ASTRAY PHOTOGRAPHY

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Beach engagement photos under the Carlsbad Cliffs

Ryan + Ashley

Carlsbad Cliffs

We could not have asked for a better night wandering the coastline with Ryan and Ashley. Such a dream engagement session with the beach practically to ourselves. The Cliffs of Carlsbad are one of our favorite locations for San Diego engagement photos. If you are recently engaged or in the planning stages we would love to connect to plan your engagement photos.


If you are new to our work, welcome! Thank you for checking out our San Diego wedding blog and latest San Diego engagement photo session. We are a husband and wife team focusing on wedding photos and wedding videos throughout San Diego and greater Southern California market. From the beaches in San Diego to the vineyards of Temecula and everywhere in between, we love the unique venues California has to offer. For more of our latest Engagement photos and wedding videos please make sure to subscribe.



Beach engagement photos can be absolutely stunning and romantic, capturing the beauty of the natural surroundings and the love between the couple. Here are some tips to make the most out of your beach engagement photo session:

  1. Choose the Right Time: Consider scheduling your photo session during the golden hour, which occurs shortly after sunrise or before sunset. The soft, warm light during these times will add a magical touch to your photos.

  2. Select the Perfect Location: Research beaches in your area to find one with scenic views, interesting rock formations, or iconic landmarks that can serve as beautiful backdrops for your photos.

  3. Wardrobe Selection: Opt for outfits that complement each other and the beach environment. Flowy dresses, linen shirts, and light, neutral colors work well for beach photos. Avoid busy patterns or colors that clash with the surroundings.

  4. Accessorize: Consider bringing along props like a picnic basket, a blanket, or a bouquet of flowers to add visual interest to your photos.

  5. Footwear: Keep in mind that you'll likely be walking on sand, so choose footwear that is comfortable and easy to walk in. Barefoot or sandals are popular choices for beach engagement photos.

  6. Be Mindful of the Weather: Check the weather forecast beforehand and be prepared for any conditions. Bring along sunscreen, hats, and water to stay comfortable during the photo session.

  7. Relax and Have Fun: The most important thing is to relax and enjoy the moment with your partner. Let your love shine through in the photos by being yourselves and embracing the natural beauty of the beach.

  8. Work with a Professional Photographer: Consider hiring a professional photographer who has experience shooting beach engagements. They will know how to make the most of the natural light and surroundings to capture stunning photos that you'll cherish forever.

By following these tips and putting your trust in a skilled photographer, you can create beautiful and memorable beach engagement photos that reflect the love and joy you share as a couple.


Determining the "best" wedding photographer can be subjective and depends on various factors such as personal style preferences, budget, location, and specific needs. When choosing a wedding photographer, it's essential to review their portfolio, read client reviews, and, if possible, meet with them to ensure their style aligns with your vision for your special day. Additionally, consider factors such as pricing, availability, and rapport with the photographer, as these can also influence your decision. As each photographer specializes in different styles, your venue plays a huge role in the photos that are created, here are a few top wedding venues in San Diego we often work with.


San Diego offers a plethora of stunning wedding venues, each with its own unique charm and ambiance. Here are some of the best wedding venues in San Diego:

  1. Hotel del Coronado: This historic beachfront hotel offers picturesque views of the Pacific Ocean and iconic architecture, making it a popular choice for weddings.

  2. Balboa Park: With its lush gardens, elegant architecture, and various venues to choose from, Balboa Park provides a romantic backdrop for weddings.

  3. The Prado at Balboa Park: Located within Balboa Park, The Prado offers a charming setting with Spanish-inspired architecture and beautiful courtyards.

  4. Scripps Seaside Forum: Situated near La Jolla Shores Beach, this modern venue features floor-to-ceiling windows overlooking the ocean, perfect for a coastal wedding.

  5. Luce Loft: This trendy urban venue in downtown San Diego offers a blank canvas for couples to customize their wedding and create a unique atmosphere.

  6. The Thursday Club: Nestled in Point Loma, this historic venue boasts beautiful gardens, a charming clubhouse, and panoramic views of the ocean.

  7. Darlington House: This Mediterranean-style estate in La Jolla offers elegant indoor and outdoor spaces, including a lush courtyard and picturesque garden.

  8. Tom Ham's Lighthouse: Perched on Harbor Island, this waterfront venue offers stunning views of the San Diego skyline and harbor, creating a memorable backdrop for weddings.

  9. The US Grant: Located in downtown San Diego, this luxurious hotel features stunning architecture, opulent ballrooms, and exceptional service, perfect for a lavish wedding celebration.

  10. The Ultimate Skybox: Situated in East Village overlooking Petco Park, this modern venue offers panoramic views of downtown San Diego and the ballpark, providing a unique setting for weddings.

These are just a few of the many incredible wedding venues San Diego has to offer. Depending on your preferences and budget, there are plenty of options to ensure your special day is unforgettable. It's advisable to contact each venue directly for availability, pricing, and to schedule a tour to see which one best suits your vision for your wedding day.