Where to Find a Forest for Your Engagement Session in the Heart of Los Angeles?
When couples dream of a romantic engagement session surrounded by towering trees and dappled sunlight, they often assume they’ll have to travel hours outside the city to find the perfect forest setting. But what if I told you that you can have those dreamy, woodsy vibes without ever leaving Los Angeles?
Griffith Park is one of LA’s most popular spots for both locals and tourists. Most people visit the Observatory and stop there, but the park is HUGE. You could spend days — even months — exploring its trails, hidden corners, and amazing views. This is how I found this hidden forest.
Cedar Grove is the best for couples who love nature but don’t want to venture too far.
Nestled in the heart of the city, this hidden gem offers a peaceful escape with a beautiful backdrop of tall cedars, soft forest floors, and golden light filtering through the trees. It’s the perfect location for an elopement-style engagement session, bringing a sense of adventure and intimacy without the long drive to the mountains.
Why Cedar Grove is Perfect for Your Engagement Session?
As an outdoor wedding and engagement photographer based in Los Angeles, I’m always on the lookout for unique locations that offer both stunning scenery and easy accessibility. While California is full of breathtaking spots, from Yosemite’s majestic cliffs to Big Sur’s rugged coastline, these locations can take hours to reach. If you want a forest engagement session but prefer to stay closer to home, Cedar Grove offers the best of both worlds.
It feels like an escape
The towering trees and secluded feel make it easy to forget you’re still in LA.
Golden hour magic
The way the light filters through the trees here is absolutely stunning, adding a dreamy glow to your photos.
It feels like adventure
It’s a chance to connect with nature, explore a new place, and enjoy a peaceful walk together. The journey itself helps you relax, and feel completely at ease in front of the camera.
Convenience and accessibility
Unlike remote forest locations, Cedar Grove is easy to access, making it perfect for couples with busy schedules.
Planning Your Cedar Grove Engagement Session
If you’re envisioning an intimate, nature-inspired engagement session, Cedar Grove is an incredible choice. Here are a few tips to make the most of your shoot:
Time it right — Golden hour (just before sunset) brings the most beautiful, soft lighting.
Dress for the setting — Flowy dresses, neutral tones, and earthy colors complement the natural surroundings perfectly. Here you can find my full guide “What to Wear for Your Couple’s Photo Session”.
Embrace the adventure — This location invites movement and comfortable shoes—walking through the trails, twirling under the trees, or cozying up on a blanket for more intimate moments.
Los Angeles might not be known for its forests, but hidden spots like Cedar Grove prove that you don’t have to travel far for an enchanting, nature-filled engagement session.
If you’re looking for an engagement photographer who can bring your vision to life, I’d love to help you plan a session that feels like an adventure while capturing your love in the most natural, heartfelt way.
Thinking about a Cedar Grove engagement session?
Hi, I’m Daria — an adventure engagement & elopement photographer based in Los Angeles.
I LOVE capturing people against breathtaking landscapes and truly believe that connecting with nature makes the photography experience so much more than just a session.
I enjoy introducing couples to new places they’ve never been before—most of my couples have never visited the locations I take them to!
Whether it’s an intimate outdoor wedding, a heartfelt elopement, or a romantic session in nature, I’m here to create timeless memories in stunning settings.
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