San Diego Engagement photos with skyline views + historic charm! The perfect mix of San Diego and California style.

Starting with some backstory first! So originally this couple wanted a very “San Diego” engagement session in Little Italy after eloping at the courthouse earlier in the day. We had planned on them eating pizza at a cafe (it probably would have ended up being out on a curb in the street because I had a VISION) and then just walking around downtown until sunset. That was the plan… until we realized it was Padres game day

If you’re local, you already know—game day in downtown San Diego means crowds, parties, and fans everywhere… fun? YES! But not the easiest setup for relaxed, romantic engagement photos without being yelled “congratulations” every two seconds by a fan who may have partied a litttttle too hard! While you’re here if you need to check the game day schedule for your Downtown San Diego Engagement session heres the link!

Plan B! – THE cutest historic neighborhood!

Anyway, back to the story! I had to pivot and find a new spot for this session!

A few days before their engagement session, I went location scouting and remembered this gorgeous San Diego neighborhood I had visited in the past. I headed over, took some photos and videos, and sent them to the couple—they loved it! The idea of walking around this quiet, historic neighborhood (with San Diego skyline views) totally fit their vision for fun, candid engagement photos.

I’ll add some of my “location scouting” photos below so you can see what I sent to the couple before their session and you can compare them to the photos we ended up taking!

San Diego Engagement Sessions

If you’re looking for San Diego engagement photo locations that are unique, romantic, and not totally overrun with people, I’m your girl! I know some great little places and can make even the simplest of spots look magical! It’s one of the reasons I love being a San Diego wedding photographer—there’s always a new corner of the city to explore.

And you’re in for a treat, because (imo) these turned out SO GOOD!!

Want to see another beautiful engagement session?
Check out this dreamy Carlsbad Cliffs engagement session with all the golden hour beachy vibes!

Ready to plan your own San Diego engagement session?
Reach out here and let’s start planning your perfect day—I’d love to help you find the right spot and capture all the magic.