Perfect for dreamy oceanfront sessions with dramatic landscapes and golden sunsets.
Montaña de Oro offers some of the most breathtaking scenery in the county. With rugged coastal cliffs, lush eucalyptus forests, sweeping ocean views, golden bluffs, and secluded coves, this location is perfect for couples wanting an adventurous, cinematic feel to their photos with a bit of everything scenic. Trails lead to hidden beaches, and the sunsets here are unreal. Parking is free but can get crowded on weekends.
The Oceano Dunes offer a stunning desert-like backdrop with rolling sand ridges and soft, golden hues. This location is perfect for barefoot sunset sessions, creating the feeling of a far-off adventure in a dramatic desert oasis. Parking is available near the entrance, with a short walk to the best dunes.
Avila Beach is a charming seaside town with a variety of photo spots, including the wooden pier, rolling hills in the background, and golden sand beaches. It’s a fantastic choice for couples wanting a relaxed, sun-kissed beach session with easy access to amenities like cafés and restaurants. It's also a lovely spot for a surprise proposal session! Metered parking is available near the beach, and sunset sessions here are especially dreamy and very 'Cali' lol.
Morro Bay State Beach provides a stunning oceanfront setting with Morro Rock as a dramatic, iconic backdrop (fun nerdy fact: Morro Rock was an inspiration for Star Wars). The gentle waves and sandy shoreline create a peaceful and intimate atmosphere, perfect for couples who love the ocean. Parking is easy and free in designated lots nearby.
Great for vintage-inspired, colorful, or architecturally interesting backdrops.
For couples who love an urban setting, Downtown SLO offers a mix of historic charm and modern energy. From rustic brick alleyways to the iconic Mission Plaza and charming storefronts, this location provides a variety of unique backdrops. It’s especially great for more editorial, fashion-forward sessions. Parking is available in garages or along the streets, but it can be busier on weekends.
The Madonna Inn is an iconic and colorful location, perfect for couples who want a playful and nostalgic feel to their photos. From the pink and gold interiors (every room has its own unique design!) to the charming outdoor spaces, every corner of this venue is a visual treat. Convenient parking is available on-site.
Nestled in the rolling hills between San Luis Obispo and Avila Beach, Chateau Noland is a dreamy European-style estate perfect for a fairytale engagement session or elegant portraits. With its charming stone architecture, ivy-covered walls, and lush gardens, this venue exudes old-world romance. The property features scenic vineyard views, grand oak trees, and beautifully manicured landscapes, offering a variety of picturesque backdrops. Parking is available on-site, making it an easy and convenient location for a relaxed, intimate shoot.
Beautiful natural settings with trees, trails, and rustic charm.
For those who love enchanted forest settings, Los Osos Oaks Reserve is a hidden gem. Towering, gnarled oak trees draped in moss create a whimsical, storybook-like atmosphere. The natural tunnels formed by twisting branches offer a beautiful and intimate setting for portraits. The reserve has a small dirt parking lot, and the shaded trails provide soft, even lighting.
Tucked away in Los Osos, Sweet Springs Nature Preserve is a quiet retreat featuring winding boardwalk trails, eucalyptus groves, and stunning views of Morro Bay. The golden light filtering through the trees at sunset creates a soft, ethereal feel. Parking is free and easy to find nearby.
For a truly magical and nature-filled experience, Pismo Beach Butterfly Grove is a unique location that offers stunning natural beauty—especially from late October through February, when thousands of Monarch butterflies migrate here. Towering eucalyptus trees create a serene forested atmosphere, with golden light filtering through the leaves for a soft, glowing effect in photos. The grove is just a short walk from the dunes and shoreline, making it an ideal spot to combine woodland and beach aesthetics in a single session. Free parking is available in the adjacent lot, and easy walking trails connect to nearby beach access for even more variety.
Ideal for sweeping views, golden light, and adventurous vibes.
For panoramic views of SLO’s rolling hills, Prefumo Canyon is unbeatable. The winding drive up the canyon leads to a breathtaking overlook where golden hour light creates a magical atmosphere. This spot is ideal for couples who love wide-open landscapes and dramatic, moody skies. Parking is roadside and limited, but the view is worth it!
Bishop Peak is perfect for adventurous couples who love a bit of a climb. The summit provides incredible panoramic views of the city and coastline. The hike is moderate to challenging, so it’s best suited for couples comfortable with a little trek before their shoot. Parking is available at the trailhead.
Madonna Mountain offers a more accessible alternative to Bishop Peak while still delivering beautiful hilltop views. It’s an especially great location in the spring when wildflowers bloom, adding a soft, romantic touch to photos. Sunset here is incredible, with the golden hills catching the last light of the day. Parking is available at the trailhead.
