A Scenic Engagement Session at the “Top of the World” in Laguna Beach
Nothing quite compares to the golden hour light during a Top of the World engagement session high above Laguna Beach. After eloping at the courthouse, the plan was for this couple to get some engagement photos done so they could announce their elopement! But first! If you haven’t already read Part 1 of their story explaining why they did this a bit out of order, make sure to do that here!
Location Info and Tips!
The “Top Of The World” is a beautiful set of trails and vistas located in Alta Laguna Park. Since it sits just twenty minutes from the Laguna Hills Civic Center, I knew this would be an absolutely perfect spot for their engagement session.
Situated high above a residential neighborhood, this spot truly does feel like the “top of the world.” There are winding trails that take you through rolling hills and chaparral, and the sweeping views of the Pacific Ocean are breathtaking from every vantage point. It’s truly a magical and hopelessly romantic location (particularly at sunset!).
Watch Out for Crowds
If you’re thinking of having an engagement session at the Top Of The World in Laguna Beach, I highly recommend thinking in advance about the crowds. We went at sunset which is usually a popular time, BUT since it was a weekday in October we luckily were able to find lots of spots on the trails that felt more private and out of the way.
Consider a Sunrise or Midweek Session
Another option for fewer crowds (and my personal favorite time for sessions) is to go at sunrise. Even if you’re not an early bird, I highly suggest making a one time exception. Southern California is a super populated place to be and there are very few instances when you can have a place all to yourselves…except at sunrise. At sunrise, even the most crowded spots in the region will be completely (or very nearly) empty.
And if you can’t make it at sunrise for an engagement session at Top of the World, then I highly recommend going at sunset on a weekday and finding a trail with a little less foot traffic. Trust me, having a little space to yourselves where you can feel free to let loose a bit will make all the difference in your photos!
Practical Tips For Planning a Top of the World Engagement Session
Also, I would be remiss if I didn’t share a few other key practical tips to consider before heading up to Top of the World for your engagement session!
What To Wear
My biggest piece of advice that I give to all of my clients: wear something that feels like you and most of all is comfortable. If you’re wearing clothing that doesn’t fit quite right, is uncomfortable, or you’re afraid will move out of place, it WILL show on your face in your photos. Make sure to consider the terrain and think about if you would realistically be comfortable wearing your outfit on the trail while you’re walking, moving around a ton, and having the wind pick up around you!
Thoughtful Footwear
The trails are dirt and gravel with some uneven terrain. I always recommend wearing shoes that are both safe and comfortable for a location like this. Think low heeled boots and cute sneakers that you can pair with an outfit. It’s just no fun wrenching an ankle or tripping and eating gravel during your session.
Parking Logistics
There is a dedicated parking lot at Alta Laguna Park as well as street parking along Alta Laguna Boulevard. Since it was midweek, we didn’t have an issue finding a spot, but if you’re going on a weekend, make sure to budget time for parking!
Coastal Weather
Being high on the ridge means you get incredible breezes, but it can also mean that it’s much colder than the streets below depending on the time of year. If you’re going in the Fall, Winter, or early Spring months make sure to bring a jacket!
This Couple’s Engagement Session Story
We arrived just before golden hour and began making our way over to some of the vistas that are a little more off the beaten path. I put on some music (fun fact: I make a custom playlist for each couple and I play it during their session!) and immediately these two started dancing and goofing around with each other. Like I said in part one of their story, these two have such a strong connection and they just truly enjoy being in each other’s company.
I loved being able to talk with them like they were old friends even though we had just met in person for the first time that day. They were warm, welcoming, and just down to have a fun time. My kind of people.
As the sun began to set, we made our way up to the highest point of the trail to get in some last photos with the golden light. A storm had just passed through a couple days before, so the skies were wide open and the views from the very top were STUNNING.
On my way home, I pulled off to the side of the road and just sat on a bench overlooking the beach. I was soaking in the last remaining light of the sunset and reflecting on how grateful I was to be a part of this day and get to do this job that I love so much.
This Top Of The World engagement session was such a wonderful time and something I will cherish for a long time.
Thinking about doing an engagement session at the Top of The World? I’d love nothing more than to chat with you about your ideas and vision! Head on over to my contact page and let’s make it happen!
Add comment