Odds are that if you grew up in Orange County you probably did a field trip to Mission San Juan Capistrano. Now as adults, Kirby and Ryan wanted to take their engagement photos against the towering ruins, exposed brick walls, and arches. Thankfully, it stopped raining just before they arrived! This is perhaps our favorite location to shoot engagement pictures as there are so many unique features and history to this location that you don’t find in any other location in Orange County or Los Angeles. 

This beautiful Spanish Mission was founded on November 1, 1776 by Junipero Serra. Some of the reasons we love this location is there so many unique features. As you walk the historic hallways, the bricks on the walls make for really great backdrops to your engagement photos. The architecture is also amazing with its archways and the water fountain; all make for unique backdrops that you cannot get anywhere else. But one of the most unique features is the Bell Wall, also known as Campanario. The is where the four bells sit on the tower, and even though only two of the original bells still work to this day, the details of the bells will make your photos simply pop with an amazing story to be told.

But with anything, there are a few restrictions in having your photo session at the Mission, but nothing that cannot be overcome. First, we need to schedule an appointment with the Mission in advance as they only allow a certain number of photographers shooting photos at the same time on the property. Their hours may differ depending on the time of year and they do require an hourly permit fee. Plus, aerial shots are not permitted and because it is church grounds, clothing attire must be appropriate.

Want to book your engagement photos at Mission San Juan Capistrano? 

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