Lily Rose Photography
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Half Moon Bay, CA

Half Moon Bay Wedding, Engagement, Portrait, and Event Photographer

Half Moon Bay offers rugged coastal cliffs, long sandy beaches, charming downtown streets, and a slower pace that feels worlds away from San Francisco — yet it’s less than an hour’s drive. From beachside elopements to cliff-top proposals, family portraits, and corporate retreats, it’s an unforgettable place to be photographed.

Services Offered in Half Moon Bay

  • Weddings & elopements
  • Engagement & surprise proposals
  • Destination engagements
  • Portraits & personal branding
  • Boudoir sessions
  • Corporate & event photography

Why Half Moon Bay

Half Moon Bay is famous for its rugged Pacific coastline, wildflower-covered bluffs, pumpkin fields in the fall, and small-town charm. Just south of San Francisco, it offers breathtaking scenery without the crowds of the city.

Working with Us

We scout tides, lighting, and seasonal blooms to plan your session. Whether it’s the golden cliffs of sunset or the dramatic waves at Mavericks, we’ll match your vision to the right location and timing.

Weddings in Half Moon Bay

With venues ranging from oceanfront resorts to rustic barns, Half Moon Bay has options for every wedding style. The coastal weather provides soft light year-round, perfect for photography.

Top Venues & Photo Locations

  • The Ritz-Carlton, Half Moon Bay — luxury resort perched on ocean cliffs
  • Half Moon Bay Golf Links — sweeping coastal views
  • Sam’s Chowder House — casual, scenic seaside dining
  • Pillar Point Harbor — boats, piers, and bay backdrops
  • Mavericks Beach — world-famous big wave spot
  • Poplar Beach — long sandy beach perfect for sunsets

Engagements & Proposals

From hidden bluffs to sandy shores, Half Moon Bay is a dream proposal location. We can help coordinate timing, location, and capture every reaction.

Destination Engagements

Many couples plan a weekend getaway to Half Moon Bay for their engagement session — pairing portraits with coastal hikes, fresh seafood, and sunsets.

Portraits & Branding

Half Moon Bay’s combination of natural landscapes and charming streets makes it an ideal spot for lifestyle portraits and professional branding images.

Corporate & Events

From oceanfront conference spaces to company retreats, we offer event coverage that reflects your brand and captures the atmosphere of your gathering.

What Sets Us Apart

  • Extensive knowledge of Half Moon Bay’s best spots
  • Hybrid digital + analog film shooting style
  • Seasonal and tide-based location planning
  • Complimentary yearly session for all clients

Best Time & Locations

Best Light: Golden hour before sunset and soft morning fog.

Favorite Spots: Ritz-Carlton cliffs, Mavericks Beach, Poplar Beach, Pillar Point Harbor.

Where to Stay

Luxury

  • The Ritz-Carlton, Half Moon Bay — world-class oceanfront experience

Mid-Range

  • Beach House Hotel — coastal suites with marina views
  • Oceano Hotel & Spa — charming harbor-side hotel

Affordable

  • Harbor View Inn — casual comfort near the harbor
  • Half Moon Bay Lodge — relaxed and convenient

Top Restaurants

Fine Dining

  • Navio — refined coastal cuisine at the Ritz-Carlton

Casual & Local Favorites

  • Sam’s Chowder House — seafood with ocean views
  • Barbara’s Fishtrap — classic fish shack experience
  • Pasta Moon — Italian with fresh, local ingredients

FAQ

Is Half Moon Bay foggy? Fog can roll in quickly, especially in summer — we help plan timing for the best light and visibility.

Can you photograph in the pumpkin fields? Yes, during the fall harvest season many farms welcome photo sessions with prior arrangement.

Get in Touch

Planning your Half Moon Bay session or event? Contact us here — we’d love to help bring your vision to life.

Facts About Half Moon Bay

  • Location: San Mateo County, California coast
  • Population: ~11,000
  • Known for: Coastal cliffs, Mavericks surfing, pumpkin festival
  • Climate: Cool coastal with frequent fog
  • Nearby: Pacifica, Pescadero, San Francisco



Lily Rose Photography © 2006-2025 - (707) 603-9062 Address: 1055 Broadway, STE. E1, Sonoma, CA 95476 debbie@lilyrosephotography.com Privacy Terms of Use