16 Sonoma County Spots for Gorgeous Engagement and Wedding Photos

We reached out to a few local photographers to ask which Sonoma County spots are the best locations for wedding or engagement shots. Whether you’d like to use the natural beauty of the Sonoma Coast as your backdrop or you prefer some romantic vineyard scenery, there’s no reason your photos with your partner shouldn’t be just as special as your relationship.

Paradise Ridge Winery

This romantic and scenic winery in Santa Rosa offers panoramic Wine Country views.

The iconic “LOVE” sign at Paradise Ridge Winery is a perfect backdrop for photos of the happy couple or the whole wedding party. 

Jack London State Park

Popular for hiking, horseback riding and other outdoor activities, this historic ranch in Glen Ellen has the whole Sonoma County package: Rolling hills, lush forests, beautiful vineyards and life-changing sunsets.

The Russian River

Who doesn’t love the Russian River? While we’d normally opt for a day of tubing or splashing around, why not make this Sonoma County favorite the location for your wedding photos? You can opt for an on-the-water shot, or there are plenty of photo locations on land and in the sand, as well.

Shell Beach Meadows

This coastal spot in The Sea Ranch features gorgeous lookouts over the Pacific Ocean. Shell Beach Trail is one of six public access trails in The Sea Ranch, all of which offer beautiful locations for an engagement of wedding photoshoot.

Petaluma Parking Garage

Drive up to the top of a parking garage in Petaluma around sunset for golden views of the downtown buildings and hills in the distance. Try the Keller Street Parking Garage or Theatre District for unique urban photos with a touch of color from the scenery behind you.

Trentadue Winery

Another winery with gorgeous landscaping is Trentadue Winery. Whether you’re kissing your honey in between the grapevines or posing in front of the Italian-inspired winery estate, you can’t go wrong at this Geyserville winery.

Saint Colman’s Outdoor Catholic Church

Surrounded by redwoods, this outdoor church in Cazadero is available as a wedding venue. The tall trees and outdoorsy feel are perfect for nature-lovers who want an intimate wedding and photos. 

St. Francis Winery

A stunning patio, lush landscaping and an expansive outdoor area complement the natural beauty of Sonoma County at this Santa Rosa winery. 

Vine Hill House

This event venue is located on the O’Connell Vineyards and Apple Orchard Estate in Sebastopol and is giving us all of the Wine Country vibes elevated by lush greenery. 

Timber Cove Resort

Visit this luxurious hotel on the Pacific Coast for a dramatic backdrop for your wedding photos. The rustic resort is set on 23 acres, with panoramic views of the ocean and the nearby majestic redwoods. Toast to a successful photoshoot with a glass of wine at the hotel restaurant, Coast Kitchen.

Beltane Ranch

With rolling hills in the background and gorgeous gardens, this Wine Country ranch in Glen Ellen sets the scene for a bucolic photoshoot with you and your beloved.

Olympia’s Valley Estate

If you’re looking for a rustic farm feel for your wedding photos, this outdoor venue in Petaluma is the perfect match for you. 

Bodega Head

Visit Bodega Head for panoramic views of the Sonoma Coast. The earthy hues of the promontory create a gorgeous backdrop for any couple. You can opt for snapping pictures at the top of the cliffs or head down to the sandy coves to walk close to the waves crashing on the shore (just remember to be careful). 

Downtown Occidental

Engagement photos taken outside the Occidental Lodge give the perfect mix of urban and natural vibes. This Sonoma County town is complete with tall trees, old buildings and more interesting backdrops to explore with your photographer.

Healdsburg Plaza

Complete with a gazebo, the Healdsburg Plaza is an adorable location for photos. You can’t get much more Sonoma County than this spot. 

Sugarloaf Ridge State Park

This park contains the headwaters of Sonoma Creek and features a 25-foot waterfall after winter rains. There are also 25 miles of trails available to explore for photo spots. 

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Written by Grace Yarrow