California - Southern Wedding Photographers

California - Southern Wedding Photographers

Our California - Southern photographers also provide documentary-style coverage in: Los Angeles, San Diego, Long Beach, Anaheim, Santa Ana, Fullerton, Pasadena, Chula Vista, Encinitas, San Bernardino, Orange County, Irvine, Riverside, Bakersfield, Simi Valley, Malibu, Ventura, and all of Southern California (SoCal)

California - Southern Wedding Photography, Engagement Photo Sessions + Elopements

Intimate Wedding Photography in California - Southern - Capturing the Joy of Small Celebrations - Discover the best California - Southern photographers specializing in intimate marriages. Couples are embracing the trend of smaller, more meaningful celebrations. Let our talented photographers capture the joy and intimacy of your wedding day.

By planning a simple California - Southern elopement, couples are able to stay present in the moment and fully absorb the impact of their wedding day. Given the fact that many couples feel more natural and at ease in intimate settings, it's no surprise that some of the most breathtaking wedding images come from elopements.

The WPJA has an abundance of top-ranked, California - Southern documentary wedding photographers available right now who understand that some weddings and elopements can’t wait. Find yours today!

Recent WPJA WedElope Story Awards

California - Southern Photographers for Large or Small Weddings

Shooting an elopement or small California - Southern wedding event is a wedding photojournalist’s dream: a fairly open schedule with lots of breathing space for creativity – it’s just the photographer, the couple, the officiant, and perhaps a few select companions.

United States WPJA members are ready to document any outside, city hall, pop-up, or elopement wedding, even if it is a Monday-Thursday ceremony. Search for the “Can Shoot Weddings on Short Notice!” message on the listings below.

42 California - Southern Wedding Photographers...

California wedding and elopement photographer Annie Bang

As a wedding photojournalist and creative engagement portrait photographer in California, Annie Bang brings a background as a former journalist and Associated Press reporter. With a focus on documenting real moments and emotions, she uses documentary and photojournalistic...

Annie Bang

Los Angeles in California, US *Now booking California - Southern weddings.
2500 (USD)
Shaun Baker - Wedding Photographer and Couple Portrait Professional

Shaun Baker is a USA-based photographer who put down his video camera after graduating college to pursue photography; he shot his first wedding in 2009.

Shaun Baker

San Diego in California, US *Now booking California - Southern weddings.
2900 (USD)
California wedding photography by Brett Butterstein

Based in Southern California, Brett Butterstein is a highly skilled wedding photojournalist with a background in photojournalism and extensive experience in newspaper photography. With his keen eye for detail and ability to capture raw emotions, he is the ideal choice for...

Brett Butterstein

Encinitas in California, US *Now booking California - Southern weddings.
3500 (USD)
Portrait of Loren Haar, Engagement, Elopement and Wedding Photographer

Loren Haar is a skilled traveling wedding photographer known for capturing authentic and emotional moments. With a background in documenting significant life events, Loren's passion for photography truly blossomed after learning manual mode.

Loren Haar

Ventura in California, US *Now booking California - Southern weddings.
2200 (USD)
Engagement Photo Shoots and wedding photography by Darren Hendry

Darren Hendry, an architecture-trained photographer, has spent 7 years capturing unique wedding stories through his natural, emotive, and creative style. Specializing in non-traditional and offbeat weddings, he combines his passion for photography and storytelling to create...

Darren Hendry

Pasadena in California, US *Now booking California - Southern weddings.
2500 (USD)
Wedding Photography by Thinh Phan

Thinh Phan, a wedding photojournalist and creative engagement portrait photographer, brings a flair for capturing couples' vibrant personalities in bold and colorful outdoor portraits. With a background in design and a passion for photography, Thinh skillfully crafts...

Thinh Phan

in California, US *Now booking California - Southern weddings.
2500 (USD)
California Documentary Wedding and Elopement Photography by Gina Clyne

California wedding photographer Gina Clyne specializes in photojournalistic style imagery, capturing formal portraits that reflect couples' personalities and documenting subtle and profound moments of the day with her gentle eye.

Gina Clyne

Los Angeles in California, US *Now booking California - Southern weddings.
2100 (USD)
California wedding photography by Jonathan Young

Jonathan Young, a California coast photographer, combines 20 years experience, a photojournalist background, and a keen eye for detail, capturing the joy and emotion of each wedding day.

