With its diverse landscapes and dreamy venues, California has long been a wedding photographer’s paradise. In a state known for its breathtaking coastlines, vineyard-dotted valleys, and vibrant urban scenes, it takes an exceptional talent to capture the essence of these beautiful moments.
In this article, we introduce you to the top wedding photographers in California. Whether you’re planning an intimate beach elopement or a lavish city soirée, these photographers bring their unique perspectives to each wedding they shoot. From the serene beaches of Malibu to the rolling hills of Napa Valley, they’re skilled in weaving the unique narratives of California’s couples into every frame. Join us in discovering the creative minds who can make your California wedding moments last forever in the most breathtaking way.
Paula Richelle is a professional wedding and elopement photographer based in Los Angeles. She’s recognized as an Expert by the Unravelled Academy and is frequently celebrated as one of their Artists of the Week.
Her primary objective is to artistically document the unique love stories of couples in a way that transcends time. Paula excels in adopting a journalistic approach to weddings, capturing genuine moments as they unfold. When necessary, she offers gentle guidance and poses to ensure that your wedding day yields the most stunning photographs.
Clients rave about Paula’s knack for capturing those often missed but precious moments. She’s not just skilled at framing the monumental aspects of your big day, like the venue, decor, and table settings. Still, she’s also a formidable collaborator when it comes to working with vendor teams and wedding planners.
Lindsey Merri is a wedding photographer based in Orange County who prioritizes capturing authentic moments over stiff, posed shots. Her passion for photography was sparked by cherished memories of her father, always seen with a camera in hand. Her photography journey took flight when he handed down his old camera to her during her first year.
Lindsey deeply appreciates film and the timeless quality it brings to photographs, making them enduring mementos of your special day. Her photographic style combines elements of editorial posing and direction, yet she places the greatest emphasis on preserving the natural, heartfelt moments shared between couples and their loved ones on their wedding day. Lindsey thrives on creating a visual narrative that is entirely unique to each couple, steering away from a rigid checklist of posed shots. Moreover, she adores the nostalgic ambiance that film photography evokes and strives to infuse that same timeless, nostalgic essence into her digital images on a wedding day.
Nardia and Dan are the husband-and-wife duo behind Foolishly Rushing In. Based in California but with a global reach, this photography and cinematography team has become a sought-after choice, especially for those who desire a seamless blend of natural elements and a touch of fashion-forward flair.
Their journey of capturing love and weaving stories through photos and films spans over nine years, taking them to various corners of the globe. They share an unwavering belief in the profound impact of a compelling narrative. Nardia and Dan possess a unique ability to unveil the hidden notes of effortless romance, beauty, and love that exist within life’s subtly authentic moments. Their wedding captures embody a “laid-back luxury” style rooted in an appreciation for the unforced romance, an unwavering passion for beauty, and a deep love for their craft.
When documenting a wedding day, they understand the delicate balance between an editorial approach and a photojournalistic one. Throughout the day, they seamlessly transition between these two styles, always with a vision to maintain an organic and natural atmosphere where moments are preserved honestly and brimming with genuine memories.
Chelsea Gee is a creative wedding and editorial photographer rooted in the heart of Northern California. Her distinctive style seamlessly marries editorial precision with the candid charm of unscripted moments. Through her lens, she weaves a visual narrative that transcends the boundaries of conventional wedding photography.
For her, photography is an artistic conduit, allowing her to express herself fully. As a photographer, she profoundly appreciates life’s minutiae, the unpolished scenes, and the oft-overlooked details that brim with raw emotion. These very elements breathe life into her photographs, endowing them with a nostalgic quality that resonates deeply. Chelsea’s muse lies in natural light, the elegance of minimalism, the profundity of human connections, and the earthy allure of neutral tones – all of which infuse her images with a timeless allure. In her eyes, luxury resides in the minutest details, for these small moments genuinely matter.
Chelsea is a traveling soul driven by an insatiable desire to explore this beautiful world that we live in and meet new souls who are in love with each other. And every time, she discovers that even familiar landscapes can morph into something entirely new, for she understands that perspective plays a pivotal role in her artistry.
Chelsea Gee is a creative wedding and editorial photographer rooted in the heart of Northern California. Her distinctive style seamlessly marries editorial precision with the candid charm of unscripted moments. Through her lens, she weaves a visual narrative that transcends the boundaries of conventional wedding photography.
For her, photography is an artistic conduit, allowing her to express herself fully. As a photographer, she profoundly appreciates life’s minutiae, the unpolished scenes, and the oft-overlooked details that brim with raw emotion. These very elements breathe life into her photographs, endowing them with a nostalgic quality that resonates deeply. Chelsea’s muse lies in natural light, the elegance of minimalism, the profundity of human connections, and the earthy allure of neutral tones – all of which infuse her images with a timeless allure. In her eyes, luxury resides in the minutest details, for these small moments genuinely matter.
Chelsea is a traveling soul driven by an insatiable desire to explore this beautiful world that we live in and meet new souls who are in love with each other. And every time, she discovers that even familiar landscapes can morph into something entirely new, for she understands that perspective plays a pivotal role in her artistry.
