Capturing Love at Balboa Park: A Unique Couples Photography Experience
A couples photographer at Balboa Park:
Two things about me you have to know:
I have been in love with SoCal since 2012. My adventurous cousin and I have traveled all over Southern California together, and I love coming back there for work.I come from a long line of conversationalists. I don't believe in stranger danger—well, I do, but I'm willing to put myself out there for a good chat or a photograph.
Back in September of 2023, I found myself at an overcast and under-construction Balboa Park. I came with a mission - to view as much of the park as possible and ask to photograph any couples I spot. But why do this? Well, I needed more content for SoCal couples! Plus, I wanted to step out of my comfort zone and stretch my creative mind. I'd walk around the park, go up to a couple, and ask to take their photos in exchange for free photographs. I would also end their "mini shoot" by taking a Polaroid to give them(I used this as a business card, putting my Instagram Handle on the back.) This is my "Balboa Experiment." 
Beginning the Experiment at the Spanish Village Arts Center
I started in the Spanish Village Arts Center. While it contains 36 charming studios and upwards of 236 artists, I found no couples here! I look forward to going back there for a festival of arts, but I had so much of the park left to explore. Onward I went!
After getting lost in a few side quests with Google Maps, I ended up at the botanical building, which houses a peaceful Lilly Pond out front. This idyllic part of the park must have beautiful moments happening around it daily. Unfortunately, due to the construction of the building, no cuties in love were found. Yet again, I had to move on!
Photographing at the Bea Evenson Fountain
I decided to walk down the long ourtdoor corridor to the Bea Evenson Fountain and found myself in front of a small local art market. Here, I met the sweetest Central European couple who were traveling around the West Coast while newly engaged! The two agreed to let me take their picture close to the Natural History Museum. Through Instagram, I've since seen them travel the world and get married. Congrats T + A <3
Balboa Park’s San Diago Museum of Art
I then walked back down the corridor toward the San Diego Museum of Art. Before entering the little public square there, I asked to take pictures of a very California-casual-looking couple. As it turns out, the pair was rushing off to an architectural meeting. They hesitantly accepted a small photo-op as the architect said we will "always support an artist's endeavor. But we really do have to go." As agreed, their shoot was short but genuine, and they quickly went along their way. I never did hear from them to receive their photos, so this shoot is just for your and my viewing pleasure.
Exploring Balboa’s Plaza De Panama
I spent some time in front of the Plaza De Panama Fountain and met another couple walking their two sweet dogs(I wish I could remember their names!). Having pets there took some of the awkwardness away and created a special lil' moment. One of the partners is a local San Diago artist, and you can find his work at LunaOrigionals.com . Thank you, C + F, for your time!
Balboa’s Japanese Friendship Garden
I then decided to try my hand in the Japanese friendship garden, and while I thoughtfully enjoyed it, I found no suckers in love walking by. At least I gained some tranquility.
Couples Shoot at the House Of Hospitality
I had a ride to catch back to my Airbnb before checkout, so I ended my experiment in front of the House of Hospitality. This is where I met a couple visiting from the Carolinas for a concert. They made me smile with their tropical pants and sweet, soft demeanor. They were willing to try a few different poses, and I am forever grateful!
Have questions about hiring me for your SoCal Shoot?Ending the Couples Balboa Park Experiment
I loved doing this experiment in San Diego. The atmosphere, even on a cloudy day, is warm with the people I had the pleasure of encountering. The architecture, culture, and plant life are worth a day's visit! Consider bringing your camera, and maybe step out of your comfort zone and ask a stranger for their picture.
But, before I go, here a few “in-between” photographs from that day.
