Laguna Hills Civic Center
A Laguna Hills Civic Center wedding is perfect for couples looking for an intimate civil ceremony or an Orange County elopement. Laguna Hills Civic Center photos feel more modern than the Old Courthouse wedding pics. Ceremonies will be performed by a Deputy Commissioner of Marriage from the County Clerks' office. Make sure your witness or guests are on time as the vow exchange is around 5-7 minutes long. There is plenty of time to take photos after the ceremony. Get more details about our Orange County wedding photographer services.
Laguna Hills Civic Center Location: Right of the 5 Freeway 24031 El Toro Rd, Laguna Hills, CA 92653
Hours of operation: Monday-Friday 9 am-4:30 pm
Phone #: (714) 834-2500
Parking: Onsite. Free. Easy and plenty of spots.

Laguna Hills Civic Center Marriage
A Laguna Hills Courthouse Wedding is perfect for couples looking for an intimate civil ceremony. This location is conveniently located off the 5 Freeway in Orange County.

What to expect from a civil ceremony
- The ceremony is 5-7 minutes
- You will be appointed a Deputy Commissioner of Marriage from the County Clerks' office.
- Vows are provided by the County Clerks office. The department is limited to a set of vows that the Orange County Board of Supervisors has approved.
- Ceremonies are held inside the ceremony room. It can accommodate up to 10-15 guests. Mostly standing room only.
- Outdoor ceremonies are held in front of the water fountain or on the beautifully manicured lawn.

Can I get married on a Saturday?
Yes, you can have your wedding on a Saturday. However, the three main branches that perform civil ceremonies are only open one Saturday a month. Appointments are available for marriage licenses and ceremonies. Or you can walk in on a first come first serve basis. For more information on how to get a marriage license visit our blog. Be sure to check OCRecorder.com for any changes or updates due to Covid-19.
For more information, please call the information line, Monday - Friday, from 8 a.m. to 4:30 p.m.
OC Clerk-Recorder Department Information Line
(714) 834-2500

Second locations after civil ceremony
Choosing a second location for wedding portraits is a beautiful way to document your special day. We recommend planning this ahead of time with your photographer.
Some of our favorite locations near Laguna Hills Civic Center are:
- Laguna Beach
- Lido Island
- The Mission San Juan Capistrano
- Local parks
What's near by the civic center

How can I make my elopement special?
- Bridal Gown: Wear a special dress. It doesn't have to be white.
- Hair and makeup: Be sure to pamper yourself and look your best for your wedding.
- Flowers: This is always a nice touch. Flowers make photos look special and add color.
- Groom's attire: Be sure to dress nicely. Buying a new suit is a good idea.
- Photographer: Hire a professional photographer to document the ceremony.
- Romantic portrait session: Choose a location after the ceremony for romantic portraits. After the ceremony, we take photos around the civic center. In addition, we recommend a second location nearby. Laguna Beach or Mission San Juan are nice places for portraits.
- Wedding Guests/Witnesses: Invite close family or friends to attend your union. Most couples invite 5-15 guests.
- Celebrate with a meal: After the ceremony invite guests to lunch or dinner. Continue the celebration at a local restaurant.
- Champagne: Nothing says congratulations like a toast to the newlyweds with champagne.
- Cake: Always a great idea. Treat yourselves to a special cake to share with guests.

