Newport Beach Engagement Photos With Drew & Randi
About 6 months ago I was driving up north for an engagement session at Victoria Beach in Laguna so I called my friend who lives in the area and asked if he wanted to go out for pizza + beers after my photoshoot. He had to pass because he was actually en route to Los Angeles for an Empire of the Sun show, but said he had a spare ticket if I wanted to roll out after my engagement session. I said, “fuck yeah” and after the engagement shoot partied all night in Los Angeles. Now, you might be asking yourself what the hell any of that has to do with this blog post about Newport Beach engagement photos. Well, the answer is simple: it was in Los Angeles that I first met Randi (the bride-to-be).
I met Randi in Los Angeles, and she was telling me about her upcoming wedding in Temecula—a spot I shoot at all the time. Turns out she’s getting married at Galway Downs Equestrian Park, a venue I had just photographed. After chatting about dates, we discovered that the only day I had available in October was… her wedding day. Boom!
With that settled, we locked in her engagement session with Drew and, of course, the wedding later this year in Temecula.
But enough from me—you’ve probably heard enough nonsense. Check out some of their engagement photos in Newport Beach and see the magic for yourself!
Newport Beach Engagement Photo Locations
Orange County engagement locations in Santa Ana, Costa Mesa, San Juan Capistrano, Corona Del Mar, Huntington Beach, and the iconic downtown Laguna Beach are all great, but as an engagement photographer, there is no spot better for couple photos than Newport Beach! If you are trying to find the best locations for wedding and engagement photography, here are some of this Newport Beach photographers’ favorite spots!
- Balboa Ferris Wheel (Balboa Island)
- Newport Pier
- Crystal Cove State Park
- The Points (Lookout Point)
- Big Corona Beach
- The Castaways Park
- Anywhere The Drinks Are Cold & You Feel Comfortable
Related Content: Engagement Photos At Jeffrey Open Space Trail
Drew & Randi’s Newport Beach, CA Engagement Session
After sharing a bit about how Randi and I met, let’s dive into the engagement session itself! We kicked things off at one of my favorite spots: a bar. There’s something about a casual drink that eases everyone into the day and sets the vibe just right. After a couple of cold ones, we headed out around Newport Beach for some shots.
At one point, a security guard stopped us and asked if I had a permit to shoot there. I may have exaggerated a tiny bit, claiming to be an “international wedding photographer who shot Brad Pitt’s first wedding to that actress from Friends.” It worked—it gave us just enough time to keep rolling without missing a beat.
Once that little hiccup passed, we moved the session to the beach, where the light, the waves, and the laughs made for an unforgettable engagement shoot. It was fun, relaxed, and full of the kind of candid moments that make for a perfect start to their wedding story.
Related Content: Orange County Videography
What Should I Wear For Engagement Photos At Newport Beach?
As a heterosexual man, I should probably never be giving fashion advice. Ever. But since you asked… here are some outfit styles previous engaged couples rocked for Newport Beach sessions that came out amazing on camera:
- Flowing maxi dresses (for her) – These look incredible when twirling in the wind or walking along the shoreline. Movement adds drama and makes photos feel effortless.
- Bold colors – Reds, blues, or yellows pop beautifully against the sand and ocean, helping you stand out without being over the top.
- Light, neutral layers (for him) – Linen shirts, light chinos, or casual blazers look relaxed yet polished. They pair well with beachy tones and keep the vibe casual but sharp.
- Casual chic – A simple button-up with rolled sleeves and dark jeans strikes the perfect balance between comfort and style, making your partner shine while keeping you camera-ready.
- Seasonal accessories – Hats, scarves, or light jackets can add visual interest and help break up the look for more dynamic shots.
At the end of the day, what really matters is your attitude. Pick outfits that make you feel good, reflect your personal style, and let your personalities shine. Comfort equals confidence, and confidence equals killer photos.
After rocking some blue hour shots at Newport Beach, we made our way to Whole Foods (yes, really) for a few post-session IPAs. Never thought I’d drink in a grocery store, but Newport Beach folks clearly have it figured out—beer in a health food store somehow works.
Not entirely sure how to wrap up this little engagement photo recap, so I’ll just leave it here: goodbye. Fin.
Those interested in checking out more beach photography work can check out these engagement photos at Manhattan Beach Pier I photographed late last year! Cheers!
Frequently Asked Questions
Where are the best locations for an engagement photo session in or around Newport Beach?
Newport Beach, California offers myriad beautiful locations for your engagement photos. You’ll find picturesque spots such as the dreamy Heisler Park, the rustic Laguna Canyon, and the serene Crystal Cove State Park. If you’re looking for a more urban vibe, Downtown Laguna Beach or the vibrant Costa Mesa might be your perfect fit. Other fantastic location options include the iconic Victoria Beach, charming Balboa Island, and the tranquil James Dilley Preserve. In the broader Orange County, consider locations like historic San Juan Capistrano for a touch of old-world charm.
What is the best time of year to take engagement photos in Newport?
Summer and fall are usually the best seasons for a Newport Beach engagement session. Why? The weather’s great, and the natural light is dreamy for photos. Summer gives you long, golden days—perfect for that iconic sunset glow. Fall offers softer, more romantic light that makes every shot feel effortless.
That said, the most important thing is your attitude. Show up ready to have fun, laugh, and just enjoy the moment. Bonus tip: winter sunsets in Orange County can be insanely colorful—so don’t count those out either!
What’s the best time of day to shoot engagement photos in Newport?
The best time for engagement photos in Newport? Golden hour, hands down. That’s right—shortly after sunrise or just before sunset, when the light turns soft, warm, and downright magical. Thinking about a sunset session at Willow Canyon? Or maybe an early morning vibe along the Space Trail? We’ll plan around your schedule and location so your photos capture you two in the absolute best light.
What should I consider when planning my Newport Beach engagement session?
Think about the vibe you want for your engagement photos. Want something natural? Laguna Beach or Crystal Cove State Park are solid picks. Craving city energy? Downtown Laguna or Costa Mesa might be your jam. Timing matters too—season and time of day can make or break the lighting. As your photographers, we’ll help you pick the right spots and schedule, keeping the process smooth and stress-free.
These are just ideas. Every couple is different, and our goal is to help you capture a setting that tells your story—and looks amazing while doing it.
