How To Get A Photo Permit in Laguna Beach
3 Steps For Getting A Laguna Beach Photo Permit
The coastal community of Laguna Beach in South Orange County is in my opinion the most beautiful location for family portraits in the OC.
As you might expect all the natural beauty lures many a photographer to its shores and trails trying to get the perfect photo.
If you're a professional photographer working with a client such as a Bride & Groom or a family to create some portraits, you are technically required to purchase a professional photo permit from the city of Laguna Beach.
To ensure a smooth photo session with a professional photographer be sure to get a photography permit with the city of Laguna Beach.
Check out our
top 5 favorite beach in Laguna for portraits.
STEP 1.
Choose a location
I always tell families to think about beach access, parking, and if there are public restrooms. I help my clients decide which beach is best for their family and needs. In my opinion, all the beaches in Laguna are beautiful and each offers a unique view.
STEP 2.
Decided on when you want the photos taken
This might seem obvious but it is important to coordinate your calendar with the photographer you hire. Make sure they are available the day you want to book your session before you get your permit. I like to offer my clients the option to arrange the permit for them. I know all the details that need to be filled in and my clients love when I take care of this for them.
STEP 3.
Check the tide chart
Once you have decided on a beach and date and time, before you go any further check the tidal chart. Many beaches are not accessible during high tide. As a result, the city will not grant you a permit. One other thing to keep in mind is the season, summer is very busy in Laguna Beach as well as weekends.
Pro tip: Plan your session midweek before sunset. Fall is a great time to get photos taken. The weather is still nice and the summer crowds have lighter.
Permit Details
Photography Permits In Laguna Beach
Photo Permits are required for professional photography at all Laguna Beach City Beaches. They cost $100 and are good for 2 hours at one pre-selected location. They can be purchased directly from the city of Laguna Beach Photo permit webpage
Ocean Tides In Laguna Beach
Due to the nature of the low and small beaches in Laguna, they are often flooded by high tides and surf. Some beaches completely disappear during higher tides. So it's important to incorporate the tides into your beach photo shoot planning. I use this tide prediction tool from NOAA connected to nearby Balboa to decide on the best times to schedule a photo session on Laguna Beaches. Every beach is different and will handle a tidal level differently, so it's worth it to hire a professional photographer with experience in Laguna to help plan the best location and timing for your family portrait session.
Do I Need To Get A Permit?
A permit is required if:
You have a professional photographer taking portraits on any beach in Laguna. In my experience, there seems to be some grey area with the term "professional photographer". In that most pros don't get permits.
If you ask the city of Laguna Beach they will tell you, that if money is changing hands for photos, then it's professional and you MUST get a permit.
So get a permit or skip it? Well, I like to leave it up to my clients and explain the pros & cons of each scenario.
A permit is NOT required if
You are going to the beach and taking photos for personal use of your family or friends.
What happens if I get caught without a permit?
The State Park Ranger or lifeguard on duty will ask you to stop taking photos and or leave. Possible fines could be incurred.
What Does The Permit Look Like
The Laguna Beach Photo Permit has 2 pages. You can get a PDF Download Here
https://www.lagunabeachcity.net/home/showpublisheddocument/15339/638236565993300000
Bonus Laguna Tip
Gelato Paradiso
It's always tough for me to make it out of Laguna without stopping at Gelato Paradiso for a treat. If you have made your way all over Laguna Beach to my 7 Secret Spots, you should treat yourself to Laguna's best gelato.
What I like:
The gelato is phenomenal. They also have a ridiculous amount of options. Pistachio is my favorite.
Best for:
Someone who can't live without sweets. I get you.
Map to Gelato Paradiso
Parking: Metered Parking on PCH. If you Can't find a spot head to the parking structure on Glenneyre Structure is right behind the Gelatoria. 501 Glenneyre St, Laguna Beach, CA 92651
Crowd factor: Usually a line but it moves pretty quickly. Worth the wait.
Best time of day to go: Anytime
PRO TIP: Waffle Cone 🍦
Meet Christopher Todd: Your Orange County Photographer
Hi, I’m Christopher Todd! I launched
Christopher Todd Studios back in 2000, but my love for photography started long before that.
Born and raised in Orange County, I’ve spent my life exploring this beautiful area. From surfing in Huntington Beach to discovering the best photo spots across the OC. Over the past
25 years as a professional photographer, I’ve continued to learn, grow, and refine my craft.