When I arrived in the area the day before, the weather was beautiful, BUT.
On this wedding day, Mother Nature brought her own drama.
Late April 2025, Y+M celebrated their wedding at the Chart House Restaurant in Dana Point. While this was my first time photographing a wedding in Dana Point, I had visited both the area and this restaurant before. As their Dana Point wedding photographer and Orange County wedding photographer, I felt confident in capturing their special cliffside celebration.
The couple didn’t have a personal connection to this restaurant. Still, they were looking for a wedding venue that could host 150 guests and offer breathtaking views of the California coast, preferably outdoors. And having great food and not going super-luxury on price was important to them. And they found a perfect match.
Why Chart House Dana Point Works for Coastal Weddings
The majority of the dining area faces slightly south, so the light coming in is pretty good throughout the day.
In fact, because their wedding was in April, when the sun is higher, having a bit of cloud would have been very helpful. We had a little too much cloud, which made the lighting more moody and dramatic. Mother Nature was putting on a show for us, as conditions changed quite a bit during the wedding.
Chart House Dana Point is located at 34442 Green Lantern Street in Dana Point, California, making it easily accessible for couples and guests from Los Angeles, Orange County, or San Diego. Perched on the cliffs with panoramic Pacific Ocean views, yet close to major freeways and hotel accommodations for out-of-town guests.
Creative Photography Solutions When Mother Nature Shows Up
Wedding photographers’ primary concern about the weather is often not about themselves or equipment, but about the couple. (I go deeper on this mindset in The 3 Honest Truths About Wedding Photography.) When I was about to meet the couple, the rain was pouring down, and they had already finished their hair and makeup. I didn’t want to bring them outside as planned for the first look because if they got wet, they would feel miserable throughout the day.
So, for the first look, I had to be creative.
Iconic Photography Spots at Chart House Restaurant
Before setting them up for the first look, I did two things: photographing the details and wedding dress, then having a chat with the couple.
Trying to feel where the clients are in terms of mindset helps me understand how far I can push them for photos. My goal is always to keep the energy high, have the couples enjoy themselves, and get the highest-quality images possible.
One of the restaurant’s iconic features is the staircase. Because it was raining outside, the light entering this area was soft and didn’t cast harsh shadow lines, which is excellent for photographers.
Embracing Rain as a Southern California Wedding Photographer
Having grown up in the UK, I don’t mind rain at all, so I tend to follow couples’ energy. As a Southern California wedding photographer who’s shot in all types of weather, I actually enjoy photographing in the rain—all the first awards I won in the U.S. and Europe were captured in rain or harsh weather.
What made this day extra difficult was that the rain and sunlight were going in and out, so constantly adjusting my camera’s exposure was not easy. But in all honesty, I had so much fun; it was very tiring afterward, but so worth it.
Before I end this blog post, I want to thank the vendors. I’m always grateful to work with professionals who can adapt quickly to changing conditions.
Chart House Dana Point Wedding Vendors
Photographer & Videographer: Eugene Kim Photography | Wedding Planner: Fait Wedding | Hair & Makeup: Credo Makeup Studio | Florist: Flower Noon Shop | Cake/Bakery: Petit Bonbon | Wedding Gown: Bella Wedding | Stationery: Color and Creation | Venue: Chart House, Dana Point, CA
If you want a wedding where guests can easily get to while looking over the California coastline with good food, Chart House at Dana Point is fantastic. Nearby venues include Talega Golf Club, Franciscan Gardens, and The Ranch at Laguna Beach.
Chart House Dana Point Wedding FAQ
Q: Is Chart House Dana Point a good wedding venue? Chart House Dana Point is exceptional for couples seeking breathtaking ocean views, excellent food, and mid-range pricing. It can accommodate up to 150 guests with indoor and outdoor options.
Q: What happens if it rains at an outdoor Chart House wedding? Chart House has floor-to-ceiling windows and covered areas that provide weather protection. For larger weddings, an outdoor ceremony is ideal but backup plans are advisable — especially for spring.
Q: What are other wedding venues near Chart House Dana Point? Nearby options include Talega Golf Club, Franciscan Gardens, and The Ranch at Laguna Beach.
Planning a wedding in Orange County or Los Angeles? I thrive in any weather — from sunny California days to dramatic rainy celebrations. Schedule a consultation to discuss your wedding photography needs.
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