Hillcrest park in fullerton, what to expect
I got to capture an engagement shoot at Hillcrest Park in Fullerton, California, and it was such a treat! Since it was a new spot for me, I decided to arrive a bit early. But guess what? It turned out to be more than just a pretty fountain. It was a multi-layered, hill-filled adventure! The first challenge was parking. There’s a quick little spot that fills up fast, so you might have to hope for a free one. Or, you could park by the shopping center, then cross the street to the park and take a short hike to get there. I managed to snag a spot up on one of the hills, dodging all the joggers and people on their fitness journeys. Luckily, we already had a good connection, so once my couple arrived, we could easily find each other and meet up. Once we were together, it was time to pick our first destination. I also discovered how important it is to bring comfortable shoes. Luckily this client brought two pairs, one for the photos and one for all the walking.
more than just a fountain
Yes, there’s a fountain at the park’s bottom that’s sure to be busy with people. Plus, there are paths where joggers and fitness buffs stroll, which can also be great spots for photos. You might find some cool lighting on those hiking paths where the sunlight filters through the trees, adding a dramatic touch to your pictures. Our first stop on our photo adventure was the stairs. We were at the top of a hill, looking over downtown Fullerton. I wish I’d brought more lighting gear, but that would have meant hiking with all my equipment, and I wasn’t ready for that—it was my first time there, so I know now. Just remember that each spot at Hillcrest Park will have people, so be polite and patient as they walk past your shot. While you can try to tweak things in camera, some things are best fixed in post, like all the people you might catch in the background.
Hillcrest park final thoughts
There’s a good reason so many photographers love this spot! Whether it’s for engagement photos or graduations, you’ll see lots of people snapping away here. It’s a fantastic place for all kinds of photography, offering everything from stunning landscapes and beautiful sunsets to lovely greenery perfect for portraits and iconic features like the water fountain that’s sure to be a favorite in your photos. I suggest you and your client explore different parts of the park. Check out the hills and try shooting from low angles. Discover new angles and create unique shots from a familiar place. Use the park benches to frame your models and pose them nicely. The key takeaway is to have fun, take your time, wear comfy shoes, and bring water. Maybe the spot you want is busy, or you need to hike up or down the hills, so a spare pair of shoes can be a lifesaver. Also, take breaks so your models don’t get sweaty while you’re taking their pictures. Be patient, give yourself extra time, and most importantly, enjoy the wonderful location in Fullerton, California!
Hillcrest park
1200 N Harbor Blvd
Fullerton, CA 92832
United States
