Newport Beach Engagement Photos With Drew & Randi
About six months ago I was driving up to Laguna Beach for an engagement session at Victoria Beach when I called my buddy who lives in the area to see if he wanted to grab pizza and beers after. He had to pass because he was heading to Los Angeles for an Empire of the Sun show but mentioned he had a spare ticket if I wanted to meet him after my shoot. I said hell yes and ended up partying all night in LA after the shoot.
That night I met Randi. She was telling me about her upcoming wedding in Temecula and I mentioned I shoot there all the time. Turns out she was getting married at Galway Downs, a venue I had literally just photographed the month before. We pulled up our calendars right there and the only day I had open in October was her wedding day. Boom.
We locked in her Newport Beach engagement session with Drew shortly after. Now you might be asking yourself what any of that has to do with engagement photos in Newport Beach. Fair question. The answer is that sometimes the best bookings come from the most random nights and this one started with an Empire of the Sun concert and ended with a wedding on the books.
Newport Beach Engagement Photo Locations
Look, I have shot engagement photos all over Orange County. Santa Ana, Costa Mesa, San Juan Capistrano, Corona Del Mar, Huntington Beach, downtown Laguna Beach. All great. But Newport Beach hits different and after years of shooting couples up and down this coastline I am fully convinced there is no better spot for engagement photos in Southern California.
Here are my go to locations when I am shooting in Newport:
- Balboa Ferris Wheel and Balboa Island
- Newport Pier
- Crystal Cove State Park
- The Point at Lookout Point
- Big Corona Beach
- The Castaways Park
- Anywhere the drinks are cold and you feel comfortable
That last one is genuinely on the list. A relaxed couple makes for better photos every single time and if that relaxation comes from a cold beer on a patio somewhere in Newport then I am fully on board with that plan.
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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.
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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 Some Rad Spots In Newport Beach For Photos?
Honestly the whole city is fair game but my personal favorites are Crystal Cove State Park, Big Corona Beach, the Balboa Ferris Wheel on Balboa Island, Newport Pier, and The Point at Lookout Point. If you want something a little more tucked away The Castaways Park is one of those spots that most people drive right past without knowing it exists. And if you are willing to venture slightly south, Victoria Beach in Laguna is worth the extra twenty minutes.
When Is The Best Time of Year To Shoot?
Summer and fall are the sweet spots. Summer gives you long golden days and that warm coastal light that makes everything look incredible. Fall gets softer and more romantic and the crowds thin out which means more privacy. That said winter sunsets in Orange County are genuinely some of the most colorful I have ever shot so do not count December and January out entirely.
What Is The Best Time of Day For Engagement Photos In The OC?
Golden hour without question. The hour before sunset gives you warm soft light that is flattering on everyone and makes the ocean and coastline look absolutely incredible. Sunrise works beautifully too if you are willing to set an early alarm and want the beach entirely to yourselves.
What Should I Wear For My Newport Beach Engagement Session?
Outfits that feel like you. Honestly, whatever you want and feel good rocking. Flowing maxi dresses, linen shirts, neutral tones, bold colors that pop against the sand and water. The most important thing is that you feel comfortable because comfort shows up in every single photo. If you feel awkward in it do not wear it. Simple as that.
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.
