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The Best Engagement Photoshoot Locations in Humboldt County

Writer's picture: Erin & JakeErin & Jake

Updated: Jul 28, 2024




Humboldt County, California, offers an array of breathtaking landscapes and picturesque settings, making it an ideal destination for engagement photoshoots. From ancient redwood forests to stunning coastal vistas, the diverse natural beauty of this region provides endless possibilities for capturing the magic of your love story. In this comprehensive guide, we'll explore the best engagement photoshoot locations in Humboldt County, ensuring your special moments are framed by the most beautiful backdrops.

1. Redwood National and State Parks

The Majestic Redwoods

No list of Humboldt County photoshoot locations would be complete without mentioning the iconic Redwood National and State Parks. Home to the tallest trees on Earth, these parks offer a magical and serene setting for your engagement photos.

Key Spots within the Parks:

  • Founders Grove: Known for its easily accessible and breathtaking redwoods, Founders Grove is perfect for capturing the awe-inspiring scale of these ancient giants.

  • Lady Bird Johnson Grove: This scenic trail winds through a grove of towering redwoods, providing a lush and tranquil backdrop for your photos.

  • Fern Canyon: A unique and enchanting location, Fern Canyon features walls covered in ferns, creating a lush, green paradise perfect for intimate shots.

Tips for Photoshoots in the Redwoods

  • Timing: Visit early in the morning or late in the afternoon to take advantage of the soft, golden light filtering through the trees.

  • Permits: Check with park authorities to ensure you have the necessary permits for a professional photoshoot.

  • Outfits: Wear colors that contrast with the greenery, such as bold reds, blues, or whites, to make you stand out against the lush background.

2. Trinidad State Beach

Coastal Charm and Dramatic Views

Trinidad State Beach is a hidden gem that combines the beauty of the coastline with the charm of a quaint seaside town. The beach is surrounded by rugged cliffs and offers stunning views of the ocean, making it an idyllic spot for a romantic engagement photoshoot.

Key Spots within the Beach:

  • Elk Head: A scenic overlook with panoramic views of the coastline and offshore rock formations, perfect for dramatic and expansive shots.

  • Trinidad Head: A beautiful hiking trail that offers stunning ocean views and several secluded spots for intimate photos.

  • College Cove: A more secluded beach within Trinidad State Beach, providing a private and peaceful setting for your Humboldt engagement photos.

Tips for Photoshoots at Trinidad State Beach

  • Sunset Shots: Plan your shoot around sunset to capture the stunning colors and soft lighting.

  • Footwear: Wear comfortable shoes for navigating the trails and beach areas.

  • Props: Consider bringing a blanket or picnic setup for cozy, intimate shots on the beach.

3. Patrick's Point State Park

Diverse Landscapes and Stunning Vistas

Patrick's Point State Park offers a variety of landscapes, from dramatic cliffs and ocean views to lush meadows and forests. This park provides numerous picturesque spots for your engagement photos, ensuring a diverse and beautiful album.

Key Spots within the Park:

  • Wedding Rock: As the name suggests, this location is perfect for engagement photos, with panoramic ocean views and the sound of waves crashing below.

  • Agate Beach: A secluded beach with colorful agates and stunning coastal scenery.

  • Patrick’s Point: The park’s namesake offers dramatic cliffs and breathtaking views of the Pacific Ocean.

Tips for Photoshoots at Patrick's Point State Park

  • Weather: Check the weather forecast and be prepared for coastal fog or wind.

  • Clothing: Layer your clothing to stay comfortable in changing temperatures.

  • Permits: Ensure you have any necessary permits for a professional engagement photoshoot in the park.

4. Arcata Community Forest

Tranquil Beauty and Towering Redwoods

The Arcata Community Forest is a beautiful and serene location, offering a variety of scenic spots for your engagement photos. The forest features towering redwoods, lush ferns, and peaceful walking trails, creating a magical and intimate setting.

Key Spots within the Forest:

  • Redwood Grove: A serene and secluded area with towering redwoods and lush greenery, perfect for romantic and intimate shots.

  • Meadow: A picturesque open area with beautiful views of the surrounding forest.

  • Trails: The forest’s network of trails offers a variety of scenic spots for a private and intimate Humboldt engagement photoshoot.

Tips for Photoshoots in Arcata Community Forest

  • Lighting: The dense forest can create low light conditions, so plan your shoot for mid-morning or late afternoon when the light is softer.

  • Outfits: Choose colors that stand out against the green backdrop, such as bold hues or whites.

  • Footwear: Wear comfortable shoes for navigating the forest trails.

5. Humboldt Botanical Gardens

Cultivated Beauty and Vibrant Flowers

For a more cultivated and serene setting, the Humboldt Botanical Gardens offer a beautiful and tranquil location for your Humboldt engagement photos. Located just south of Eureka, the gardens feature a variety of landscapes, from lush meadows to vibrant flower gardens.

Key Spots within the Gardens:

  • Temperate Woodland Garden: A serene spot with a variety of trees and plants, perfect for a quiet and intimate photoshoot.

  • Butterfly House: A charming and colorful location, especially beautiful in the spring and summer months.

  • Ornamental Terrace Garden: A beautifully landscaped area with vibrant flowers and stunning views of the surrounding countryside.

Tips for Photoshoots in Humboldt Botanical Gardens

  • Seasonal Blooms: Plan your shoot around the peak blooming seasons for the most vibrant and colorful photos.

  • Permits: Check with the gardens for any necessary permits for a professional photoshoot.

  • Props: Consider bringing a bouquet or other floral props to complement the garden setting.

6. Sequoia Park Forest & Garden

Urban Forest and Tranquil Gardens

Located in the heart of Eureka, the Sequoia Park Forest & Garden offers a beautiful and accessible location for your Humboldt engagement photos. The park features towering redwoods, lush gardens, and serene walking paths, providing a variety of picturesque spots.