Mid-week elopement packages
Mid-Week Packages start at $795 and include:
- Up to 2 hours of photography coverage at one location.
- Photo session in and around the Civic Center after the ceremony
- 30-50 beautiful images included
- Online gallery of images delivered within 5 business days or sooner.
Add-ons:
- Custom Hand-made Italian wedding album.
- Add a second location for wedding portraits in Orange County additional $300.
Meet Christopher Todd – Your Trusted 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, specializing in headshots, family portraits, weddings, and events. My deep local knowledge helps me guide clients to the perfect locations—whether it’s a hidden coastal gem in Laguna Beach, a sunlit park in Irvine, or an iconic spot like the Huntington Beach Pier.
To make planning your session even easier, I’ve put together my Top 10 Outdoor Family Portrait Locations in Orange County guide. If you're looking for an experienced, passionate photographer who truly knows OC, let’s connect! Contact me today.
Schedule Call
Book your free call today. Use the link below to schedule a quick call so that I can learn more about you, answer all of your questions, and help you start planning your headshot session.
Easy Photo Session
Relax! I will coach you through the process so you feel and look your best, including posing, facial expression, and expert guidance throughout our time together.
Fast Delivery
I will have your images ready within 24 hours. So you can pick your favorites and have your online profile updated quickly.
FAQs
Who needs a headshot?
Anyone with a business or online presence will benefit from a professional headshot. This includes professionals, actors, realtors, doctors, and many other professions. Headshots are also oftentimes used for online dating and social media profiles.
How much do professional headshots cost?
Professional headshots can vary in cost. Keep in mind a session fee is separate from the cost of retouching photos and buying individual digital images. Our Session fees start at $249 for a studio session and $399 for an on-location in Orange County. We also offer group rates. Be sure to ask about headshot promotions.
What should I wear?
Deciding on what to wear for your headshot should be based on your industry. You want to look professional for your profile photo. A general rule of thumb to go by is to avoid busy loud patterns. Stay with neutral solid colors. Avoid wearing bright colors like red, yellow, and purple. In addition, I don’t recommend large clunky jewelry this can be distracting, taking the focus off you.
How should I prepare for professional headshots?
At this point you probably realize a DIY headshot is not for you including a a virtual headshot. So to prepare for your in-person session begin with why you need professional portraits. Think about your industry when deciding on what to wear and when deciding on your background option. Headshots should be taken with a simple background. After we set a date and location for your session you must decide on what outfits you want to wear. If you are having a hard time choosing, bring your favorite outfits in and I will help you decide on the best looks. Stay well hydrated and get plenty of rest the night before. Make sure your clothes are well-pressed and wrinkle-free.
What’s the difference between a studio session and an environmental session?
Studio photography is taken indoors in a controlled environment. This means I have full control of the lighting and there are no outdoor elements to get in the way like wind, bright sun, rain, etc. An environmental session is taken at a specific location usually outdoors in a park, nature setting, downtown, or outside your office building often using natural light. When I come to you I still have control of the lightning and do not depend solely on natural light. I bring my mobile studio to you. We discuss your headshot background and the pros and cons of a busy background and a simple white background. Another option for corporate headshots is at your office. This is very popular for businesses with many employees.
What if I'm not photogenic or hate getting my photo taken? Can you make me look good?
I hear this often from clients. The answer is yes I can make you look good in your photo. I believe when you are guided and coached properly throughout your session the photos come out great. We want your photo session to be stress-free and relaxing. I want you to get the perfect headshot. That is why we offer business portrait tips, including the best backdrop option, posing tips such as body language, and whether you should have a natural smile, a slight smile, or a genuine smile.
Do you require payment in advance to book my session?
To secure your session I require a non-refundable session fee of $250 for studio or $399 for outdoor headshots.
How do I pose for professional headshots?
We are experts in facial expression and posing. Think of your headshot session as a guided experience. Arms crossed headshot can be good for some industries if done correctly. Along with a neutral expression. However, you should look friendly, confident, and approachable. Therefore, I recommend choosing a headshot with a genuine smile and friendly body language. With the right guide, you will get amazing headshots in minutes.
How many outfit changes are allowed?
Depending on which package you choose. 2-3 outfits are usually sufficient. Be sure your outfits are pressed and ironed before your session.
How long does it take to receive my photos?
I understand how important it is to get your photos back in a timely manner. Our turnaround time is 1-3 business days. This allows us time to edit or decide which images are best, and color correct the photos you purchase. I do offer a rush 24-hour delivery for an additional fee.
How many photos will I get?
Images must be purchased a la carte after your session. No images are included with your session fee. Images are priced on a sliding scale and include retouching.
Can I see photos during our session?
Absolutely. I like to show you what I am taking usually at the start of the session. This helps you see and feel confident in what we are creating.
Will you retouch images from our session?
Yes, I retouch the images you choose to keep. I do not retouch every photo. However, when you purchase additional files I retouch those photos. If you buy out all the files I do not retouch every image. One retouched headshot is included in the price. The editing process will be professional and not overly retouched for a more natural authentic look. However, reasonable requests can be met.
What are professional headshots?
Professional headshots are close-up portraits of a person taken by an experienced photographer with a professional camera and lighting equipment. The purpose of the photo can be used for profiles, social media, websites, and other marketing material.
How long will my headshot take?
Sessions usually last 30-60 minutes long. If we get the perfect photo in 30 minutes great. If it takes longer then we take more time till we get the right shot.
Do you offer hair and makeup services?
Yes, and I highly recommend it. When you look and feel good your portraits directly reflect this. I can arrange for a makeup artist and hairstylist to come to the studio at an additional cost, or you can have this arranged with your favorite stylist.
Do you have a portrait studio?
Yes I have a portrait studio set up for individuals looking for professional images. However, 95% of our clients want a more natural look or prefer we come to them. That said I have pre-arranged blocks of studio time for my clients so if you would like to be photographed in a studio I can easily arrange it.
How do you deliver my photos?
Photos are sold as digital images and can be viewed and delivered through our private online gallery. After you select your favorite images they are delivered digitally via download.
Do you only photograph headshots?
No, I don’t just photograph headshots. Christopher Todd Studios is a full-service photography studio. I offer family portraits, engagement sessions, and special event coverage. Including, weddings, corporate, and private events. I also specialize in branding photography.
Do you offer group rates?
Yes, we offer group rates. The first headshot is $399 each additional person is $75 up to 12 people. Get in touch for special pricing for groups larger than 12 people.