B Erkmen is a destination wedding photographer based in Northern California. Her passion for storytelling has carried her to breathtaking places worldwide and is deeply interwoven with her personal journey. Transitioning from careers in engineering and tech to capturing the most enchanting celebrations in San Francisco and Europe, she views her life as a series of chapters.
Her photographic style explores the essence of connection and love through the interplay of light, motion, and composition. She masterfully captures the delicate balance of raw emotions, fleeting moments, and creative direction, resulting in work that is both timeless and elegant, infused with editorial influences.
What drives B (Burcu) is the rich tapestry of emotions experienced on a wedding day. She places great importance on crafting evocative imagery, intending to allow her couples to see and relive those precious emotions when they peruse their photo gallery. She aims to create heirlooms that transcend generations, forging an enduring connection.
Diane Bagaoisan is a wedding and elopement photographer hailing from the picturesque landscapes of California. With over a decade of experience capturing love stories across all of California—from Redding & Tahoe, Wine Country to the stunning coasts of Monterey, and down to Southern California, Diane brings a unique touch to every frame she captures.
Diane’s style combines gentle and candid moments effortlessly, ensuring that your wedding day and guests’ experiences are beautifully preserved. Through her lens, she weaves together the emotions and memories that make your special day truly unforgettable.
Couples often praise Diane for her positive attitude and how she seamlessly becomes a person who feels like a friend they’ve known forever. Her passion lies in preserving moments and details, whether they’re perfectly composed or imperfectly candid, big or small so that everyone can look back and relish them once again—trust her to craft your wedding into a timeless story.
Lauren Long is a talented wedding and elopement photographer from sunny San Diego who’s on a mission to provide couples from all walks of life with unforgettable photography experiences that transcend geographical boundaries. Whether you’re eloping in San Diego or planning a wedding in the romantic landscapes of Italy, Lauren is here to amp up your excitement and help you celebrate in a way that’s authentic to you. She’ll encourage you to savor that champagne and won’t stop cheering you on until you’ve had the time of your life.
With a degree in hospitality and a diverse background in service and the wedding industry, Lauren isn’t just a photographer; she’s a storyteller who captures the essence of every moment with creative finesse. Her portfolio is a testament to her versatility, showcasing her ability to adapt to the energy and desires of her subjects, ensuring that each couple’s true essence shines through her lens. In Lauren, you’ll discover a photographer who freezes moments in time and paints a vivid picture of your love story, making every frame a lasting testament to the unique bond you share.
Kelly Brown is an exceptional wedding and lifestyle photographer with over a decade of experience capturing people’s stories. Drawing from her background in photojournalism and a love for editorial photography, Kelly brings a natural yet refined approach to her work.
What sets her apart is her ability to use various cameras, both digital and film, to provide a unique perspective for each wedding she documents. Light plays a pivotal role in her photographs, casting a unique, almost weightless atmosphere as if her wedding photos are poised to become postcards conveying the essence of love and genuine emotions.
While Kelly is based in California, she also finds joy in photographing destination weddings. Regardless of the location, her goal is to create timeless, exquisite imagery you’ll treasure for a lifetime.
Amanda Wei‘s journey into the world of photography began with a childhood passion for art. While studying studio art at the University of California, Santa Barbara, she stumbled upon a photography class and instantly felt a connection.
For Amanda, photography is more than just a profession; it’s a way of crafting visual love stories, capturing unspoken emotions and the beauty of love on one of the most important days in people’s lives. She’s not just a wedding photographer; she’s an artist, a storyteller, and a preserver of precious moments. Every moment is precious to her, whether it’s an intense devotion or a giggly camaraderie. She thrives on the emotions and moments that weddings bring, and her photographs beautifully capture the essence of love and human connections.
Her team consists of three talented women – Amanda herself, Rachel, and Eliza. Their work celebrates love, a tribute to the enduring human spirit, and a testament to the profound connections that bind us all. Through their lens, love is transformed into a timeless masterpiece, a cherished memory that will be treasured for generations.
Natasha Gillett is a highly acclaimed luxury wedding and editorial photographer based in San Francisco. Her award-winning photography, renowned for its ability to capture radiant light and beauty, has gained global recognition since 2013.
Photographing exceptional couples and their exquisite weddings at stunning locations worldwide has been a lifelong dream realized for Natasha. With over two decades of experience in front of and behind the lens, Natasha seamlessly blends her expertise in art direction, fashion, and posing into her wedding photography. She believes that exceptional photography arises from the delicate interplay of authenticity, connection, and unwavering confidence. For Natasha, the essence of her craft lies in building genuine relationships with her clients, fostering an atmosphere of comfort and unwavering self-assurance, and thereby unveiling their most authentic selves and beauty for the camera.
Natasha’s work is characterized by her distinctive approach, which strongly emphasizes capturing luminous light and beauty. She is dedicated to creating an environment where every client feels like the true star of their story. Her portfolio includes features in prestigious publications such as Vogue, Harper’s Bazaar, RF Rangefinder, Carats and Cake, Time Out Magazine, and many more.