Jonathan Young

Palos Verdes Estates in California, US *Now booking California - Southern weddings.
5500 (USD)
Engagement couple portraits and elopement photography by Brenda Bravo - Bravo Image

Award-winning traveling wedding photographer Brenda Bravo documents social work with a degree in Visual Communication & minor in Sociology from University. She has over 10 years of photography experience & attended photojournalism workshops around the world.

Brenda Bravo

Pasadena in California, US *Now booking California - Southern weddings.
2000 (USD)
Studio portrait of wedding photographer Sierra Dawn

Sierra Dawn is a USA-based wedding photojournalist and portrait photographer with a passion for capturing beautiful moments. Influenced by her father's 20+ years in the profession, she brings a wealth of expertise and knowledge to her work.

Sierra Dawn

Los Angeles in California, US *Now booking California - Southern weddings.
5500 (USD)
Destination weddings and elopement photography by Dennis Mock

Dennis Mock, a skilled documentary wedding photographer, combines his expertise in sports and architectural photography to deliver stunning compositions. He has received recognition and awards from professional photography associations, as well as prestigious honors from...

Dennis Mock

San Diego in California, US *Now booking California - Southern weddings.
450/hour (USD)
Lifestyle portrait of Brittany Bender, a San Diego wedding photographer - Southern California WPJA

San Diego wedding photojournalist, Brittany Bender, excels at capturing candid and emotional moments. With a talent for storytelling, she artistically portrays the unique experiences of her subjects.

Brittany Bender

San Diego in California, US *Now booking California - Southern weddings.
3000 (USD)
Lifestyle Portrait of Wedding and Elopement Photographer James Juarez

Based in the Western USA, James Juarez is a Mexican-American wedding photojournalist with a degree in Art History from UCLA. With 8 years of experience in documenting punk bands and the fashion industry, he brings a unique perspective to capturing your special day.

James Juarez

Los Angeles in California, US *Now booking California - Southern weddings.
2450 (USD)
Documentary wedding photography by Rebecca Aranda

Rebecca Aranda is a West Coast North American wedding photographer with decades of experience in storytelling. She draws on her background in theater, film, and publishing to capture the joy of each moment.

Rebecca Aranda

Los Angeles in California, US *Now booking California - Southern weddings.
5000 (USD)
Southern California wedding photography and engagement portraits by Attila Iuhasz

Attila Iuhasz is a Southern California wedding photojournalist and engagement portrait photographer with a passion for capturing candid moments. With a background in Management and Marketing, Attila is an adaptable and open-minded professional, constantly improving his...

Attila Iuhasz

Los Angeles in California, US *Now booking California - Southern weddings.
2400 (USD)
Weddings, engagement portraits and elopement photography by Nikhol Esteras

With a documentary approach to storytelling, Nikhol Esteras, a wedding photographer based in Oaxaca and California, captures authentic and unique moments, combining her background in psychology and holistic health.

Nikhol Esteras

Oaxaca de Juárez in Oaxaca, MX *Now booking California - Southern weddings.
3000 (USD)
Gretchen Troop Photography Studio for Weddings, Elopements and Portraits

With a Bachelor's degree in Studio Photography, Gretchen Troop excels as a wedding photojournalist. Her talent lies in capturing natural and candid moments, creating memories that last a lifetime.

Gretchen Troop

Boulder in Colorado, US *Now booking California - Southern weddings.
3000 (USD)
California Couple Portrait Sessions and Wedding Photography by Stephanie Secrest

Based in Central Coast CA, Stephanie Secrest is a wedding and engagement portrait photographer. She holds a Master's in photojournalism and has been recognized for her work in prestigious contests like Pictures of the Year.

Stephanie Secrest

Arroyo Grande in California, US *Now booking California - Southern weddings.
3300 (USD)
Wedding and elopement photography by Will Tee - SW Wedding Photo Studio

Will Tee, co-founder of SW Photo Studio, is an experienced wedding photographer who excels at capturing real moments. His love for travel and exposure to different cultures has made him open-minded and allows him to integrate unique perspectives into his creative...

Will Tee

Taipei City, TW *Now booking California - Southern weddings.
2000 (USD)
Weddings by Chris Shum, Life Photographer

Chris Shum is a wedding, engagement, lifestyle, and family photographer with a lifelong passion for art. With his artistic eye and unobstructive approach, Chris captures the beauty and joy of weddings, creating elegant, storytelling photographs that couples can treasure...

