Orange County Wedding Photographer & Videographer

More than beautiful pictures.
Remember how it felt.
Wedding story direction · Emotional documentation · A premium experience
Check Your Date
Hello, I'm Jesse

Your Orange County wedding photographer, calm and by your side

As an Orange County wedding photographer, I bring calm, balanced and positive energy to your whole wedding day. Jesse Madison Photography is a family-run studio. For 10 years, we've paired gentle wedding-day direction with honest, emotional storytelling.

Our photographs don't just show you what your wedding looked like. They help you remember exactly how it felt.

I wrote about this approach in my book, Modern Wedding Storytelling. In short, I'm here to document your day in the most beautiful and meaningful way possible, from the smallest details to the biggest moments.

— Jesse

Meet Jesse
  • Recognized by
  • The Knot Hall of Fame
  • Best of The Knot 2020–2024
  • WeddingWire Couples' Choice
  • #1 on WeddingRule
Wedding Story Direction

You enjoy the day. We help tell the story.

Great wedding photos start long before the ceremony. So we plan with you, then quietly guide the day, without making it feel like a photo shoot.

A photography-friendly timeline

Together, we build a timeline around the best light at your venue. That way, nothing feels rushed and you get time with your guests.

Anticipating the moments

We know where to stand before the moment happens. First looks, toasts, the grand exit: we're already in place, so you never have to repeat a thing.

Portraits, planned efficiently

Family photos and couple portraits move quickly with a clear plan. As a result, you get the photographs that matter most and still enjoy your cocktail hour.

What Sets Us Apart

Emotional documentation, alongside the art

Some of the most important photographs aren't planned.

They're the tears your father tries to hide. The look between you and your best friend. The people you love, celebrating you.

We look for those moments, and we preserve them next to the portraits, details and beautiful images you'll want to frame. Let's create something you'll still love looking at 25 years from now.

Recent Celebrations

Orange County wedding photographer portfolio

From harbor views in Dana Point to golf club ballrooms in Coto de Caza, here are a few recent weddings close to home.

Our Signature Look

How we bring your vision to life

Lighting is our signature. It's what sets our work apart, and it's why our photos and films look consistent from getting ready to the last dance.

  • Lighting magic

    Whether it's soft natural light or perfectly diffused flash, I use light to make every shot flattering and full of emotion.

  • Portrait perfection

    From bridal portraits to romantic couple shots, I give you easy posing tips and professional lighting, so you and your wedding party look amazing.

  • Creative bokeh

    That dreamy, creamy background? That's me. It keeps the focus on you, whether it's the two of you, the details or the big moments.

  • Tailored to your day

    After all, no two weddings are the same. That's why I adapt to every setting, from prep time to the last dance, so each moment looks its best.

  • Low light, no problem

    Plus, even in a dim reception hall, our low-light cameras and lenses capture clear, crisp images with natural skin tones and no yellow cast.

Awards & Features

An award-winning Orange County wedding photographer & film team

Consistency has always been our focus. Our couples' numerous 5-star reviews have earned us these honors, and we're grateful for every one.

The Knot

Hall of Fame

Awarded for both our photo and video services.

The Knot

Best of The Knot

Six consecutive years: 2020, 2021, 2022, 2023, 2024 and 2025.

WeddingWire

Couples' Choice Award

Six years running, 2020 through 2025, based on reviews from our past couples.

WeddingRule

#1 Editor's Choice

Ranked first in the Top 10 Orange County Wedding Photographers.

Wedding Pioneer

Top 16 in Orange County

Featured among the top photographers in Orange County.

Breezit

Top in SoCal, 2025

Selected for Top Wedding Photographers in Southern California.

Kind Words
“If you’re looking for a team that is professional, talented, and genuinely cares about your experience, I highly recommend Jesse and his team. They delivered more than just photos and videos; they gave us memories we’ll be able to relive forever. ”
Andy and Janet · 3/28/26

Read More Reviews

Investment

Photography & film, tailored to you

Every collection includes your full online gallery, delivered within 1-2 weeks of your wedding. Our larger collections add a second photographer, an engagement session or a wedding album.

Collections begin at $1995

Explore Collections
FAQ

Questions for your Orange County wedding photographer

How much does a wedding photographer in Orange County cost?

Wedding photography in Orange County usually ranges from $2,000 to $10,000+, depending on experience, reputation and what's included. With 10 years of experience, we price our collections competitively to give you incredible value. See our pricing.

How far in advance should we book?

Most couples book their photographer 9–12 months ahead, especially for spring through fall. Once you've set your date and venue, reach out early so you don't miss out.

How soon will we get our photos?

Most photographers deliver in 4–8 weeks. However, we deliver your full gallery within 1–2 weeks of your wedding date.

Do we need a second photographer?

We recommend one for weddings over 100 guests or with more than one location. A second photographer captures both of you getting ready, plus extra angles during the ceremony and reception.

What if we're uncomfortable in front of the camera?

First of all, that's very common, and it's exactly what we're good at. We give gentle direction instead of stiff poses. Also, an engagement session is a great way to get comfortable before the big day.

Will you help with our wedding day timeline?

Yes. I'll help you build a photography-friendly timeline, so you get every important shot without feeling rushed.

Do you travel outside Orange County?

Yes. We regularly photograph weddings all over Southern California. We have also shot weddings in other US states. Travel fees may apply depending on distance.

Let's tell your story

Let's create something you'll still love looking at 25 years from now.

