The 2 Best Photography Experiences in Long Beach
Long Beach isn’t just a haven for beaches and lively boardwalks; it’s also a fantastic place to create memorable photos. Its colorful murals, historic piers, and scenic waterfront give photographers (amateurs and pros alike) a wide canvas. Plus, with dedicated local photographers available, you can get professional-quality shots without the hassle of setting up your own camera. Whether you’re celebrating a special occasion or just want stunning images to remember your trip, Long Beach offers some excellent options for capturing your moments.
From personalized private photo sessions to professional shoots with seasoned photographers, these experiences help you avoid awkward selfies and instead focus on natural, beautiful photos. For those looking to elevate their vacation photos, the city’s vibrant scenes make the perfect backdrop. Curious about what’s on offer? Keep reading as we compare two top photography experiences in Long Beach, both offering unique approaches and excellent value.
Quick Overview
This guide features two standout photography experiences in Long Beach: the Private Photo Session with a Local Photographer, which guarantees personalized, relaxed shoots with a local’s touch, and the Vacation Photographer, which specializes in capturing solo travelers and social media-ready images. Both are approximately 30-minute sessions for groups up to four, priced around $290, and are ideal for creating lasting memories with professional flair.
1. Private Photo Session with a Local Photographer in Long Beach, California

This private photo session offers a personalized experience with a local photographer who knows Long Beach inside and out. For around $289.11 per group, you get about 30 minutes of dedicated shooting time. What makes this tour stand out is the emphasis on capturing your special moments—be it a honeymoon, family trip, or couples retreat—without the awkwardness of asking strangers to take your photos.
The network behind this experience is the largest of its kind, operating across over 700 destinations worldwide. The focus here is on quality and comfort, meaning you’ll get tailored images that reflect your personality and the scenery. The photographer will work with you to find the best locations—perhaps the historic Queen Mary, the lively Belmont Shore, or the scenic Shoreline Village.
One reviewer called it “Great! Love it! Would do it again,” highlighting how natural and fun the shoot was. With a relatively short session, this experience is perfect for travelers who want quality photos but don’t want to spend hours at a session. It’s especially suited for couples, families, or solo travelers who value personalized attention. Bottom line: if you want a customized, relaxed shoot that highlights your unique story, this is a top pick.
2. Vacation Photographer in Long Beach, California

The Vacation Photographer experience offers a professional photographer with a focus on solo travelers and social media-ready images. For around $289.40 per group, you receive about 30 minutes of private shooting, perfect for capturing your trip’s highlights with a polished look. This network is the largest in the world, spanning over 600 destinations, and specializes in fashion and social media photography—making it ideal for Instagram enthusiasts.
What sets this experience apart is the photographer’s expertise in working with solo travelers, so if you want to showcase your style or document your adventure with high-quality images, this is a smart choice. They can help you find the best angles, lighting, and settings at iconic spots such as Long Beach’s waterfront, pier, or the colorful murals downtown. If you’re into sharing your trip online, this experience ensures you get images that stand out.
Since there are no reviews listed, we rely on the reputation of the network for professionalism. It’s best suited for solo travelers, social media influencers, or anyone wanting a sleek, modern look in their vacation shots. The session’s brief nature and high-quality output make it a good value for those wanting professional images without a lengthy commitment. Bottom line: for stylish, social media-ready photos with a professional edge, this service is a reliable choice.
How to Choose
When deciding between these photography experiences, consider your budget, interest, and desired outcome. The Private Photo Session with a Local Photographer is ideal if you want a more personalized, relaxed session that captures your story in authentic settings. It’s perfect for families, couples, or special occasions.
If your goal is to get stylish, social media-ready images—especially as a solo traveler—the Vacation Photographer offers a professional approach tailored to that purpose. It’s also a good pick if you prefer a photographer experienced in fashion and solo photography.
Both options are about the same price and session length, so your choice depends on whether you want a personal touch or a modern, polished look. Booking early is recommended, especially during peak travel seasons, to ensure availability.
Final Thoughts
Long Beach offers a nice variety of photography experiences for visitors wanting to preserve their memories in high-quality images. The Private Photo Session provides a relaxed, personalized shoot perfect for families, couples, or those celebrating special moments. Meanwhile, the Vacation Photographer is excellent for solo travelers and social media fans seeking stylish, professional images.
Depending on your priorities—whether authentic, personalized photos or eye-catching social media shots—you’ll find a great option in Long Beach. To make sure you don’t miss out, it’s wise to book your session well in advance. Either way, you’ll leave with photos that truly capture the spirit of your trip.