Best Portrait Photography in San Diego, California

We feature skilled portrait photographers specializing in individual, family, and corporate portraits in San Diego, California. These professionals are chosen for their style, technical skill, and their unique ability to tell stories through pictures.

Astray Photography: San Diego wedding Photographer & San Diego engagement photographer logo

Astray Photography: San Diego wedding Photographer & San Diego engagement photographer

Chalcedony Street, San Diego, California
4.9 (210 reviews)
  • Event photography
  • Headshots
  • Videography
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We specialize in engagement and wedding photography throughout Southern California. We are based in San Diego, and are proud to be recognized as one o More Detail

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Paul Barnett Photography logo

Paul Barnett Photography

Fourth Avenue, San Diego, California
4.9 (89 reviews)

As seasoned professionals who understand the complexities and nuances of luxury weddings, Paul Barnett and his team travel the globe photographing the More Detail

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The Portrait Mama logo

The Portrait Mama

La Jolla Boulevard, San Diego, California
4.9 (51 reviews)
  • Headshots
  • Maternity photos
  • Newborn and baby photo
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San Diego portrait photographer specialized in newborn, family, and personal branding photography. Renata is honored to serve powerhouse San Diego mam More Detail

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Elle G Photography logo

Elle G Photography

Sapphire Street, San Diego, California
4.8 (93 reviews)
  • Engagement photos
  • Headshots
  • Couples photography
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Magazine Worthy Images For Everyday People. Specializing in beach photography alive with family closeness, engagement excitement, and the radiant glow More Detail

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Sphere Self-Portrait Photo Studio logo

Sphere Self-Portrait Photo Studio

Ash Street, San Diego, California
4.5 (75 reviews)
  • Newborn and baby photos
  • Engagement photos
  • Headshots
  • See More

Sphere Self-Portrait Photo Studio is fully automated, letting customers take their own photos for a personal and comfortable experience. The studio ha More Detail

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ABL Photography logo

ABL Photography

Sydney Rae Place, San Diego, California
4.6 (241 reviews)
  • Maternity photos
  • Family portraits
  • Portraits
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Fine art newborn photography in San Diego, CA. History Established in 1997. We started our business in Reno/Lake Tahoe area and moved to beauti More Detail

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Snappr Photography logo

Snappr Photography

J Street, San Diego, California
4.3 (194 reviews)
  • Videography
  • Couples photography
  • Engagement photos
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Snappr Media is a photography company that specializes in real estate, family and event photography, and videography. We work very closely with our cl More Detail

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Enchanted Fairies of San Diego, CA logo

Enchanted Fairies of San Diego, CA

Del Rey Street, San Diego, California
3.6 (886 reviews)
  • children's storybook photography
  • Portraits

Enchanted Fairies Portraiture Studio specializes in children's storybook photography. 38+ locations across the US! More Detail

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Frequently Asked Questions

We suggest going for a photographer who is well skilled n lighting, angles, and posing to bring out your best features. Check their portfolio for the variety in styles since some specialize in dramatic studio lighting, while others focus on natural, outdoor portraits

Importantly, Look at client testimonials to ensure they make subjects feel comfortable and confident in front of the camera.

Choose clothing that suits the tone of the shoot. for professional headshots, opt for neutral, well-fitted clothing, while creative portraits allow for more expressive outfits. Avoid busy patterns, overly bright colors, or large logos that can distract from your face. If unsure, consult your photographer; many offer wardrobe styling advice.

  • Studio portraits provide controlled lighting, backdrops, and a polished, editorial feel which is the best for headshots and formal portraits.
  • Outdoor portraits use natural lighting and scenic backgrounds to create a more relaxed, organic look. These are great for lifestyle or personal branding shoots.

Most portrait sessions last between 30 minutes to 2 hours, depending on the number of outfit changes, location shifts, and the level of editing required. If you are booking for a professional purpose, a quick 30-minute headshot session might be enough, while creative or branding portraits may require more time.

Yes! Most photographers include basic retouching such as skin smoothing, color correction, and lighting adjustments, in their packages. If you need extensive edits like background changes, makeup enhancement, or object removal, confirm with the photographer beforehand.