Must-Have Wedding Portrait Locations at SF City Hall


After years of capturing countless love stories at San Francisco City Hall, I am continually struck by the awe-inspiring beauty of this iconic venue. Each visit fills me with a deeper appreciation for its stunning architecture and timeless charm. With its grandeur and elegance, SF City Hall provides an array of picture-perfect locations for wedding portraits. If you're considering saying "I do" here, here are my takes on some of the must-have locations for your wedding photoshoot.


1. The Rotunda: At the top of the grand stairs lies the breathtaking rotunda, adorned with intricate architectural details and crowned by a magnificent dome. This is the heart of SF City Hall and a must-visit spot for your wedding portraits, especially during the holiday season when a towering Christmas tree graces the space, adding a touch of festive magic to your photos.


Photo Credit: Lily Zhang Photography

Photo Credit: Lily Zhang Photography


2. The Grand Stairs: the grand stairs leading to the ground floor marbled floor with intricate patterns, surrounded by the majestic beauty of SF City Hall. These stairs exude elegance and sophistication, creating the perfect setting for a fairytale-like portrait.


Photo Credit: Lily Zhang Photography

Photo Credit: Lily Zhang Photography


3. The 4th Floor Gallery: Escape to the 4th floor galleries, where natural light floods in through the expansive windows, casting a soft, dreamy glow on everything it touches. These galleries offer a serene and intimate backdrop for your portraits, allowing you to bask in the magic light of the moment.


Photo Credit: Lily Zhang Photography

Photo Credit: Lily Zhang Photography


4. The Mayor's Balcony: For a bird's-eye view of the rotunda, head to the Mayor's Balcony. With its ornate gold railing and sweeping vistas, this elevated perch provides a unique perspective for your wedding portraits, capturing the grandeur of SF City Hall from an elevated point. 


Photo Credit: Lily Zhang Photography

Photo Credit: Lily Zhang Photography


5. The Intricate Windows: Don't overlook the beauty of the intricate patterned windows on the 3rd floor. These architectural gems can serve as a stunning framing device for your portraits, adding depth and visual interest to your photos. Don't hesitate to step onto the window ledge for a bold and striking pose.



6. The Entryway: whether you are entering or existing city hall, don't forget the steps of the city hall and the plaza in front of it, don't forget to snap a few pictures with SF City Hall as the backdrop to remember the day.


Photo Credit: Lily Zhang Photography


These are just a few of the must-have spots included in my packages and among my personal favorites. As you've likely gathered by now, SF City Hall is a treasure trove of enchanting locations. Choosing City Hall for your wedding already ensures stunning pictures; all that's left is finding the right photographer to capture them.