Best Photoshoot Locations in San Diego

Become a space cowgirl with a photoshoot at the Glamis Sand Dunes in SD

Just an hour east from San Diego you can get transported to another world at the Glamis Sand Dunes. This is the perfect location to living your cowboy lost on mars dreams. Or maybe a runaway bride lost in the desert, either way this backdrop is to die for in any photoshoot.

location: Algodones Dunes

outfit ideas: Mini dresses, cowboy boots, accented makeup, and don’t forget the hat!

Try a futuristic photoshoot approach at The Salk institute in San Diego

The Salk Institute for Biological Sciences in La Jolla, San Diego, is an architectural gem that has been attracting photographers for years. Its brutalist architecture, characterized by its sharp lines, geometric shapes and raw materials, creates a futuristic and androgynous vibe that is both distinctive and stylish. The Salk Institute is an active workspace, but its grounds are open to the public on weekends, making it a prime location for photo shoots. Whether you’re a fashion photographer looking for a unique backdrop for your next editorial spread, or simply a keen amateur capturing memories with friends and family, the Salk Institute is the perfect photoshoot location. With its iconic architecture and stunning views of the Pacific Ocean, you’ll leave with a stunning portfolio of images that truly capture the essence of San Diego’s beauty. So, if you’re looking for a location that will elevate your photoshoot to the next level, be sure to include the Salk Institute on your list.

location: 10010 N Torrey Pines Rd, La Jolla, CA 92037

outfit ideas: clean lines and accented body parts is the way to go here. Try a cropped blazer or monochrome outfit to make a bold statement.

Balboa Park archways are perfect for sweet boho San Diego photoshoots

Balboa park is the epicenter of all good photoshoot locations in San Diego, but I think the arched hallways deserve their own spotlight. Pretend you are running through the corridors of a castle while getting the most fabulous pictures taken of you. This location is also great for engagement and family portraits due to the rustic charm of the architecture. We have some great fall fashion recommendations to go with this San Diego photoshoot spot.

location: 1549 El Prado, San Diego, CA 92101

outfit ideas: Long flowing gowns to run through the halls in!

Mix things up with a Photoshoot in La Jolla Cove

The beaches in La Jolla Cove may be crowded but that shouldn’t stop you from having an amazing beach photoshoot. La Jolla has some of the best beaches in San Diego, that are perfect for photoshoots during any time of the day. It’s always easy to throw on a bikini and take some photos at the beach. Create a more avant garde series with a large blazer and lingerie. A unique but beautiful take on the standard beach photoshoot. Turn this into a date at sunset as well!

location: Marine Street Beach

Cottage Core photoshoot with picnic vibes at Kate Sessions park

Kate Sessions offers picturesque rolling hills perfect for a cottage core picnic photoshoot. Bring all your friends for this fun photoshoot and don’t forget the props! A picnic blanket and charcuterie board are a must and not only will the photos turn out great, you’ll get to have a fun picnic as well!

location: 5115 Soledad Rd, San Diego, CA 92109

outfit ideas: Long flowy dresses, light colors, simple makeup, small braids with curled hair

Surfing Photos at Scripps Pier

Scripps Pier is one of the most popular beaches in San Diego, especially for beginning surfers. Across from the University of California, San Diego and home of Scripps Institute of Oceanography many students find this beach easy going and fun to surf at. Grab some friends and long boards to enjoy the day at Scripps beach in sunny San Diegos 360 days of sunshine.

Location: Scripps Beach Pier

Goddess Shoot at Sunset Cliffs

Sunset cliffs is one of the best places to spend a sunset date in San Diego, but it can also offer a beautiful photoshoot location. Make your photos unique by wearing a long flowing dress and goddess like headpiece. The best times to take photos in this location are during off seasons when less tourists populate the cliffs. On rare low tides you can access the beach and caves below. Make sure you have a tide chart handy though because rescues in this area are common from people getting stuck below the cliffs.

Location: Sunset Cliffs

Classic Fashion at the Carlsbad Flower Gardens

The Flower Fields in Carlsbad are one of the most beautiful sights that bloom once a year, this location is ideal for photoshoots with your friends. The venue have a restriction on large camera photography so be prepared to take the photos on your IPhone. The 2021 season has come to a close, but the Flower Fields will be open again spring of 2022. This photoshoot location offers many beautiful spots including the endless expanse of Ranunculus. Tickets are inexpensive and flowers, food, and fun can be purchased too. Make a whole day out of this photoshoot idea at the Carlsbad Flower Fields.

Location: 5704 Paseo Del Norte, Carlsbad, CA 92008

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