Why Trust Me?

A little help from a local.

Hi, I'm Leah. I love photographing marriages at the Santa Barbara Courthouse. It is one of the most beautiful places, but it is a public space, and it can get pretty busy. As a local, I’ve spent a lot of time there and I’ve learned how to navigate the grounds to find the best light and the quietest spots.

As your photographer, I’m happy to share everything I know about the courthouse and the city. My goal is to help your day run smoothly so you don't have to worry about the logistics once you arrive. Whether you’re keeping it simple or planning a sunset session at the beach afterward, I’m here to make the process easy.

The Leah Faith Experience Includes:

Local Expertise

A photographer who

knows the city and

the venue inside out

Analog Nostalgia

The option to add 35mm film to your package for that

timeless, vintage feel

Planning Support

Recommendations for florists, officiants, and dinner spots to celebrate afterward.

Curated Location Guide

Access to my exclusive guide on the best photo spots within the Courthouse grounds

The Packages

"The Civil Ceremony"

The Quick and Essential Coverage

Perfect for couples who need essential documentation of the ceremony and a few iconic portraits around the architecture.

Coverage: 1 Hour
Focus: Arrival, ceremony, and a focused 20-30 minute portrait session on the grounds.
Deliverables: 50+ edited, high-resolution images.

$750

"The Elopement Story"

THE relaxed experience with variety

My signature package. This allows for a relaxed pace to explore the Sunken Gardens, Clock Tower, and Mural Room exterior, plus a bit more of your story.

Coverage: 2 Hours
Focus: Ceremony, extensive portraits at multiple Courthouse spots, and time for a celebratory toast or one nearby location (Funk Zone, beach view, etc.)
Deliverables: 100+ edited, high-resolution images.

$1,200

"The Sunset Adventure"

THE complete santa barbara experience

For couples who want their entire intimate day documented—from getting ready to the stunning golden hour.

Coverage: 4 Hours
Focus: Getting ready (or first look), ceremony, extensive Courthouse portraits, and a full sunset session at a scenic beach or bluff.
Deliverables: 200+ edited, high-resolution images.

$2,000

Having a bigger wedding at the courthouse and need more than four hours?

Contact me and I will send you my full wedding day pricing guide.

Customize Your Day

35mm Film

24 Hour Sneak Peek

Engagement Session

Extra Coverage

Second Shooter

35mm Film

Creative, nostalgic film photos added to your digital gallery.

$75 / roll

Customize Your Day

35mm Film

24 Hour Sneak Peek

Engagement Session

Extra Coverage

Second Shooter

24 Hour Sneak Peek

20-30 edited images delivered next-day. Perfect for announcements!

$300

Customize Your Day

35mm Film

24 Hour Sneak Peek

Engagement Session

Extra Coverage

Second Shooter

Engagement Session

A 1-hour session in SB to get comfortable before the big day.

$450

Customize Your Day

35mm Film

24 Hour Sneak Peek

Engagement Session

Extra Coverage

Second Shooter

Extra Coverage

Add time for dinner or a post-ceremony celebration.

$550 / hour

Customize Your Day

35mm Film

24 Hour Sneak Peek

Engagement Session

Extra Coverage

Second Shooter

Capture more angles and candid guest moments (2 hours).

$500

How It Works

The Logistics

Civil Ceremony

The Civil Ceremony (Weekdays Only)

Best for: Elopements with fewer than 15 guests.

The Vibe: Simple, quick, and official. These are performed by a Deputy Marriage Commissioner provided by the Hall of Records.

The Rules: Available Monday–Friday, 9:00 AM – 3:30 PM. You are limited to 10 guests during your license signing & 15 guests during your ceremony

Location: You will meet at the Hall of Records. The ceremony itself usually takes place just outside the door or in a small designated area of the Sunken Gardens.

How To Book: Visit the Santa Barbara County website (linked below) and click on "Santa Barbara Marriage Appointment Calendar". Appointments become available 90 days in advance, hour by hour, on a rolling basis.

Link to Book Appointment

Private Ceremony

The Private Ceremony (Small Group)

Best for: Weekend elopements or bringing your own officiant.

The Vibe: Intimate and personalized. You bring your own officiant (friend, family, or hired pro).

The Rules: If you have fewer than 15 guests, you do not need a reservation! You can choose any open public spot in the gardens (first-come, first-served) to exchange vows.

Note: You cannot set up chairs, arches, or décor, and you must avoid blocking public pathways.

The Private Event (Reserved)

Best for: Larger guest counts (up to 100+) or ensuring privacy.

The Options: You can officially rent the Mural Room (indoors, dramatic lighting) or the Sunken Gardens(outdoors, iconic backdrop) for a fee.

Why do it: This guarantees your space and time slot, which is crucial if you have guests traveling in.

Note: Requires a reservation with Santa Barbara County Parks.

How To Reserve: Visit the Santa Barbara County website (linked below) and click on "Facilities". Then choose either Courthouse Garden Weddings or Courthouse Mural Room Weddings.

Link To Reserve Space

The Best Time for Photos

The "Golden Slots"

I always recommend booking your ceremony for late afternoon (2:00 PM – 4:00 PM) or early morning (before 10:00 AM). This gives us softer, more flattering light and helps us avoid the peak tourist crowds.

Crowd Control

Weekdays (Monday–Thursday) are significantly quieter than Fridays. If you want those wide, empty shots of the Spanish architecture, a Tuesday or Wednesday is your best friend.