San Diego Photographer

San Diego Photographer specializing in event and branding photography. View portfolio highlights, learn my process & today.

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happy newly wed couple posing at a nature preserve

San Diego Photographer Services

  • Headshots
  • Branding Sessions
  • Content Creation
  • Event Photography
  • Convention Photography

I specialize in on‑location photography. I do not exclusively rent out a studio, but we can rent one if your session would benefit.

Pricing & Promotions

My event packages start at $330. Each session includes:

  • Complimentary consultation
  • High‑resolution & web‑optimized images for print and sharing
  • Your own secure, downloadable online gallery

Most San Diego photographers deliver 7–10 images for $425–$750. You’re saving $75–$375 compared the local average.

Pricing may change:

Although I wish I could already own all the equipment I need, I don’t. Some sessions may require additional equipment or help. Some possible charges not included in this hourly rate may be:

  • Equipment rentals (if specialized gear is required)
  • Permit or location fees
  • Additional photographers
View Packages and Pricing

What Does the Photographer Do After The First Call?

  1. Proposal Preparation
    • Includes session time, date, and any additional equipment needs
  2. Detailed Planning
    • Location scouting & parking, if needed
    • Vision board creation & shot list
    • Research tailored to your session type
    • Color scheme recommendations
  3. Day‑Of Coordination
    • Seamless shoot execution
    • On‑the‑spot image selection (optional), headshots sessions require this

What Should The Customer Expect or Do After The First Call?

  1. If you have a vision in mind, share some examples.
  2. Keep open communication. If you have a question or concern, shoot me a text or call. Often times ideas come up after the first call.
  3. An emailed proposal. Included in this proposal will be date and time, location, expected picture quantity, estimated time of delivery, and pricing.
  4. A vision board and shotlist created by the photographer.

Best picture spots in San Diego

My list is always growing—know a hidden gem? Let’s meet you there with my camera!

  • Balboa Park
  • Belmont Park
  • La Jolla Cove
  • Little Italy
  • Mission Beach
  • Ocean Beach
  • Old Town San Diego
  • Pacific Beach
  • Sunset Cliffs
  • Torrey Pines State Reserve
  • Windansea Beach
  • USS Midway Museum

San Diego Photographer – Xavier Chavez

Hey, my name is Xavier. A local San Diego photographer. I fell in love with this city the moment I arrived. The San Diego beaches and scenery, weather, and the food made a strong impression. As a photographer, I quickly learned that San Diego offers an endless amount of amazing locations and amazing people. When I’m not on a shoot, you’ll find me networking across town, handling the behind‑the‑scenes work of my small business, or scouting new locations for future sessions.

San Diego Photographer Frequently Asked Questions

How are payments made?
Securely via HoneyBook using debit, credit, or bank transfer. A 50% deposit secures your photo session date and time; the balance is due the day after your session. If any reschedules need to be made, please contact me asap.

When will I receive my pictures from my photo session?
Your fully edited gallery will be ready 3–5 business days after our shoot.

How do I access my pictures?
Each session has its own gallery page on my site:

You sessions link typically ends with your first name and last initial or your business name.

Can I book a 30 minute session? Will it be half price?
Yes, shorter sessions are possible. We’ll discuss a fair rate based on your needs and session complexity. But I cannot guarantee the rate will change, it may even have to be increased.

How many pictures should I expect from a one photo session with you?
I aim to deliver about 20 high-quality images per hour.

What is the average hourly rate for a photographer in San Diego?

The average hourly rate ranges from $450-$800 for a photographer in San Diego.

What is a day rate?
A day rate means there will be a longer photography session. An 8‑hour “day rate” typically ranges from $3,000 to $8,000, depending on the scope of your photo session. Events, weddings, branding sessions, or content creation usually require more planning, editing, etc. I can do my best to accommodate your budget while also clearly keeping in mind your goals.

Why is hiring a photographer in San Diego so expensive?
Professional photography involves significant investment in gear, software, marketing, insurance, and expertise. Though rates may seem high at first glance, they aim to reflect the value you receive as well as the photographer’s expenses.

Should I tip my photographer?
Tips are appreciated but entirely optional.

Is hiring a professional photographer in San Diego worth it?
Absolutely! I will try to be brief as the benefits of a professional photographer warrants its own article. Quality pictures display the love you have for your family, your loved ones, yourself, or your business. Pictures that are clear, vibrant, and have amazing composition capture and draw attention like nothing else.