalists Serving California - Southern Couples

California - Southern Wedding, Elopement and Engagement Images by WPJA Photographers

Below are some California - Southern wedding photography samples from the world’s best wedding photographers of the WPJA. Some of these California - Southern marriage pictures might be artistic portraits, details, or documentary-style images that have come from getting ready sessions, wedding ceremonies, reception venues, or California - Southern engagement portrait sessions with couples.

At a private home in Ventura, California, a groomsman stands in awe, observing the table adorned with an array of tools and products as the bride indulges in the meticulous process of getting her hair and makeup done.
At a private home in Ventura, California, a moment unfolds as the mother and bride collaborate on final touches during the getting ready process. Reflected in multiple mirrors, their bond is echoed in the shared reflection.
A beautiful bride tosses rose petals as part of an Indian wedding tradition, captured in a candid moment at Mount Palomar Winery in Temecula, CA.
Emotional moment captured at Malibou Lake Lodge in Agoura Hills, CA, as the parents of the bride and groom wipe away tears during the outdoor wedding ceremony.
In a serene moment at Lake Oak Meadows Weddings and Events in Temecula, CA, the newlyweds are caught wiping away tears of joy right after saying "I do" outdoors.
Creative couple portrait by a Malibu wedding photographer at El Matador Beach in CA, the couple stands holding hands in nature with balloons.
Engagement portrait of a couple under the Santa Monica Pier, CA, captured by a SoCal wedding photographer - a fine art portrayal of a low sun.
Engagement portrait captured by a Southern California wedding photographer at Santa Monica Pier as the couple enjoys a roller coaster ride in the afternoon sunlight.
Creative portrait of a couple walking and holding hands with cotton candy at Santa Monica Pier by a Santa Monica wedding photographer.
Engagement portrait by a LA wedding photographer, The Grove, Los Angeles, CA - The couple plays amidst whimsical candy-themed decor in a playful portrait session.
A groom is carried to the bride during their baraat, a celebratory wedding procession at Malibu Solstice in Malibu, California.
Newlyweds enjoying hor dourves at The Maxwell House in Pasadena, California after their romantic wedding ceremony in Southern California.

Frequently Asked Questions

Q: How can couples find California - Southern photographers for pre-wedding engagement portraits?
A: The WPJA issues Diamond Awards for California - Southern wedding photographers to showcase their best engagement photography work. These awards are given to photographers who prove that they have an ability to be creative, artistic, and intuitive while working on-location with couples who are newly engaged.
Q: Who are the best California - Southern wedding photographers for small elopements?
A: The WPJA is proud to have some of the top California - Southern documentary wedding photographers for elopements. Our members are able to submit WedElope Stories that take you step-by-step, via a 9 image picture story, through the unique and moving elopements that take place around the world.
Q: Where can I find a photographer for a short-notice, small California - Southern wedding?
A: There are many WPJA photographers who are able to help you out at a moment's notice. We understand that sometimes love happens and there's simply no time to lose. We can ensure that you can get married as quickly as possible — and have incredible photographs to remember your California - Southern wedding day by.
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RAVES, REVIEWS, AND California - Southern WEDDING PHOTOGRAPHER RECOMMENDATIONS

Sarah + Stephen

Photo by Drew Bird

Hey Drew - We went through all the pics last night and I just wanted to tell you again how awesome they are! You really captured some amazing moments and we're forever grateful! I was 3/4 through them and crying lol. It's as if we were replaying a story of the day. SO AMAZING! THANK YOU!!! We've shared the link with some of our guests and they are all raving about them as well! A thousand thanks, Sarah and Stephen

Amanda & David

Photo by William West

You were very responsive and flexible. Your eye and style are fantastic and you are very calm and collected. Since the day we booked over the phone long distance, you made us feel very confident and relaxed in choosing your service. We saw preview photos the very next day and we LOVE them. Your value is excellent and I highly recommend you to anyone. We can't wait to see the rest of the photos!

Christy & Stuart

Photo by Gina Clyne

We wanted to drop a quick note and tell you how awesome you are. You got in the spirit and came prepared, and brought so much happiness from behind the camera to whoever was in front of it. We're so grateful to have had you as part of our day, and can't wait to recommend you to everyone we know. (And everyone we don't -- so please let us know any and all sites where we can leave you reviews!) Much love, Christy + Stuart