Terrace Hill is a hidden gem for couples who want an elevated view of SLO without a strenuous hike. The open hilltop space provides a minimalist yet cinematic backdrop, making it perfect for golden hour shoots. The parking lot is conveniently close, making this a great choice for those looking for a quick but stunning location.
Whether you’re envisioning windswept cliffs, cozy oak forests, or lively city streets, I’d love to help bring your vision to life. If any of these locations speak to you, let’s chat and create some magic together!
“He intimately captured our passion, friendship, admiration, laughter, & love for one another on a completely different level.”
BONNIE & TAJ
Interested? HIT ME UP! I’d love to hear from you.
I typically respond within 24-48 hours, though response times may vary depending on the season. Thanks so much for your patience—I appreciate it!
Celebrating love with a dash of style, a sprinkle of laughter and two precious fur babies at a breathtaking CaliPaso Winery wedding. Congrats Justin & Paul! 💍 Your love story is as captivating as the venue itself. #weddingday #loveislove #CaliPasoWinery
If you or anyone you know is looking for a wedding photographer specializing in soulful, cinematic wedding photos that don`t things *too* seriously, I`d love to connect. 😊
Shoot me a DM or inquire directly through my website (link in bio).
Much love! 🥰
A little backyard wedding for your Tuesday evening viewing pleasure. 😌💕🪄
#weddingphotographer
#californiaweddingday
#intimateweddings
Another gorgeous @madonnainn1958 wedding in the books! Congrats Mackenzie & Nathaniel! 😍💘
#weddingphotography #madonnainn #sanluisobispowedding #californiawedding
@downtownslo elopement photos are always so vibey 😍 and if you’re lucky, a kind old gentleman might even lend you his classic convertible for a vintage glow-up…thank you kind sir wherever you are!😎🚘
#downtownslo #slocal #sanluisobispoweddingphotographer #elopementphotography #editorialwedding
Celebrate love amidst warm greenery and rich history at Dallidet Adobe & Gardens. Remembering Julia and Rudy`s intimate wedding with artisan details and an overflow of emotions. Here’s to our journey in capturing beautiful moments. 📸 #SanLuisObispoWedding #DallidetAdobeWedding
If you or anyone you know is looking for a wedding photographer specializing in soulful, cinematic wedding photos that don`t things *too* seriously, I`d love to connect. 😊
Shoot me a DM or inquire directly through my website (link in bio).
Much love! 🥰
What a wonderful wedding weekend spent with these two lovelies! ☺️💍
From their intimate elopement ceremony with their closest loved ones, to a vibey reception party with the full squad the day after, Justin & Paul threw a helluva party at @calipasowineryandvilla 😊🙌🏻🌈
It was so sweet getting to capture all the fun, the love, and the laughs — including the most unexpectedly hilarious “perfect timing” moment ever during the wedding toasts…let’s just say love was in the air for sure lol. 🐶💘😆
Hope everyone is doing well out there! 🙏🏻 I for one am stoked to have a rare weekend off after what’s been a very busy wedding season so far — it’s time to leave the creative lair, touch some grass, cruise to San Diego and catch one of my fave artists @sanholobeats with my future rave wifey @harmonic.holistics — San Diego homies hit us up if you’re around this weekend!
Love y’all!💗
Lastly, shout out to our amazing vendor team:
Venue: @calipasowineryandvilla
Coordinator: @paso_weddingsmith
Photo: @jameslesterphoto // @slotography
Live Band/DJ: @weareblitznation
Cocktail Bar: @cartsidecocktails
Dessert: @cider_creek
Rentals: @allaboutevents + @taylor_rental
Diana & Chris’s wedding day was pure magic — a cliffside first look, the sweetest pup, and a moody coastal sunset that made for stunning romantic portraits of these two. From heartfelt vows to a full-out dance party under the stars, it was such a joy capturing the love these two share. Hope you enjoy a little peek into their gorgeous celebration!
Planner: @idoeventscentralcoast
Venue/Catering: @raggedpointinn
Photography: @jameslesterphoto + @makayla_grogan_photographer
Band: @luckydevilsband
Rentals: @gycrentals
Dress: @blushingbridesocal
Just wrapped up posting Sarah & Niels` unforgettable courthouse wedding in San Luis Obispo to the blog! Their love, spontaneity, and unique twists melted my heart! 📸 #WeddingPhotography #SanLuisObispoWedding #LoveStory
If you or anyone you know is looking for a wedding photographer specializing in soulful, cinematic wedding photos that don`t things *too* seriously, I`d love to connect. 😊
Shoot me a DM or inquire directly through my website (link in bio).
Much love! 🥰