Amanda & Justin’s Elfin Forest engagement in Escondido was sweet and romantic. The reserve is one of North County’s best kept secrets.
The Elfin Forest Reserve runs along a babbling creek tucked away in the dusty California hills. Despite the looming summer heat, the forest at sunrise was a palette of luminescent greens and golds.
Amanda and I go back to the pre-pubescent days of the black top at elementary school. She was one of my best friends from childhood, so it was an absolute pleasure to photograph her Elfin Forest engagement photos. These two have already spent more years together than I can count on one hand- a perfect match for each other.
We spent the late afternoon scrambling over rocks and chasing the sun as it poked through the tree tops. And no shoot in the forest is complete until someone falls into the creek. (I dipped one of my sneakers in…it was for good luck).
Can’t wait for their wedding at Leo Carrillo Ranch next year!
If you love this Elfin Forest engagement, I recommend checking out Maria & Darren’s Big Sur engagement in the redwoods.
WHITNEY Salewske said:
Hi there,
I was wondering how you found this spot? Was it a long hike, is it something I could do in wedges? I am trying to get engagement pictures done soon and i just love these!!!
Paige Nelson said:
This is actually right around the park entrance! You can walk straight in from the lower parking lot. It’s a very popular spot for photos in North County because of how accessible it is. They are strict about shutting down on-the-dot at closing and you need to call ahead for a permit. It’s pretty, but I honestly think there are much better locations in San Diego without all the hassle. Just my two cents though. 🙂