Carol Oliva, an accomplished editorial wedding and elopement photographer, brings over 20 years of experience to create a visual narrative that beautifully captures the depth of your emotions. She genuinely loves those real, unfiltered moments but is equally adept at offering gentle guidance when needed, ensuring a natural and heartfelt quality to her work. She also cherishes those in-between moments and celebrates artfully-crafted ones.
Carol’s signature style harmonizes with the natural beauty of California and Oahu, embracing the elements of water, nature, and the mesmerizing hues of sunsets. As a surfer and an ocean enthusiast, she finds immense joy in capturing those raw, salty moments, whether beside the water or beneath the waves. Whether you’re planning an intimate elopement or a grand celebration, Carol’s passion for documenting love stories shines through. She is ideal for couples who are deeply in love and seeking romantic, authentic, and timeless imagery.
Carol’s work has garnered recognition, featuring in esteemed publications like Green Wedding Shoes, Martha Stewart Weddings, and more. Her recent honor at the Best of the Best Junebug Engagement Photo Contest 2023 is a testament to her unwavering commitment to capturing the essence of love.
Radostina Boseva hails from the coastal town of Varna, Bulgaria, where she spent her formative years. Following the completion of her Master’s degree in Art, she embarked on a journey that led her to the Czech Republic, delving into graphic design, styling, and art direction. It was amidst this Czech adventure that her fervor for analog film photography was ignited. Today, Radostina is an award-winning wedding and portrait photographer, and she resides in San Francisco with her husband, Martin, and their English bulldog, Fuji.
Radostina’s creative vision is deeply rooted in her Eastern European heritage and her profound appreciation for the past. Her photography style is timeless, marked by a penchant for simplicity and minimalism, expertly intertwined with an artistic exploration of clean lines and the eloquent use of negative space. With a preference for neutral tones, her work exudes an organic quality, with hints of romanticism and modernism coming together in a harmonious blend. As a film editorial photographer, Radostina is dedicated to crafting imaginative and artistic experiences for all her clients.
Bailey Ann is a Los Angeles-based wedding photographer whose lens knows no bounds, extending her services wherever your love story unfolds. With an unfiltered, authentic, and cinematic style, Bailey Ann’s days are spent immortalizing moments that have the power to make time stand still, provoke smiles, and beg the clock to slow its relentless march. What sets her apart is her unwavering dedication to ensuring her couples feel comfortable and entirely at ease, fostering an atmosphere where fun and authenticity flourish. Bailey Ann considers it a profound privilege to witness and capture the pinnacle of someone’s life unfolding right before her eyes, transforming these moments into works of art.
Her mission is to document memories, preserving the very essence of fleeting moments that will never grace our lives again. Bailey Ann is wholeheartedly committed to capturing your unique story, love, and vision while embracing and immortalizing those authentic, heartfelt moments that seem to transcend the boundaries of reality. Her naturally exquisite images serve as a poignant reminder that the greatest joys can be found in life’s simplest moments spent together.
Meet Rachel Fosbenner, a passionate destination wedding film & digital photographer who calls Laguna Beach home but travels the US to capture people in the beautiful act of choosing each other. For Rachel, traveling and continually meeting new people is the most fulfilling and enjoyable way to spend her twenties.
Her inspiration for photography can be traced back to the enduring love story of her grandparents, who became her very first subjects to photograph. Rachel’s art revolves around freeze-framed moments in life as we know it, and few things make her heart beat faster than the beauty of human connections. Her couples feel an immediate connection with her and often treat her like an old friend, establishing a deep bond.
Rachel says she can’t give you forever with the people who weave together the framework of our lives, but she can give you the next best thing. Through her lens, she captures a small piece of what it feels like to be truly known and loved, transforming these emotions into tangible memories that can be cherished. Even years later, when the moment has passed, and the sharp edges of memory have softened, these photographs remain a testament to those powerful feelings.
Christina McNeill is a skilled, candid wedding photographer for couples who want something just a little bit different. Her journey into photography was influenced by a deep-seated family tradition of capturing life’s moments in candid, heartfelt ways. Surrounded by cameras from a young age, Christina’s grandfather instilled in her the importance of preserving memories through photography. He showed her how these simple, unposed moments could express the essence of life itself. It instilled in Christina a profound respect for her heritage and the value of preserving legacies.
Today, Christina’s work reflects her love for people. Christina invests herself in every client through deep conversation and thoughtful questions. She’s a photographer who draws inspiration from life’s energy, connecting with the human emotions. She has a unique talent for capturing those fleeting, magical split-second feelings that become unforgettable memories.
Christina’s discerning eye and signature style result in works of art that are visual stories. Her mastery of film photography, coupled with her technical expertise, allows her to craft simultaneously timeless and modern images. They possess a playful yet deeply emotional quality. Each photograph has a distinct personality, with a subtle touch of nostalgia that lingers in the viewer’s memory. Her photographs are not just pictures; they are profound and enduring moments frozen in time.
