Any photographer (or influencer!) knows that a spectacular backdrop can make a photo. In our day of picture-sharing, an eye-catching locale is in high demand. Luckily for engaged couples out there, Santa Barbara is chock-full of gorgeous, varied, and unique locations. Whether you’re grabbing some golden-hour goodness for your “first look” or planning a day-long photoshoot of your private elopement (all the rage this year), you’re sure to find what you’re looking for. Grab your sweetheart—and your photographer—and dive into our curated list of some of SB’s most Instagram-worthy spots!

Santa Barbara Historical Museum

An amazing indoor/outdoor experience (outdoors only for now, due to COVID-19) steeped in… well… history! The museum is an amazing backdrop for those looking for something beyond a vintage feel. Maybe you’re hosting themed nuptials and desire a medieval photo or two? Perhaps the old Spanish architecture appeals to your photographer? Or maybe you just want a natural shot in the lush courtyard—the space is yours (and it’s free!) Contact the Venue Coordinator prior to scheduling a professional shoot.

Photo credit: Anna Delores Photography

Santa Claus Beach

Santa Barbara is a coastal mecca—you didn’t think we’d make a list without a beach option, did you? Photo options on Santa Claus Beach (off Santa Claus Lane in Carpinteria) are plentiful: close-ups against the ocean, playful pics in the sand, even throwback shots in front of the train tracks (be careful—they’re still operational). There’s ample vegetation (as well as quaint shopping and events) surrounding the sprawling, sandy beach. An hour-long session will fly by, and you don’t have to venture to a second location; everything’s right here!

Photo Credit: Kristen Booth

Painted Cave Road

Just off Highway 154 in the mountains overlooking Santa Barbara sits a scenic lil’ drive. The rolling hills will create a whimsical feel for your wedding photos—and the wind is sure to give you that “supermodel” look. There are a ton of spots to pull over and snap pics on your way to the Chumash Painted Cave State Historic Park (say that five times fast) where you’ll find the painted caves themselves! An adventure and a photoshoot, all rolled into one.

Photo credit: Blue Llama Studio

Santa Barbara’s Chromatic Gate

Let’s get groovy, shall we? Santa Barbara’s Chromatic Gate (designed by renowned artist Herbert Bayer) is a big draw for tourists. This is an excellent spot if you’re looking to grab a photo with people in the background (for that “you’re-the-only-one-I-see” aesthetic) and play with color/retro vibes. The gate is located in a spacious park adjacent to luxury hotels—it’s a great, quick-travel option for you and your guests if you’re staying in the area!

Photo credit: Cherise

(Outside) Lucky Penny Restaurant

The wall outside the fun & funky Lucky Penny restaurant (wood-fired pizzas after the shoot, anyone?) is bedecked with over 15,000 pennies—it’s a sight to behold. It took a group of high schoolers (right on, kids!) about six months to complete the wall, and it’s now a lesser-known favorite of influencers in the area. The wall is an excellent backdrop for tighter shots and “how lucky are we” puns.

Photo credit: Anthony Mark Hankins

Douglas Family Preserve/Arroyo Burro Beach

The great outdoors, indeed! This luscious 70-acre park is an ideal locale for the nature-loving couples out there. Pick your poison: ample fields of greenery/flowers, moody enclaves of coastal trees, or ocean-side bluffs with views of the glittering Pacific. You really can’t go wrong here. The Douglas Preserve is a popular photo, hike, dog-walking, and even proposal destination (see Erika and Mitchell below) in Santa Barbara.

Photo credit: Anna Delores Photography

Santa Barbara Museum of Natural History Sea Center

Float on over to Stearn’s Wharf for a one-of-a-kind backdrop. Ocean lovers: this is the spot for you! The wharf features ample dock space and amazing views out to sea (and back to land), as well as access to the Sea Center for a small fee. Relive childhood memories of school trips to mind-expanding locations before your photoshoot. If you’re a local, consider grabbing a membership to the museum to support the preservation of natural-world knowledge! ($15 for non-member adults)

Photo credit: Rewind Photography

Ganna Walska Lotusland

If you’re looking for whimsy, look no further. Lotusland in Montecito is a breathtaking botanical garden fit for royalty. With 23 separate gardens to explore—including a desert-inspired site, an English hedge maze, and a Japanese tea garden (below)—you and your photographer will easily find your fairytale. Entrance isn’t free (tours are scheduled for particular times; $50 for adults), but the price is worth the scenery.

Photo Credit: Jack Coyer

By: Megan Simpson