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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, and all of Southern California (SoCal)

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 outside, beach, city hall, 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.

41 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

Based in Southern California, Brett Butterstein is a highly skilled wedding photojournalist with a background in photojournalism and extensive experience in newspaper photography. With his keen eye for detail and ability to capture raw emotions, he is the ideal choice for...

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 traveling wedding photographer known for capturing authentic and emotional moments. With a background in documenting significant life events, Loren's passion for photography truly blossomed after learning manual mode.

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

California wedding photographer Gina Clyne specializes in photojournalistic style imagery, 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 wedding photojournalist with 20 years of experience, a background in photojournalism, and a talent for capturing the unique emotion and joy of each wedding day. Based in California, he specializes in photographing beautiful moments along the coast.

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)
Studio portrait of wedding photographer Sierra Dawn

Sierra Dawn is a USA-based wedding photojournalist and portrait photographer with a passion for capturing beautiful moments. Influenced by her father's 20+ years in the profession, she brings a wealth of expertise and knowledge to her work.

Sierra Dawn

Los Angeles in California, US *Now booking California - Southern weddings.
5500 (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.
3000 (USD)
Lifestyle portrait of Brittany Bender, a San Diego wedding photographer - Southern California WPJA

Brittany Bender is a San Diego-based wedding photographer known for her talent in capturing candid and emotional moments. With a passion for storytelling, Brittany aims to truthfully and artistically portray the unique experiences of each person she photographs.

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)
Documentary wedding photography by Rebecca Aranda

Rebecca Aranda, a West Coast North America wedding photojournalist, merges storytelling skills from her background in theater, film, and publishing to capture the joy of each moment through her decades of experience.

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 Southern California wedding photographer specializing in Wedding Photography, Elopement, and Engagement sessions. He is passionate about capturing candid moments with an artistic touch. With a background in Management and Marketing, Attila is a well-...

Attila Iuhasz

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

Nikhol Esteras is a destination wedding photographer based in Oaxaca and California. With a background in psychology and holistic health, she combines her interests to capture authentic and unique wedding imagery. Nikhol has photographed over 100 weddings since 2014 and...

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 California-based photographer with a Master's in photojournalism from Ohio University, as well as awards from prestigious contests like the Pictures of the Year competition.

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 is the co-founder of SW Photo Studio and is a passionate wedding photographer. He has experienced many different cultures across the world. These unique experiences have shaped him as an open-minded person, integrating his creative photography with the lessons life...

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

Kimmi Cranes is a California and Nevada wedding photojournalist and portrait photographer with a Bachelor of Fine Art degree from UC Santa Cruz, specializing in elopements. With over 10 years of professional experience, she is skilled at capturing the essence and 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 skilled wedding photographer with over two decades of experience, known for his documentary approach and storytelling visual style. Originally from England, he honed his skills in the US, photographing local news, models, and actors.

Philip Thomas

San Antonio in Texas, US *Now booking California - Southern weddings.
4500 (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 skilled Northern California wedding photojournalist, specializing in elopements and artistic portraits. With a background in graphic design, his simple philosophy centers around capturing life as it unfolds, emphasizing meaningful moments and exquisite...

Tyler Vu

San Jose in California, US *Now booking California - Southern weddings.
4000 (USD)

In a journalistic style, Logan Westom is a visual storyteller who captures the most intimate moments of couples' special days, Taylor Swift concerts, and newspaper events throughout his decade-long career in professional photography from his base in Seattle.

Logan Westom

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

Douglas Despres is a photographer with a background in photojournalism and over 600 events photographed since 2002. Specializing in documentary-style shots with comfortable connections to family and guests, he brings his global photography experience to every shoot.

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 is an award-winning and published wedding photographer with over 17 years experience in Texas and California. His photo-journalistic style and professional demeanor have earned him praise from clients. He and his family currently reside in Dallas.

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)

In journalistic style, Dan Harris, an experienced newspaper photojournalist, captures the intimate moments of love and joy that unfold during weddings. With over 20 years of experience and an impressive portfolio, he skillfully documents each event, preserving the essence...