Key Spots within the Park:

  • Redwood Grove: A peaceful and secluded area with towering redwoods and lush greenery, perfect for intimate shots.

  • Duck Pond: A charming spot with a small pond and picturesque surroundings.

  • Gazebo: A lovely and intimate setting, ideal for a romantic humboldt engagement photoshoot.

Tips for Engagement Photoshoots in Sequoia Park Forest & Garden

  • Weekday Shoots: Visit during the week to avoid crowds and have a more private experience.

  • Outfits: Choose colors that complement the natural surroundings, such as earthy tones or pastels.

  • Permits: Ensure you have any necessary permits for a professional photoshoot.

7. Moonstone Beach

Stunning Coastal Views and Unique Rock Formations

Moonstone Beach is a stunning and unique location for your Humboldt engagement photos, offering beautiful views of the coastline, dramatic rock formations, and a serene atmosphere. The beach is especially beautiful at sunset, providing a perfect backdrop for romantic shots.

Key Spots within the Beach:

  • Beach Itself: The wide sandy beach offers plenty of space and stunning views for your photos.

  • Rock Formations: The dramatic rock formations provide a unique and picturesque backdrop.

  • Cliffs: The surrounding cliffs offer beautiful views of the ocean and a secluded spot for intimate shots.

Tips for Engagement Photoshoots at Moonstone Beach

  • Sunset Shoots: Plan your Humboldt engagement photoshoot around sunset for the best lighting and colors.

  • Footwear: Wear comfortable shoes for navigating the sandy and rocky areas.

  • Props: Consider bringing a blanket or picnic setup for cozy, intimate shots.

8. Lost Coast

Rugged and Pristine Wilderness

For couples seeking a truly remote and adventurous Humboldt County engagement photoshoot, the Lost Coast offers a rugged and pristine setting. This untouched stretch of coastline is accessible only by hiking or a challenging drive, but the stunning scenery and solitude make it well worth the effort.

Key Spots within the Lost Coast:

  • Shelter Cove: A small coastal community with dramatic ocean views and rocky beaches, perfect for dramatic and expansive shots.

  • Black Sands Beach: A unique and striking location with black sand and stunning coastal views.

  • Mattole Beach: A secluded and scenic spot at the northern end of the Lost Coast, ideal for a private and intimate photoshoot.

Tips for Photoshoots at the Lost Coast

  • Preparation: Be prepared for a challenging drive or hike to reach these remote locations.

  • Weather: Check the weather forecast and be prepared for coastal fog or wind.

  • Outfits: Wear comfortable and durable clothing suitable for the rugged terrain.

9. Ferndale

Historic Charm and Picturesque Surroundings

Ferndale is a charming and historic town in Humboldt County, known for its beautiful Victorian architecture and picturesque surroundings. The town offers a variety of beautiful spots for your Humboldt engagement photos, from charming gardens to scenic overlooks.

Key Spots in Ferndale:

  • Fern Cottage: A beautiful and historic Victorian home with charming gardens and picturesque surroundings, perfect for romantic and intimate shots.

  • Cemetery: The historic Ferndale Cemetery offers beautiful views of the surrounding countryside and a peaceful and serene setting.

  • Russ Park: A scenic park with beautiful views of the town and surrounding countryside, ideal for a tranquil and intimate photoshoot.

Tips for Photoshoots in Ferndale

  • Architecture: Take advantage of the town’s beautiful Victorian architecture as a backdrop for your photos.

  • Outfits: Choose colors that complement the historic and picturesque surroundings, such as pastels or vintage-inspired outfits.

  • Permits: Check with local authorities for any necessary permits for a professional photoshoot.

10. Humboldt Bay

Scenic Waterfront and Tranquil Views

Humboldt Bay offers a variety of beautiful and unique spots for your engagement photos, from the charming waterfront in Eureka to the scenic and serene spots around the bay. The bay’s calm waters and beautiful surroundings provide a picturesque and tranquil setting for your special moments.

Key Spots around the Bay:

  • Eureka Waterfront: The charming and historic waterfront in Eureka offers a variety of picturesque spots for your photos, including beautiful views of the bay and charming architecture.

  • Samoa Dunes: The scenic dunes and beautiful views of the bay provide a unique and stunning backdrop for your engagement photos.

  • Woodley Island: A small island in the bay with beautiful views and a serene and peaceful atmosphere, perfect for a romantic and intimate photoshoot.

Tips for Photoshoots around Humboldt Bay

  • Lighting: Plan your shoot for early morning or late afternoon to take advantage of the soft, golden light.

  • Outfits: Choose colors that complement the serene and tranquil surroundings, such as soft blues, greens, or neutrals.

  • Props: Consider bringing nautical-themed props or accessories to enhance the waterfront setting.

Humboldt County offers an incredible array of beautiful and unique locations for your engagement photoshoot. From the towering redwoods of the national and state parks to the rugged coastline of the Lost Coast, there’s something for every couple seeking a stunning and unforgettable backdrop for their special moments.

By considering the diverse landscapes and unique features of each location, you can ensure your Humboldt engagement photos capture the essence of your love story in the most beautiful settings. Whether you’re looking for a dramatic coastal view, a serene forest grove, or a charming small town, Humboldt County has it all.

Embrace the beauty and magic of this incredible region, and let your love story unfold in one of the most beautiful places on Earth. Your engagement photoshoot in Humboldt County will be a day to remember, filled with love, laughter, and the stunning natural beauty of Northern California.


engagement photographers in Humboldt County California
Wedding, Engagement and Elopement Photographers and Videographers in Humboldt, Erin Delsigne and Jake Roach.

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