About the experience
An honest kind of beautiful.
A courthouse wedding is short, so the moments go by fast: the nervous laugh before you sign, the look you give each other when it’s official, the hugs on the steps afterward. I’m there for all of it, quietly, so you can stay in the moment instead of performing for a camera.
I’ve photographed couples at the Santa Barbara County Courthouse for years. I know the clerk’s timing, where the light falls at each hour, and how to fit great portraits into a tight window.
How the day runs
From license to last portrait.
01
Your license
I meet you before your appointment and capture the paperwork, the nerves and the walk in.
02
The ceremony
The clerk ceremony lasts a few minutes. I work quietly and catch the vows, the rings and every reaction.
03
Family photos
A quick, organized round with everyone who came, so nobody is left out.
04
Your portraits
Just the two of you around the grounds. This is where most of your favorite photos come from.
Where we’ll take portraits
The courthouse is the backdrop.
Built in 1929, the courthouse is one of the most photographed buildings in California. I plan your portraits around the time of day so the light works for you.
Sunken Gardens
Open lawn, palms and soft afternoon light.
Mural Room
Hand-painted walls and a warm, historic interior.
Clock tower arches
Shade, framing and views across the city.
Stairways & doors
Tile, iron and ivy for close, quiet portraits.
Your photographer
Photography rooted in presence.
Hi, I’m Abdon. I’ve spent ten years behind a camera, and courthouse weddings have become some of my favorite days to shoot: no big production, just the two of you and the people who matter most. I guide you when it helps and stay out of the way when it doesn’t.
More about meKind words
“Abdon did a fantastic job capturing our Santa Barbara courthouse wedding. He was easy to work with and made us feel comfortable throughout the entire process. The photos are absolutely beautiful and we will cherish them forever.”Alejandro & Alexis
“Abdon captures all the best moments. He photographed our wedding and his attention to detail is unmatched. The best photographer around for any special event.”Jordan & Malia
“My wife and I aren’t the most comfortable in front of the camera, but he put us at ease right away. He knew all the best spots around the courthouse and we couldn’t be happier with how the photos turned out.”John & Tamarah
Santa Barbara elopements
The courthouse, the coast, or both.
Some couples want more than the ceremony. Say “I do” at the courthouse, then head to Butterfly Beach for golden hour. Or skip the courthouse entirely and elope somewhere that means something to you, from the Riviera to Elings Park.
The Elopement collection gives you four hours, time to get ready or share a first look, and portraits at up to two locations. I’ll help you plan the timing and the spots so the light is on your side.
See the Elopement collection →Pricing
Three ways to say I do.
The Essentials
1 hour of coverage
$750
- Marriage license process and civil ceremony
- A few family photos
- 60+ edited high-resolution photos
- Sneak peeks within 24 hours
- Full gallery in 2–3 weeks
- Online gallery and personal print release
The Full Experience
2 hours of coverage
$1,150
- Marriage license process and civil ceremony
- Family and small group photos
- Portrait session around the courthouse: Sunken Gardens, Mural Room, arches and stairs
- 100+ edited high-resolution photos
- Sneak peeks within 24 hours
- Full gallery in 2–3 weeks
- Online gallery and personal print release
The Elopement
4 hours of coverage
$2,200
- Getting ready or a first look
- Courthouse ceremony or a location of your choice
- Portraits at up to two locations, like the courthouse and Butterfly Beach at golden hour
- 250+ edited high-resolution photos
- Help planning your timeline and locations
- Sneak peeks within 48 hours
- Online gallery and personal print release
Add a 30–45 second highlight video for $400Extra hours $550$150 non-refundable retainer reserves your date
Questions
Courthouse wedding FAQ.
Do we book the courthouse ceremony ourselves?
Yes. Civil ceremonies are reserved directly with the Santa Barbara County Clerk-Recorder, weekdays only, and dates book up fast. Once you have your date and time, send it to me and I build the photo plan around it. If you are not sure where to start, I walk you through it on our first call.
How many guests can we bring?
The civil ceremony allows up to 15 people in total, including children and your photographer (indoor ceremonies are capped at 10). For more than 15 guests, you would book a private ceremony instead, renting the Courthouse Gardens or the Mural Room through County Parks. I am happy to help you figure out which option fits.
How long is the ceremony itself?
Usually under 10 minutes. That is why the portrait time afterward matters: it is where most of your favorite photos come from.
When do we get our photos?
A few sneak peeks within 24 hours, and the full edited gallery in 2 to 3 weeks, delivered online with a personal print release.
Can we add video?
Yes. A 30 to 45 second highlight reel set to music can be added to either package for $400.
How do we reserve our date?
Send the form below with your date. A $150 non-refundable retainer holds it.
Can we elope somewhere other than the courthouse?
Yes. The Elopement collection covers a ceremony at the courthouse or a location of your choice, plus portraits at up to two spots around Santa Barbara, like Butterfly Beach, the Riviera or Elings Park. I’ll help you plan the best timing and light.
Get in touch
Tell me about your wedding
Fill out the form and I’ll follow up within the hour to chat about your date, your vision and any add-ons.