Balboa Park is hands down one of the most beautiful, versatile spots in San Diego for engagement sessions. With its mix of lush gardens, historic architecture, charming pathways, and open green spaces, it offers endless backdrops that suit all kinds of vibes — from classic romance to artsy and playful.
What makes it extra special? The park feels alive and full of stories, which means your photos will carry that natural, timeless energy I love to capture.
Lighting can totally transform your photos, so timing your session right is key! My top recommendation is to schedule your shoot during golden hour — roughly one hour before sunset. That soft, warm light wraps around you, giving skin a natural glow and bathing the gardens in a dreamy haze.
If golden hour isn’t an option, early mornings are a fantastic alternative. The park is quieter, the air feels fresh, and you get that peaceful, almost magical vibe in your images — plus, fewer crowds!
Bonus tip: Check the weather and aim for a partly cloudy day if you can — clouds act like a natural diffuser, softening harsh sunlight and creating even, flattering light.ed.
Your outfit choices can really elevate your session but the number one rule is comfort. When you feel good, it shows in your photos!
Avoid busy patterns or logos that distract from your faces and connection.
Balboa Park is huge (over 1,200 acres!), so planning a route tailored to your vibe helps make the most of your session time. Some favorites to consider:
Pro tip: Think about what kind of vibe feels most “you” and share that with me — we’ll customize your session route so it feels personal and effortless.
My goal is to create a relaxed, joyful experience where you can be fully yourselves. We won’t be rushing through poses or forcing smiles — instead, expect lots of gentle prompts, laughter, and movement.
I’ll guide you through easy, natural moments like walking hand-in-hand, sharing a quiet conversation, or stealing a spontaneous kiss. The best photos happen when you’re comfortable and connected.
Ready to create timeless, authentic photos in one of San Diego’s most beautiful spots? I’d love to help you tell your story with a relaxed, storytelling session.
Contact Teresa LoJacono today to book your Balboa Park engagement session!
My photography is a blend of art, experience, and instinct—a little bit of this, a little bit of that.
For over 15 years, I’ve been immersed in the world of photography. It all started when I was 18 and stepped into a darkroom for the first time. That moment sparked a lifelong obsession with capturing the world through my lens. It eventually lead me to the fine art space, collaborating with artists, managing studios, and working alongside galleries and museums.
Through years of studying art and photography—both in undergraduate and graduate school—my aesthetic evolved under the influence of critical theory and contemporary art. I found myself drawn to the intersection of traditional documentary photography and spontaneous, unfiltered moments of real life. My goal is to create images that are raw, honest, and deeply human.
Travel plays a huge role in my creative process. I find inspiration in the unfamiliar—letting light, movement, and emotion guide my eye. Photography is my way of making sense of the world, turning fleeting moments into lasting stories. With a camera in hand, everything becomes a canvas and a chance to reveal the unexpected.