Here are some of my favorite places to photograph outdoor session in Orange County. Please keep in mind that the color/ look/ landscaping of the parks can differ depending on the time of day, season, maintenance of park, etc.

These images are just a reference point.

Carbon Canyon Regional Park, Brea

$3 Parking on weekdays, $5 on weekends
Permit is required, but we hold an annual permit for OC Parks
Only for 1 hour sessions

Santiago Oaks Canyon, Anaheim

$3 Parking on weekdays, $5 on weekends
Permit is required, but we hold an annual permit for OC Parks

Downtown, Santa Ana

Meter parking or park in structure
Urban with buildings

Riley Wilderness Park, Mission Viejo/Coto de Caza

$3 Parking on weekdays, $5 on weekends
Permit is required, but we hold an annual permit for OC Parks

Irvine Regional Park, Irvine

$3 Parking on weekdays, $5 on weekends

Permit is required, but we hold an annual permit for OC Parks

Crystal Cove, Laguna Beach

$15 for day parking
A little bit of green + a lot of beach. You have to walk down a steep flight of stairs to get to the beach. If you’d like the yellow flowers, they are on top of the cliff on the opposite end of the parking lot. Both locations would require 1 hour session. For 30 minute session, please select one or the other spot.
$100 Permit must be obtained by client.

Jeffery Open Trail, Irvine

Free Parking
Easy access
No permit required
Stoney creek bed and dirt road with trees

Noguchi Garden, Costa Mesa

$1.75 per every 15 minute parking
Has lots of variety of backgrounds. Minimalistic, modern look with simple white or beige stone wall, pyramid, and succulent garden.

Quail Hill, Irvine

Free Parking.
About 7 minute walk from parking lot

Oso Viejo Trail, Mission Viejo

Free parking
Easy access
Paved pathway with bridge

Calafia Beach, San Clemente

Easy access to the beach
Has cliff-side for variation in setting only available for 30 minutes or longer unless everyone follows directions really quickly.

Serrano Creek Park, Lake Forest

5-6 minute walk from parking
Street parking
Paved sidewalk & eucalyptus forest