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 desert, justice of the peace, small, 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

Annie Bang, a former journalist, and Associated Press reporter, documents real moments and emotions through documentary and photojournalistic photography. She is passionate about capturing fleeting moments to create timeless memories of our lives.

Annie Bang

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

USA-based wedding photojournalist and engagement portrait photographer, Shaun Baker, turned to photography after graduating college. With a background in video, he captured his first wedding in 2009, specializing in artistic wedding portraits.

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 wedding photojournalist and engagement portrait photographer, specializing in capturing authentic and emotional moments. With a background in documenting life events, Loren's passion for photography grew after mastering 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, a non-traditional and offbeat wedding photographer, specializes in natural, emotive, creative, and honest storytelling. With a background in architecture and a passion for photography, he has been capturing unique wedding stories for almost 7 years.

Darren Hendry

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

Thinh Phan, a wedding photojournalist and creative engagement portrait photographer, brings a flair for capturing couples' vibrant personalities in bold and colorful outdoor portraits. With a background in design and a passion for photography, Thinh skillfully crafts...

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 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

Brenda Bravo is a wedding photojournalist, engagement portrait photographer, and artistic wedding portrait photographer. With a degree in Visual Communication and a minor in Sociology, Brenda brings her unique perspective to capture the beauty and emotion of each moment...

Brenda Bravo

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

Dennis Mock is an accomplished photographer specializing in documentary wedding photography. With a strong background in sports and architectural photography, he has honed his skills in capturing genuine and captivating moments.

Dennis Mock

San Diego in California, US *Now booking California - Southern weddings.
450/hour (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 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

With a documentary approach to storytelling, Nikhol Esteras, a wedding photographer based in Oaxaca and California, captures authentic and unique moments, 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

With a Bachelor's degree in Studio Photography, Gretchen Troop excels as a wedding photojournalist. Her talent lies in capturing natural and candid moments, creating memories that last a lifetime.

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 has been passionate about art since he was a young boy. At age 15, he received his first camera and has been the designated photographer ever since. Chris became a professional photographer in 2007 and provides beautiful, story-telling photography of destination...

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 photographer based in Lake Tahoe. With a Bachelor of Fine Art from the University of California, Santa Cruz, she has been photographing weddings professionally for a decade.

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

Ilana Bar av is a dedicated wedding photographer whose passion for the craft began with her dad and oldest brother, both of whom are also photographers. Despite their initial skepticism, Barav chose to pursue a career in wedding photography and is now celebrating her sixth...

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.
4800 (USD)
Wedding photography and elopements by Ray Iavasile of Michigan

Ray Anthony Iavasile, a Michigan-based wedding photographer, is highly regarded for his journalistic style, capturing the essence of moments. Ranked as one of the Top 50 wedding photojournalists worldwide, he 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)
Northern California wedding photography by Drew Bird - Creative Storytelling

Drew Bird, a Bay Area wedding photographer, uses his years of experience to capture authentic, unscripted expressions of beauty, love, and connection in his photographs. With a focus on storytelling through images, Drew is skilled in portraying the emotions and unique...

Drew Bird

Oakland in California, US *Now booking California - Southern weddings.
3500 (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 is a passionate traveling wedding photographer, artist, and storyteller. As a mother of two adorable toddlers, she often shoots alongside her husband Jonathan to capture real moments and raw emotions. Her non-intrusive approach allows couples to be present in...

Gingi Freeman

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

Robert Walker, a highly acclaimed wedding photojournalist, boasts 17 years of experience in Texas and California. Known for his unobtrusive and journalistic style, he skillfully captures precious moments. Currently residing in Dallas with his family, Robert's...

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

Kate Hagerty: Talented wedding photographer with experience in photojournalism, fine art framing, and acting. Published work in WESA.com, The Pittsburgh Current, The Pittsburgh City Paper, and The Pittsburgh Post Gazette.

Kate Hagerty

Pittsburgh in Pennsylvania, US *Now booking California - Southern weddings.
3000 (USD)
Marla Manes, a PNW ADVENTURE ELOPEMENT PHOTOGRAPHER in Seattle WA

Seattle-based Marla Manes, skilled in wedding photojournalism and portraiture, integrates values and sustainability. Creates comfort for exceptional photos.

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

Chris Rusanowsky is a traveling documentary wedding photographer based in the US. With a passion for capturing truth and storytelling, Chris has been creating compelling images for clients for over fourteen years. He loves traveling, trying new foods, and spending time with...

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)
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 is a wedding photographer who has served for a decade as a military photojournalist, capturing major national disasters. His skill for capturing details and stories in an impactful way translates into awe-inspiring memorials of your wedding day.

Wes Shinn

Chesapeake in Virginia, US *Now booking California - Southern weddings.
3400 (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 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: 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.
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.
WPJA Communiqué: Featured Wedding Photography Articles
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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

RAVES, REVIEWS, AND California - Southern WEDDING PHOTOGRAPHER RECOMMENDATIONS

Christine & Bryan

Photo by Douglas Despres

"Doug these are amazing!! I can't even tell you how much I'm in love with them! You did such an incredible job and I cannot thank you enough! They're unreal!"

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!

Outdoor wedding ceremony image of the bride and groom at Stroudsmoor Country Inn, Stroudsburg, PA

Kylie & Christopher

Photo by William West

My husband and I are utterly grateful to Will for everything he has done to ensure the capturing of countless precious moments from our special day. From the start, Will was incredibly responsive, informative, patient, flexible, and present. He remained in active communication with us as we navigated the unknowns of the pandemic and was supportive of our difficult decision to postpone our event from 2020 to 2021, without any hesitation or additional requests. When our special day finally arrived in 2021, Will went above and beyond to ensure the capturing of absolutely beautiful and precious moments throughout our special day despite added unforeseen obstacles that arose. His commitment to quality and care has been unwavering, and having just received our wedding photos only confirms that, tenfold. We haven't stopped looking through our photos.. we can't! They are tender, charming, vibrant, authentic, touching, beautiful.. perfect for us. They capture the essence of our day so remarkably, bringing us straight back to each unforgettable moment. We were so impressed from the beginning when Will shared his incredibly reasonable prices with us and explained all that was included...a full day of photography from the early hours to late-night hours of our special day, an online gallery of hundreds of beautifully captured and edited photos with NO watermark, 20 prints of our choice, AND a canvas! When we began planning for our wedding, we looked into a variety of photographers, and Will stood out as the most reasonable by far, without any compromise in quality. We were confident in Will's talents, quality, and professionalism right away, but now that we've worked with him and have received our photo gallery, we can't emphasize enough just how grateful and blessed we feel. We can only hope you make the same decision that we made. We know you will be just as grateful if you do! :)