Chris Shum

Sunnyvale in California, US *Now booking California - Southern weddings.
4500 (USD)
Adventure wedding and elopement photography by Kimmi Cranes

Based in Lake Tahoe, California and Nevada, Kimmi Cranes is a wedding photojournalist and portrait photographer, specializing in elopements. With a decade of professional experience and a Bachelor of Fine Arts degree from UC Santa Cruz, she expertly captures the emotions...

Kimmi Cranes

South Lake Tahoe in California, US *Now booking California - Southern weddings.
2000 (USD)
Madison wedding and elopement photography by Ilana Bar-av of Wisconsin

With a documentary approach, Ilana Bar av embraces the art of storytelling through her visual wedding photography. Inspired by her father and brother, both photographers, Barav defied skepticism to pursue her passion and now celebrates six thriving years in the industry.

Ilana Bar av

Madison in Wisconsin, US *Now booking California - Southern weddings.
4800 (USD)

Philip Thomas is a wedding photojournalist with over two decades of experience, known for his journalistic style and for capturing moments on a couple's big day. With a background in shooting local news, models, and actors, Philip's expertise shines through in his...

Philip Thomas

San Antonio in Texas, US *Now booking California - Southern weddings.
4500 (USD)
Wedding photography and elopements by Ray Iavasile of Michigan

Ray Anthony Iavasile, a wedding photojournalist based in Michigan, is celebrated for his journalistic style and ability to capture authentic moments. He is recognized as one of the Top 50 wedding photojournalists worldwide and is the go-to choice for couples in Michigan.

Ray Iavasile

Birmingham in Michigan, US *Now booking California - Southern weddings.
3000 (USD)
CA Engagemen, Wedding and Elopement Photography by Tyler Vu

Tyler Vu is a skilled Northern California wedding photojournalist, specializing in elopements and artistic portraits. With a background in graphic design, his simple philosophy centers around capturing life as it unfolds, emphasizing meaningful moments and exquisite...

Tyler Vu

San Jose in California, US *Now booking California - Southern weddings.
4000 (USD)
Northern California wedding photography by Drew Bird - Creative Storytelling

Drew Bird is a San Francisco Bay Area-based wedding photographer with years of experience. His focus is on telling stories through photographs, capturing authentic and unscripted expressions of beauty, love and connection.

Drew Bird

Oakland in California, US *Now booking California - Southern weddings.
3500 (USD)

Logan Westom is a documentary wedding photographer based in Seattle. With a career in professional photography spanning over a decade, Westom has shot for newspapers, couples’ special days, and Taylor Swift concerts...

Logan Westom

Bremerton in Washington, US *Now booking California - Southern weddings.
4000 (USD)

Douglas Despres is a photographer with a background in photojournalism and over 600 events photographed since 2002. Specializing in documentary-style shots with comfortable connections to family and guests, he brings his global photography experience to every shoot.

Douglas Despres

Alameda in California, US *Now booking California - Southern weddings.
750/hour (USD)

Dennis Viera, an award-winning wedding photographer, possesses nearly a decade of experience and began his photography journey in high school. With a passion for capturing life's moments, he has traveled extensively worldwide.

Dennis Viera

Rohnert Park in California, US *Now booking California - Southern weddings.
5000 (USD)

Gingi Freeman is a passionate traveling wedding photographer, artist, and storyteller. As a mother of two adorable toddlers, she often shoots alongside her husband Jonathan to capture real moments and raw emotions. Her non-intrusive approach allows couples to be present in...

Gingi Freeman

Visalia in California, US *Now booking California - Southern weddings.
1400 (USD)

Robert Walker, a highly acclaimed wedding photojournalist, boasts 17 years of experience in Texas and California. Known for his unobtrusive and journalistic style, he skillfully captures precious moments. Currently residing in Dallas with his family, Robert's...

Robert Walker

Dallas in Texas, US *Now booking California - Southern weddings.
2400 (USD)
A black and white portrait of William West - A Documentary Wedding Photographer

In 2006, William West began his career as a professional photographer, branching out to documentary wedding photography. He has photographed over 650 weddings around the world, making use of his diverse skills in business development, graphic design, and art.

William West

in New Jersey, US *Now booking California - Southern weddings.
3850 (USD)

Dan Harris is a US based wedding photographer with over 20 years experience working in newspapers. His lifelong affinity for photography was born when he was 8, learning about his mother's Kodak Brownie II camera. He has won several prestigious awards worldwide and has...

