MENU

Rancho Santa Fe Wedding Photographer
Classic Photography for the Contemporary Couple

Welcome!
Thanks for stopping by! My name is John Schnack and I've been a Rancho Santa Fe wedding photographer for over 20 years. Rancho Santa Fe is not only one of San Diego's most exclusive communities, it's also one of the best places for a wedding!
Originally developed to grow Eucalyptus trees for use on the Santa Fe Railroad, Rancho Santa Fe has evolved into a relaxing and secluded destination for folks seeking solace and sophistication. With rolling hills, towering trees, and a quaint village, it's no wonder why Rancho Santa Fe is such a popular destination wedding location.
I've had the pleasure of photographing over 400 weddings in my career, many of which have been Rancho Santa Fe. I live 10 minutes from the village, so I know the area very well. There are so many great wedding venues in Rancho Santa Fe, like the Inn at Rancho Santa Fe, Fairbanks Ranch Country Club, and Rancho Valencia Resort & Spa.
If you're looking for a Rancho Santa Fe wedding photographer who specializes in classic, timeless images and puts your needs first, you've come to the right place.
3 Great Reasons to Plan a Rancho Santa Fe Wedding

01
Luxurious Venues
While Rancho Santa Fe isn't known for having a lot of wedding venues, the ones it does have are exceptional. From the quaint and charming Inn at Rancho Santa Fe to the 5-star luxuriousness of Rancho Valencia Resort, Rancho Santa Fe offers everything sophisticated couples want in a wedding venue. As a Rancho Santa Fe wedding photographer, I can tell you first hand how many wonderful photo spots there are at nearly every venue.
Things to do in and around Rancho Santa Fe
+ Secret Car Club
+ The Spa at the Inn
+ Beaches of Del Mar
+ Hiking Torrey Pines Reserve
+ Walks along the horse trails
+ Del Mar Race Track
02
Where Solitude Meets Sophistication
Rancho Santa Fe is as unique a community as you can find. As the sun casts its rays on the surrounding hills and the wind wisps through the leaves of the towering Eucalyptus trees, Rancho Santa Fe harkens back to California's beginnings. At the same time, nearly every shop, restaurant, and wedding venue ooze elegance and sophistication.
Best Rancho Santa Fe Restaurants
+ Mille Fleurs
+ Morada
+ Nick & G's
+ Rancho Santa Fe Bistro
+ Thyme in the Ranch
+ Firenze Trattoria
+ Champagne French Bakery
Hotels in Rancho Santa Fe
03
Close to Other Attractions
Rancho Santa Fe is a quiet, secluded community. And people like it that way. So, if you're looking for a little more excitement and adventure, you'll have to explore the neighboring towns. Fortunately, everything you need is a short drive away. Catch a thoroughbred race at the famous Del Mar Race Track. Hit the beach in Del Mar and follow it up with some dinner and drinks in the Del Mar Plaza. Or, venture to the west and explore the hip beach community of Encinitas. Whatever you desire is a 10-15 minute drive away.
+ The Inn at Rancho Santa Fe
+ Rancho Valencia Resort + Spa
+ Morgan Run Club and Resort
Do you have SPECIFIC questions? Reach Out to us!
The Best Rancho Santa Fe Wedding Venues


Rancho Valencia Resort
Inn at Rancho Santa Fe
For decades, Rancho Valencia Resort has been the premier wedding venue for luxury weddings in Rancho Santa Fe. This 5-star resort has a number of venus accommodating wedding celebrations of any size. With tennis and a luxury spa, this property truly lives up to the "Resort" in its name.
Nestled in the heart of downtown Rancho Santa Fe, the historic Inn at Rancho Santa Fe offers seclusion, sophistication, and rustic charm. With a variety of venues accommodating up to 350 guests, the Inn at Rancho Santa Fe offers everything you need for an intimate ceremony at sunset to a lavish extravaganza.


Morgan Run Club & Resort
Fairbanks Ranch Country Club
Situated in the valley west of downtown Rancho Santa Fe, Morgan Run offers the golf lover everything you need in a wedding venue. With 27 challenging holes, impeccable service and a gorgeous ceremony site, Morgan Run is a wonderfully unique wedding venue in Rancho Santa Fe. They offer a variety of ceremony and reception spaces for up to 300 guests.
If you're looking for one of the best Rancho Santa Fe wedding venues for golf, Fairbanks Country Club should be on your shortlist! Situated in the valley just west of downtown Rancho Santa Fe, Fairbanks Country Club offers seclusion and sophistication for celebrations of any size.

Voices from real couples
“Next Level! John was everything we hoped for in a wedding photographer. Beyond talented, charismatic and easy-going, he made our day stress-free and fun! He was very professional and flexible with our needs. The photos came within weeks of the wedding and they were artistic, editorial and sophisticated — perfect for the sartorial couple we are. We would hire him again in a heartbeat and would strongly recommend his services to anyone.”
-Amanda Y.
How We're Different From Other Rancho Santa Fe Wedding Photographers?

04
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.
06
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 Rancho Santa Fe 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.