Dan Harris

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

Drawing from her experience in fine art framing, photojournalism, and acting, Kate Hagerty is a documentary wedding photographer who skillfully tells the story of couples on their wedding day.

Kate Hagerty

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

Jason Kaczorowski is an experienced destination wedding photographer with over 18 years in the field and over 650 weddings captured. He specializes in capturing powerful relationship moments and creating memories that will last a lifetime.

Jason Kaczorowski

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

Kristin Bednarz is a seasoned wedding photojournalist with expertise in capturing the essence of weddings through her storytelling approach. She has documented more than 250+ weddings worldwide.

Kristin Bednarz

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

Amber Depangher is a seasoned wedding photojournalist, expertly documenting love stories for over two decades. From high school hobby to thriving business, Amber and her husband's unique styles make for an unbeatable team.

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)
Lifestyle portrait of Evie Felts, a wedding and elopement photographer

Evie Felts transitioned from teaching Spanish to wedding photography, now capturing intimate moments worldwide for 5 years. Based in Mancos, Colorado, she enjoys outdoor activities and homesteading with her family.

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 Downtown Los Angeles, CA, the couple stand on the roof of their condo complex, illuminated by soft backlit, sunset lighting, capturing their love as they prepare to say "I do."
At the Art District in LA, the couple embraces under the harsh, orange and yellow backlit, sunset lighting as they display their love before their upcoming wedding.
During the engagement portrait session at Art District, LA, the couple stands in front of one of the district's cat murals while holding their small white dog together, capturing their fun and anticipation for their upcoming wedding.
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.

Frequently Asked Questions

Q: How can couples find reviews of California - Southern wedding photographers?
A: We call them Client Letters. At the WPJA, we decided more than 20 years ago to avoid incorporating those third-person testimonials and endorsements that are found all too often in advertisements. Instead, we elevated our listings with the use of Client Letters, which represent the actual words and feelings of the clients who booked those California - Southern wedding photographers for their own wedding.
Q: Can a wedding photojournalist create artistic portraits on my California - Southern wedding day?
A: While wedding photojournalists strive to capture candid moments on the wedding day, our photographers also are skilled artists who can compose powerful portraits. If you have a specific vision of what types of images you want from your wedding day, look at the top-ranked California - Southern wedding photographers who have earned Artistic Guild awards for portrait and detail images.
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.
WPJA Communiqué: Featured Wedding Photography Articles
While some people live for the hustle and bustle of a big wedding with extravagant décor and an impossibly long guest list, others find these kinds of weddings to be too much hoopla, preferring instead something simpler and quieter, allowing for more intimacy between them...Read more
Traditionally speaking, often times it is the couple’s families who help pay for their wedding. However, unfortunately that’s just not possible for everyone, especially these days when the cost of weddings can quickly and easily get out of control. Some couples find...Read more
We all know that the economy can go through some hard times, and be somewhat reminiscent of past recessions. However, as people cut back on non-essential little luxuries here and there, one constant remains: weddings. People don’t tend to just stop getting married due to a...Read more

RAVES, REVIEWS, AND California - Southern WEDDING PHOTOGRAPHER RECOMMENDATIONS

Couple celebrating wedding post-ceremony by the lake at Fallen Leaf Lake, South Lake Tahoe, CA

John & Claire

Photo by James Juarez

We've been distracted this weekend moving all of John's stuff into our new LES apartment but rest assured - we have been evenly splitting our time between moving and lovingly gazing at your photos. We love them! They're so beautiful and captured the vibe and energy so well. So exciting!

Whitney & Terry

Photo by Dennis Viera

Using you guys was one of the best decisions we made for our wedding. From our first conversation, we could tell you were friendly, easygoing people who just like to take great pictures and make your clients happy. You took the time getting to know us and our relationship so you could give us exactly what we wanted. On our wedding day you were flexible, fun, and extremely easy to work with; not that we ever had any doubts, but the pictures came out ABSOLUTELY PERFECT. We were thrilled with all the pictures...and happy to have two new friends. We love you and recommend you wholeheartedly!!!

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