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Engagement Photos at The Mission San Juan Capistrano

Some sessions feel like a full-circle moment, and this one absolutely did. When Yung asked me to photograph her engagement session, I felt really honored. We’ve been friends for over a decade, so stepping behind the camera and capturing this milestone in her life wasn’t just an special—it was personal.

We met at one of my all-time favorite venues for engagement photos in Orange County: The Mission in downtown San Juan Capistrano. This place is a dream. Historic arches, textured walls, lush gardens—it all feels like you’ve stepped out of time and into something beautifully sacred.

Why I Love Engagement Photos at The Mission San Juan Capistrano

We booked the earliest timeslot available, which is my go-to tip for anyone planning a session at a popular location. Early morning gives us: the softest, most romantic light and a calm, peaceful setting—before the crowds roll in.

This was my third time photographing at the Mission (once for a cozy family session in the fall, and once years ago for a wedding), and it was just as enchanting as I remembered. There’s something about the way light filters through the archways, the contrast of warm tones and cool shadows—it’s like the space wants to tell a love story.

From Timeless to Playful: A Laguna Beach Adventure

After wrapping up at the Mission, we wanted to chase a second vibe. So we headed down the coast to a trail I love in Laguna Beach—a total shift in scenery and energy. Where the Mission was romantic and timeless, Laguna was vibrant and spontaneous. Golden sun and ocean air—it brought out this joyful, playful side of Yung and Jeremy that balanced our day perfectly.

I always tell my couples: you don’t get to choose the light on your wedding day. That’s why working in different kinds of light—like full sun in the middle of the afternoon—is something I embrace. It stretches me creatively and reminds me that magic isn’t about control, it’s about connection.

Let’s Make Magic in Your Favorite Place

Whether we’re exploring the cliffs or wandering through historic stone corridors, your engagement session should feel like you. Full of laughter, ease, and a little whimsy. Whether you’re in Washington State or Southern California, I’d love to help tell your story in a way that feels deeply personal and cinematic.

And if you’re dreaming of a San Juan Capistrano engagement session, I’ve got you covered. I’ll help with the best times, hidden nooks, and permission tips to make your experience magical from start to finish.

man and woman in black pose at the mission
man and woman in black pose at the mission
man and woman in black pose at the mission
the mission engagement session
man and woman in black pose at the mission
man and woman in black pose at the mission
man and woman in black pose at the mission
man and woman in black pose at the mission
man and woman in black pose at the mission
man and woman in black pose at the mission
man and woman in black pose at the mission
man and woman in black pose at the mission
man and woman in black pose at the mission
man and woman in black pose at the mission
man and woman in black pose at the mission
man and woman in black pose at the mission
man and woman in black pose at the mission
man and woman in black pose at the mission
man and woman in black pose at the mission
man and woman in black pose at the mission
man and woman in black pose at the mission
man and woman in black pose at the mission
man and woman in black pose at the mission
man and woman in black pose at the mission
man and woman in black pose at the mission
man and woman in black pose at the mission
man and woman in black pose at the mission
man and woman in black pose at the mission
man and woman embrace on hillside
man and woman embrace on hillside
man and woman embrace on hillside
man and woman embrace on hillside
man and woman embrace on hillside
man and woman embrace on hillside

Want photos at The Mission at in downtown San Juan Capistrano? Let’s chat!