Dan Harris

Jacksonville in Florida, US *Now booking California - Southern weddings.
400/hour (USD)
Wedding and Elopement Photography by Kate Hagerty

Drawing from her experience in fine art framing, photojournalism, and acting, Kate Hagerty is a documentary wedding photographer who skillfully tells the story of couples on their wedding day.

Kate Hagerty

Pittsburgh in Pennsylvania, US *Now booking California - Southern weddings.
3000 (USD)
Portrait of Katharine Green from Katie Corinne Wedding Photography Studio

Katharine Green, an experienced Colorado wedding photojournalist, has been expertly capturing love-filled moments for over a decade, specializing in wedding, engagement, and proposal photography alongside her associate, Jamie.

Katharine Green

Monument in Colorado, US *Now booking California - Southern weddings.
3000 (USD)
Jason Kaczorowski, Destination Wedding Photography - USA

A seasoned documentary wedding photographer, Jason Kaczorowski brings more than 18 years of experience to his craft, adeptly capturing over 650 weddings. His talent lies in creating timeless memories that encapsulate the essence of each relationship.

Jason Kaczorowski

Chicago in Illinois, US *Now booking California - Southern weddings.
3900 (USD)
Texas wedding and elopement photography by Kristin Bednarz

Kristin Bednarz is a seasoned wedding photojournalist with expertise in capturing the essence of weddings through her storytelling approach. She has documented more than 250+ weddings worldwide.

Kristin Bednarz

Slaton in Texas, US *Now booking California - Southern weddings.
4500 (USD)
Portrait of Amber Depangher of Sightglass Photography Studio

Amber Depangher is a documentary wedding photographer with a vibrant portfolio spanning 20 years. With roots in high school and a leap of faith after college, Amber and her artistic husband form an eclectic duo, delighting clients with their distinct styles.

Amber Depangher

Portland in Oregon, US *Now booking California - Southern weddings.
500/hour (USD)
Studio portrait of Wes Shinn - owner / wedding and elopement photography studio

Wes Shinn, a documentary wedding photographer with a decade of experience as a military photojournalist, beautifully documents every detail and narrative of your wedding, creating powerful and cherished memories.

Wes Shinn

Chesapeake in Virginia, US *Now booking California - Southern weddings.
3400 (USD)
Marla Manes, a PNW ADVENTURE ELOPEMENT PHOTOGRAPHER in Seattle WA

Seattle-based Marla Manes, skilled in wedding photojournalism and portraiture, integrates values and sustainability. Creates comfort for exceptional photos.

Marla Manes

Seattle in Washington, US *Now booking California - Southern weddings.
5500 (USD)
Chris Rusanowsky self portrait of a wedding photographer in black and white

Chris Rusanowsky is a traveling documentary wedding photographer based in the US. With a passion for capturing truth and storytelling, Chris has been creating compelling images for clients for over fourteen years. He loves traveling, trying new foods, and spending time with...

Chris Rusanowsky

Northlake in Texas, US *Now booking California - Southern weddings.
2500 (USD)
Lifestyle portrait of Evie Felts, a wedding and elopement photographer

Evie Felts is a former high school Spanish teacher turned photographer for 5 years. She enjoys connecting with people worldwide, capturing intimate moments. Evie resides in southwest Colorado, balancing her photography with caring for her kids and exploring the mountains.

Evie Felts

Mancos in Colorado, US *Now booking California - Southern weddings.
3000 (USD)

Map of Wedding Photojournalists Serving California - Southern Couples

California - Southern Wedding, Elopement and Engagement Images by WPJA Photographers

Below are some California - Southern wedding photography samples from the world’s best wedding photographers of the WPJA. Some of these California - Southern marriage pictures might be artistic portraits, details, or documentary-style images that have come from getting ready sessions, wedding ceremonies, reception venues, or California - Southern engagement portrait sessions with couples.

