Wedding Gallery at Christ Cathedral | Julianne & Jared

Photos by Lulan

Christ Cathedral Wedding Photography Guide (Garden Grove, Orange County)

If you’re planning a wedding at Christ Cathedral (often searched as “Christ Cathedral Anaheim,” located on Chapman Ave in Garden Grove) you’re choosing one of the most visually striking wedding ceremony settings in Southern California—glass architecture, clean modern lines, and a campus designed for grand, editorial images. (Christ Cathedral)

Below is a practical photography-focused guide: the best portrait spots, timing tips, and the key campus rules that can affect your wedding day coverage.

Why Christ Cathedral photographs so beautifully

• Iconic glass cathedral: The cathedral is famous for its glass enclosure and dramatic scale; it’s also historically known as the Crystal Cathedral. (Christ Cathedral Venues)

• Architectural variety across the campus: The venues site describes the campus as a 34-acre collection of architectural masterpieces and specifically references architects Richard Neutra, Philip Johnson, and Richard Meier. (Christ Cathedral Venues)

• Multiple “looks” without leaving the property: Modern glass + mid-century modern spaces (including the Arboretum) give you a lot of visual diversity without burning time on travel. (Architect Magazine)

Best photo locations on the Christ Cathedral campus

1) The Cathedral exterior + plazas (for cinematic, wide-angle portraits)

The cathedral’s geometry rewards:

• Symmetrical wide shots (centered compositions)

• Editorial couple portraits using the glass façade as a clean, reflective backdrop

• Big family formals with lots of depth and structure

2) The Arboretum (for mid-century modern + softer, intimate portraits)

The Arboretum is historically significant and visually different from the cathedral—glass walls, slender columns, and a calmer, design-forward feel. It was originally designed by Richard Neutra (1961) and later revitalized/restored. (Architect Magazine)

3) Gardens, fountains, and landscaped walkways (for romantic “in-between” moments)

The campus description highlights lush gardens and fountains, which are ideal for:

• Veil shots with movement

• Bridal portraits with softer backgrounds

• Candid walking sequences (great for both photo + video) (Christ Cathedral Venues)

Lighting and timing tips (how to get the best photos here)

Aim for one dedicated portrait window

Because the cathedral is visually bold, you’ll get the most out of it if you set aside 20–30 minutes where photography is the priority (no family wrangling, no vendor questions, no guests pulling you away).

Consider these windows

• Late afternoon for softer outdoor light on the campus

• Golden hour for warm reflections on glass and more dimensional portraits

• After-dark for dramatic, editorial-style images using the campus architecture as a bold graphic element (even a short 10-minute night session can be worth it)

If you’re doing a first look, place it in a quieter corner of the campus (away from heavy foot traffic) to keep the moment private and to avoid background distractions.

Important campus rules that affect photography

Christ Cathedral has clear policies around photography/filming—these matter even more on weekends when the campus is busy.

Photo permits and approvals

• Permits are mandatory for on-campus photography activities, and the permit grants external photography only (it does not include interior spaces). (Christ Cathedral Venues)

• For professional portrait sessions (including wedding/engagement-style shoots), the campus policy states you must be pre-approved, reserve, and pay a fee. (Christ Cathedral)

• The policy also notes that building interiors are not available for portrait photography, and if used, the group may be asked to leave. (Christ Cathedral)

During worship services

• No photography/video during worship services without express written permission from the celebrant. (Christ Cathedral)

A photography-friendly flow (sample outline)

A common structure that works well here:

1. Getting ready

2. First look (optional)

3. Couple portraits (Cathedral exterior + one garden/walkway)

4. Wedding party

5. Immediate family formals

6. Ceremony

7. Post-ceremony extended family + remaining portraits

8. Short sunset or night portrait “bonus” session

FAQ

Can we do engagement photos at Christ Cathedral?
Yes, but professional portrait sessions typically require reservation/fees and must follow the campus photography policy; exterior permits are explicitly referenced, and interiors are restricted for portrait shoots. (Christ Cathedral Venues)

Can we use a drone for an establishing shot?
No—drones are prohibited on the campus. (Christ Cathedral)

Vendors

Photography & Videography by Lulan Studio

Venue: Christ Cathedral & California Adventure Park