La Jolla Wedding Photographer
Classic Photography for the Contemporary Couple
Welcome!
Thanks for stopping by! My name is John Schnack and I've been a La Jolla wedding photographer for over 20 years. La Jolla is not only one of San Diego's premier destination locations, it's also one of the best places for a wedding!
La Jolla (pronounced "lah-hoya") means "the jewel" in Spanish, and it's easy to see why. From the crystal clear waters of La Jolla Cove to the iconic golf at Torrey Pines, combined with amazing weather and a host of activities, it's no wonder why hundreds of sophisticated couples get married here every year.
I've had the pleasure of photographing over 400 weddings in my career, many of which have been La Jolla, so I know the area very well. There are so many great wedding venues in La Jolla, like Darlington House, Lodge at Torrey Pines, and La Valencia, just to name a few.
If you're looking for a La Jolla wedding photographer who specializes in classic timeless images and puts your needs first, you've come to the right place.
4 Great Reasons to Get Married in La Jolla
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Breathtaking Beauty at Every Turn
With its unique shoreline, spectacular views, and amazing year-round weather, La Jolla's beauty is unmatched on the Southern California coastline. One of my favorite things to do is to head to the Torrey Pines gliderport at sunset for 180-degree views of La Jolla and the coast. Or, head into the village for some architectural eye candy along Prospect St. or Girard Ave. With this and so much more, it's no wonder why La Jolla is such a popular wedding destination.
Things to do in La Jolla
+ Snorkeling and kayaking in La Jolla Cove
+ Visiting the seals at the Children's Pool
+ Shopping in downtown La Jolla
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Venues for Every Type of Wedding
Not only is La Jolla full of natural beauty, but there's a wedding venue for just about any type of celebration. Looking for a sophisticated venue with amazing views right in the middle of downtown La Jolla? Check out La Valencia. Want something more rustic? Check out Estancia Resort. Love golf? Why not play the iconic Torrey Pines golf course before and after your wedding at the Lodge at Torrey Pines or the Hilton Torrey Pines. Need something quaint for a smaller celebration? Darlington House is one of my favorite venues in La Jolla. So whatever your taste, La Jolla has a wedding venue just for you.
Best La Jolla Restaurants
+ George's at the Cove
+ Brick & Bell
+ The Spot
+ Herringbone
+ Eddie V's
+ Puesto La Jolla
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Lots of Activities for Guests
Hotels in La Jolla
If you're expecting a lot of out-of-town guests, La Jolla's wide variety of recreational activities will keep your guests having fun before and after your wedding! From kayaking in the crystal-clear waters of La Jolla cove to a hike at Torrey Pines Reserve, La Jolla is the ultimate destination wedding location!
+ La Valencia Hotel
+ Hilton La Jolla Torrey Pines
+ Lodge at Torrey Pines
+ Estancia La Jolla
+ Grande Colonial Hotel
+ Cormorant Hotel
+ La Jolla Cove Hotel and Suites
+ La Jolla Shores Hotel
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Convenient to Anywhere in San Diego
La Jolla is located about 20 minutes north of Lindbergh Field, San Diego's international airport, easing your arrival and departure. Feel like exploring a little while you're in town? La Jolla's central location makes it easy to get just about anywhere in San Diego. Take a short drive north to explore the beach communities of Del Mar, Solana Beach, and Encinitas. Head south on the coast and check out the always-popular Pacific, Mission, and Ocean Beaches. Baseball season? It's about a 30-minute drive to Petco Park and downtown San Diego.
Do you have specifc questions? Reach Out to us!
The Best La Jolla Wedding Venues
La Valencia Hotel
Lodge at Torrey Pines
Known to locals and La Jolla photographers as "The Pink Lady", La Valencia Hotel has been a go-to wedding venue for sophisticated couples for nearly a century. Situated high above the Pacific with views for days, La Valencia is truly one of a kind.
Check out my detailed La Valencia Hotel wedding guide!
From the minute you walk through the front doors, the smoke from the wood-burning fireplace and panoramic views overwhelm your senses. For decades, the Lodge at Torrey Pines has epitomized class and sophistication. The natural setting and gorgeous architecture make this venue a La Jolla wedding photographer's dream!
Check out my detailed Lodge at Torrey Pines venue guide!
Hilton Torrey Pines
Darlington House
For those couples who like to dream big, the Hilton Torrey Pines offers everything you need for an extravagant affair. From spacious grand ballrooms to its French-inspired ceremony site, this La Jolla wedding venue is perfect a sophisticated weekend celebration.
Check out my detailed Hilton La Jolla wedding guide!
Situated on a quiet street in downtown La Jolla, Darlington House has long been one of my favorite La Jolla wedding venues. With a quiet charm and amazing built-in decor, this wedding venue is perfect for the low-key couple looking for a venue that truly epitomizes La Jolla.
Check out my detailed Darlington House wedding guide!
Voices from real couples
"John was able to capture every moment. He knew his way around The Lodge and was able to find create the most magical photos out of what seemed like the simplest of backdrops. He went above and beyond to get all of the shots we wanted, while still allowing us to prioritize being with our family and friends. The amount of compliments I received on our wedding photos is truly endless. They are now one of my most cherished possessions."
- Hayley O.
How We're Different From Other La Jolla Wedding Photographers?
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01
Being Ready for the Unexpected
Personal Attention
With a knack for planning and a background in photojournalism, you'll find comfort knowing I'm ready for anything while staying true to your timeline. I'll scout your venue in advance so group photo sessions are quick and painless. And your romantic photos are done efficiently without sacrificing beauty and timelessness.
For over 20 years I've provided couples with an attentive, exclusive wedding photography experience. You'll feel good knowing the same guy who answers the phone when you first call (me) will be the same guy who photographs your wedding (me again).
05
02
Quality Over Quantity
A Focus on Your Needs
I take on a limited number of weddings each year so you receive the level of service and attention you and your wedding deserve.
After all, it's your wedding, not mine, and I care more about your enjoyment of each moment than I do about my ego. I'll take the time to get to know you to find out what's important for you and your partner on your wedding day.
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03
Instant Gratification, Long-Term Enjoyment
An Easygoing Personality
I'm equally comfortable in a pair of Ferragamos or flip-flops. Whether your wedding is a black-tie ballroom bash or a soiree in the sand, you'll relax knowing your photographer isn't a diva and blends in with everyone.
Finally, I combine the flexibility of digital with the power of print. Ever wedding gets sneak-peeks within 48 hours, and the full collection is delivered in 6-8 weeks. Luxurious heirloom albums are designed in-house, so you can enjoy every photo in a curated, heirloom album for decades to come.
What are some La Jolla wedding photographer packages?
Based on my 20+ years of experience having shot over 400 weddings, my pricing begins at 5995. However, most couples spend between 6995-8995 for packages that include an engagement session, rehearsal dinner coverage, extra coverage of the wedding, and an heirloom album.
