Wedding Gallery at DoubleTree San Pedro | Chelsey & Lorenzo

Photos by Lulan

Wedding Photography at DoubleTree by Hilton Hotel San Pedro - Port of Los Angeles

Why this venue photographs so well

This property sits along the marina/harbor area, which means you get clean waterfront backgrounds, open sky, and reflective light that stays flattering later into the afternoon than many inland venues. Many guest rooms and event spaces look out toward the harbor, which helps with both getting-ready photos and sunset portraits. (WeddingWire)

From an event-design standpoint, it’s also built for weddings: the hotel advertises substantial total event space and a large ballroom option (commonly referenced as the Madeo Ballroom), making it workable for medium-to-large guest counts. (Hilton)

The best photo locations on-site

1) Marina-facing exteriors
Use these for wide establishing shots and couple portraits with boats/water behind you. Aim for late afternoon when the light softens.

2) Courtyard / open-air walkways
Great for ceremony coverage and clean editorial portraits (especially if you’re going for bright, minimal, magazine-like frames). (The venue is often shown with a courtyard-style ceremony setup.) (Here Comes The Guide)

3) Lobby + transitional spaces
These are ideal for quick “in-between” storytelling moments: hugs, first looks, and candid family interactions—especially if the timeline is tight or weather changes.

4) Ballroom reception images (night look)
Ballrooms photograph best when you lean into contrast: candles, uplighting, and intentional pockets of light. If you’re investing in florals, ask for a few statement pieces that read well from across the room (suspended elements, tall centerpieces, or a strong sweetheart-table install). (Hilton)

Nearby portrait spots if you want variety

If you have 20–40 minutes for off-site portraits (and transportation is simple), these locations add strong “San Pedro” character:

  • Korean Bell of Friendship – coastal overlook + dramatic lines

  • Cabrillo Beach – relaxed shoreline portraits

  • Cabrillo Marine Aquarium – quick, family-friendly stop with nearby coastal backgrounds

  • Angels Gate Park – greenery + ocean-facing views

  • Point Fermin Park – cliffs + coastal paths

Sample 8-hour wedding photography timeline

Adjust the start time based on your ceremony, but this structure is reliable:

1:30 Details + getting ready
2:30 First look (optional)
3:00 Wedding party + immediate family
division
4:00 Touch-ups + hideaway
4:30 Ceremony
5:00 Congratulations + group photos
5:30 Cocktail hour candids + room detail photos
6:10 Sunset couple portraits (10–20 min)
6:30 Grand entrance + first dances
7:00 Dinner + toasts
8:00 Open dance floor + night portraits
9:30 Exit / final moments

Vendors

Photography & Videography by Lulan Studio

Venue: DoubleTree San Pedro

Coordinator: Maddie Smith

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