At a private home in Ventura, California, a groomsman stands in awe, observing the table adorned with an array of tools and products as the bride indulges in the meticulous process of getting her hair and makeup done.
At a private home in Ventura, California, a moment unfolds as the mother and bride collaborate on final touches during the getting ready process. Reflected in multiple mirrors, their bond is echoed in the shared reflection.
A beautiful bride tosses rose petals as part of an Indian wedding tradition, captured in a candid moment at Mount Palomar Winery in Temecula, CA.
Emotional moment captured at Malibou Lake Lodge in Agoura Hills, CA, as the parents of the bride and groom wipe away tears during the outdoor wedding ceremony.
In a serene moment at Lake Oak Meadows Weddings and Events in Temecula, CA, the newlyweds are caught wiping away tears of joy right after saying "I do" outdoors.
Creative couple portrait by a Malibu wedding photographer at El Matador Beach in CA, the couple stands holding hands in nature with balloons.
Engagement portrait of a couple under the Santa Monica Pier, CA, captured by a SoCal wedding photographer - a fine art portrayal of a low sun.
Engagement portrait captured by a Southern California wedding photographer at Santa Monica Pier as the couple enjoys a roller coaster ride in the afternoon sunlight.
Creative portrait of a couple walking and holding hands with cotton candy at Santa Monica Pier by a Santa Monica wedding photographer.
Engagement portrait by a LA wedding photographer, The Grove, Los Angeles, CA - The couple plays amidst whimsical candy-themed decor in a playful portrait session.
A groom is carried to the bride during their baraat, a celebratory wedding procession at Malibu Solstice in Malibu, California.
Newlyweds enjoying hor dourves at The Maxwell House in Pasadena, California after their romantic wedding ceremony in Southern California.

Frequently Asked Questions

Q: Where can I find a photographer for a short-notice, small California - Southern wedding?
A: There are many WPJA photographers who are able to help you out at a moment's notice. We understand that sometimes love happens and there's simply no time to lose. We can ensure that you can get married as quickly as possible — and have incredible photographs to remember your California - Southern wedding day by.
Q: Who are the best California - Southern wedding photographers for small elopements?
A: The WPJA is proud to have some of the top California - Southern documentary wedding photographers for elopements. Our members are able to submit WedElope Stories that take you step-by-step, via a 9 image picture story, through the unique and moving elopements that take place around the world.
Q: How can couples find reviews of California - Southern wedding photographers?
A: We call them Client Letters. At the WPJA, we decided more than 20 years ago to avoid incorporating those third-person testimonials and endorsements that are found all too often in advertisements. Instead, we elevated our listings with the use of Client Letters, which represent the actual words and feelings of the clients who booked those California - Southern wedding photographers for their own wedding.
WPJA Communiqué: Featured Wedding Photography Articles
While some people live for the hustle and bustle of a big wedding with extravagant décor and an impossibly long guest list, others find these kinds of weddings to be too much hoopla, preferring instead something simpler and quieter, allowing for more intimacy between them...Read more
Clean background in this photo of the bride walking into her mountain ceremony.
Some couples, as they begin planning for their weddings, might think that they are limited to the classic locations: churches, gardens, beaches, or even Las Vegas. But in doing so they’re missing out on a multitude of unique options that might suit their personalities much...Read more
While some of us were fortunate enough to be born as extroverts, not everyone feels the same way. For a good chunk of the population, any number of the typical wedding day traditions can inspire anxiety and existential dread. This day is all about you, yes, but does that...Read more

RAVES, REVIEWS, AND California - Southern WEDDING PHOTOGRAPHER RECOMMENDATIONS

Couple celebrating wedding post-ceremony by the lake at Fallen Leaf Lake, South Lake Tahoe, CA

John & Claire

Photo by James Juarez

We've been distracted this weekend moving all of John's stuff into our new LES apartment but rest assured - we have been evenly splitting our time between moving and lovingly gazing at your photos. We love them! They're so beautiful and captured the vibe and energy so well. So exciting!

Hong Kong East Ocean wedding in Emeryville, CA. Chinese wedding photojournalism Drew Bird

Benita & Ben

Photo by Drew Bird

Drew, thanks so much for everything. We had so much fun working with you. From start to finish you were great to work with and showed the highest professionalism. All of our guests really enjoyed how fun you were, too. And the photos!! The images are just beautiful. Every time we look through the photo story we see new favorites and amazing moments. Even though the wedding was only a month ago the images bring back so many amazing memories. We are so happy that you were our photographer. We will definitely be recommending you to all our family and friends. Also let us know where we can give you some public shout-outs! Thanks again!

Marcela & Rishi

Photo by Philip Thomas

What can we say...thank you so very much for sharing your art and your passion with us during our wedding weekend! Your photos capture the essence of the weekend-the joy, the fun, the passion, the love-you got it all. We can't wait to see "the book" and we can't want to work with you again. Thanks again!