Top 10 Photo-Worthy Spots in Orange County to Shoot Film – and Where to Get it Developed
Orange County is a dream destination for all film photography lovers. From beachside sunsets to urban landmarks, this region offers diverse backdrops that look especially stunning on 35mm and 120 film. Whether you're a seasoned film shooter or just getting into analog photography, this guide will show you the best places to shoot, the best film stock for each spot, and where to get your film developed in Orange County.
1. Balboa Pier & Fun Zone – Vintage Vibes & Boardwalk Charm
Auto Ferry by Matt Woinarowicz (more), developed and scanned with Legacy Film Lab, 2025
Capture nostalgic energy with colorful carnival rides, classic architecture, and ocean pier scenes. Great for black-and-white street photography and dreamy, saturated color shots. Not far from the beach, there is always lots of activity to capture: boats, kayakers, surfers, and more!
We recommend: Kodak Color Plus 200
Location: 600 E Bay Ave, Newport Beach, CA 92661
Best conditions: sunny weekend afternoons.
On big surf days, drive a few extra minutes to visit the famous Wedge surf spot!
2. Orange County Museum of Art and Segerstrom Center – Culture Meets Composition
OCMA Half Frames by Sam Duda (more), developed and scanned with Legacy Film Lab, 2024
A simple, walkable space with access to free museums, music centers, and gorgeous architecture. Varied in style, each building cuts into the landscape with precision waiting to be captured on film.
We recommend: Cinestill 800T
Location: 3333 Avenue of the Arts, Costa Mesa, CA 92626
Best conditions: overcast mornings.
Hop across the street to visit the famous Noguchi Gardens!
3. Downtown Santa Ana 4th Street – Urban Texture & Street Photography Gold
Classics by Fernando Marquez (more), developed and scanned with Legacy Film Lab, 2024
Brick facades, murals, and local street culture make DSA a top pick for gritty, cinematic street film work. Constantly bustling with local artists and covered in street art, Downtown is the best place for capturing people in their element and classic cars galore. Bonus: lots of coffee shops to hang and load new rolls.
We recommend: Ilford XP2
Location: 201 E 4th St, Santa Ana, CA 92701
Best conditions: overcast days, evenings.
4. Crystal Cove State Park – Coastal Nature Meets History
Crystal Cove Couples by Sam Duda (more), developed and scanned with Legacy Film Lab, 2024
There’s no better place to capture textured sand dunes, historic beach cottages, and the vibrant blues of the Pacific. Bring a light meter and slower-speed film for maximum detail on wide shots of the coast. Pro tip: plan for a couple hours out to watch as the light moves across the cliffs!
We recommend: Pro Image 100
Location: 7385 East Coast Hwy, Newport Beach, CA 92657
Best conditions: partly cloudy evenings.
Visit your local library first to pick up a free parking pass!
5. Newport Harbor – Nautical Nostalgia Meets Coastal Charm
Low Tide in Newport by Sam Duda (more), developed and scanned with Legacy Film Lab, 2024
Colorful sailboats, weathered docks, and classic yachts drift lazily across the water, giving Newport Harbor a timeless, maritime vibe that feels straight out of a 1960s postcard. Marina-front homes with faded shutters and sun-bleached signs add to the old-school SoCal character. Perfect for shooting analog by the sea—don’t miss the reflections at dusk.
We recommend: Fujifilm Superia X-TRA 400
Location: Newport Harbor, Newport Beach, CA 92663
Best conditions: late afternoon light with calm tides.
6. The Orange Circle (Old Towne Orange) – Retro Americana Aesthetic
Orange Circle Details by Sam Duda (more), developed and scanned with Legacy Film Lab, 2024
Old signage and classic cars parked on every street make this one of the most photogenic neighborhoods for analog photographers. With a vintage shop on nearly every street, there are miles of aisles to walk around and find details worth a photo. Bring a flash for indoors, and enjoy the bright sun on the street!
We recommend: Kodak Gold 200
Location: Plaza Circle, Orange, CA 92866
Best conditions: golden hour afternoons.
Visit on Saturday mornings to walk through the local farmers market!
7. Fullerton Arboretum – Light, Trees, and Wildlife
Arboretum by Sam Duda (more), developed and scanned with Legacy Film Lab, 2025
A perfect spot for nature and portrait photography. The park is sprawling, so be ready for a walk, but the gorgeous greens make it the perfect backdrop for any photo session. Try shooting early morning with Portra 400 or Ektar 100 to get the colors just right.
We recommend: Ektar 100
Location: 1 Irvine Park Rd, Orange, CA 92869
Best conditions: early mornings and overcast days.
8. Huntington Beach – Surf Culture & Silhouettes
Huntington Beach Surfers by Sam Duda (more), developed and scanned with Legacy Film Lab, 2024
From boardwalk skaters to surfers under the pier, this beach embodies classic Southern California energy on film. Huntington stretches for miles of beach and local shops, so there is room for every style of photography. Plan to shoot around sunrise and sunset for the best surf!
We recommend: Cinestill 400D
Location: 6th St, Huntington Beach, CA 92648
Best conditions: sunrise and sunset.
Visit on weekends for a chance to see local markets and surf competitions!
9. Fullerton’s Vintage Neighborhoods – Mid-Century Magic
Iza in Fullerton by Sam Duda (more), developed and scanned with Legacy Film Lab, 2024
Hidden gems of mid-century homes, palm-lined streets, and vintage cars offer timeless backdrops. This area is great for stylized editorial shoots, low-key street photography, and detail oriented landscapes. Littered with shops, bookstores, and themed restaurants, Fullerton is alive morning ‘til night and ready to be photographed!
We recommend: Fujifilm 200
Location: 107 W Amerige Ave, Fullerton, CA 92832
Best conditions: all times of day!
Stop for a drink at Made Coffee!
10. Laguna Beach – Golden Hour Perfection
Laguna from Above by Trevor Welsh (more), developed and scanned with Legacy Film Lab, 2025
With its rocky coves, tide pools, and pastel sunsets, Laguna Beach is a film photographer's paradise. The soft coastal light is perfect for portrait and landscape work alike. Known for its winding walking paths and year-round blossoming flowers, Laguna is the perfect mix of natural charm and Southern California style.
We recommend: Fuji 400
Location: 211 N Coast Hwy, Laguna Beach, CA 92651
Best conditions: sunset, partly cloudy
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Where to Get Your Film Developed in Orange County
No matter where you shoot, bring your rolls to the pros.
📍 Legacy Film Lab – Professional Film Developing in Orange County
We process 35mm, 120, disposable cameras, slide film, and more. Whether you want high-res scans or traditional prints, we’ve got you covered. Fast turnaround, archival quality, and film-friendly staff.
🔗 Visit us here: LegacyFilmLab.com
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Final Tip: Make a Day of It
Many of these spots are within a short drive of one another — perfect for a weekend photo adventure. Capture the beauty of Orange County on film, and let us help you bring it to life through expert developing and scanning.
Tag us @legacyfilmlab and we might feature you!