Check Your Date or call 949-306-8416
@jessemadisonphotography
Orange County Wedding Photographer

@jessemadisonphotography

Husband & Wife Team Authentic, Timeless & Beautiful Awarded #1 Wedding Photographer in OC -Weddingrule.com The Knot Hall of Fame Free album included
  • Golden hour at Victoria Beach and one very important question. So happy for James & Jen! #lagunabeachweddingphotographer #victoriabeachengagement #ocweddingphotographer
  • A huge thank you to Christina for the 5-star review after her beautiful wedding at Mission Basilica San Juan Capistrano! ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
It was such an honor to capture the love, emotion, and unforgettable moments of Christina and her family on such a special day. Mission Basilica is one of the most beautiful and historic wedding venues in Southern California, and it was an absolute joy to document their wedding story there.
As a Southern California wedding photographer, reviews like Christina’s mean so much to me. My goal is always to create timeless wedding photography while making sure my couples feel comfortable, confident, and truly enjoy their day.
Thank you, Christina, for trusting me to be your Mission Basilica wedding photographer! 
Looking for a Mission Basilica San Juan Capistrano wedding photographer or a wedding photographer in Orange County? I’d love to tell your story.
#MissionBasilica #MissionBasilicaWedding #MissionSanJuanCapistrano #SanJuanCapistranoWeddingPhotographer
  • So excited to celebrate with these two! Congratulations on your engagement! I can’t wait to capture your wedding day as you say “I do” at The Estate on Second on 9-25-26. It’s going to be an unforgettable day, and I’m honored to be a part of your story. Here’s to the countdown! Cheers!
#Engaged #FutureMrAndMrs #OrangeCountyWeddingPhotographer  #JustEngaged #lagunabeachweddingphotographer
  • A Beautiful Celebration at Celebrations Event Venue in Costa Mesa
Brenda and Chris said “I do” surrounded by their closest family and friends. Then celebrated at the beautiful @thecelebrationsvenue in Costa Mesa, and every part of their wedding day was filled with genuine emotion, laughter, and unforgettable moments.
From their heartfelt ceremony to an incredible night of dancing, this wedding reminded me why I love documenting authentic love stories. Every wedding has its own unique personality, and Brenda & Chris’s day was the perfect blend of elegance, fun, and meaningful moments.
If you’re searching for a Costa Mesa wedding photographer who captures natural, timeless images that tell the complete story of your wedding day, I’d love to be part of your celebration.
Congratulations, Brenda & Chris! Wishing you both a lifetime of happiness together.
Venue: Celebrations Event Venue | Costa Mesa, California Photo and video by @jessemadisonphotography 
#CostaMesaWeddingPhotographer #CostaMesaWedding #CelebrationsEventVenue #CelebrationsCostaMesa #OrangeCountyWeddingPhotographer OrangeCountyWedding SoCalWeddingPhotographer CaliforniaWeddingPhotographer WeddingPhotography BrideAndGroom WeddingInspiration WeddingDay JustMarried LoveStory OCWedding CostaMesaBride WeddingPhotos WeddingPortraits WeddingReception
  • Sarah & Kevin’s Mission San Juan Capistrano wedding was the kind of day every wedding photographer loves to capture..
We started their portrait session right at the Mission — golden stone archways, cascading bougainvillea, and that soft California light bouncing off centuries-old adobe walls. Sarah’s dress looked amazing and Kevin couldn’t stop smiling the entire time.
As a wedding photographer based near San Juan Capistrano, I get to shoot at this historic Mission often, and it never fails to produce iconic images. The textures, the history, the light and overall feel all add to the ambience. It’s one of the most romantic backdrops in Southern California for couples saying “I do.”
Huge congratulations to Sarah & Kevin. Thank you for trusting me with your day!
Contact us when considering a session at Mission San Juan Capistrano for your wedding day.
 📸 JesseMadisonPhotography
#missionsanjuancapistrano #sanjuancapistranowedding #sanjuancapistranoweddingphotographer #missionsanjuancapistranowedding #ocweddingphotographer orangecountyweddingphotographer californiaweddingphotographer sanjuancapistrano scwedding realwedding weddingphotography ocbride socalwedding destinationweddingphotographer
  • A Squishmallow wedding in Huntington Beach? Absolutely!!!
Desi and Mark brought their love for @Squishmallows into every detail of their wedding day, creating one of the most unique and personal celebrations we’ve photographed. From custom décor to playful touches throughout the day, this Huntington Beach wedding was filled with personality, laughter, and a whole lot of Squishmallow magic.
If you’re planning a themed wedding, this is proof that your wedding should reflect who you are as a couple.

#squishmallowwedding at the Hilton @waterfrontbeachresort in HB. #ocweddingphotographer #squishmallowsofinstagram #orangecountyweddingvideographer #squishmallow Instagram handles: 

Venue: @waterfrontbeachresort
Coordinator: @chicproductions
Decor: @vogue_bash 
Photo and video @jessemadisonphotography Dessert:  @sweettraders
  • Loved shooting this beautiful couple at @missionsanjuancapistrano and what a gorgeous ceremony at @missionbasilica for Christina and Henry. Congratulations!!!
#sanjuancapistranoweddingphotographer #ocweddingphotographer #missionsanjuancapistranoweddingphotographer #missionsjcweddings #sjcweddingphotographer
  • Christ Cathedral Engagement Photos | Perla & Ron

Some love stories stop you in your tracks — and Perl & Ron’s is one of them. 

We spent a golden afternoon at Christ Cathedral in Garden Grove, CA, and every single frame was a gift. If you’ve never visited Christ Cathedral, imagine soaring glass walls, sweeping architecture, and grounds that glow in the Southern California sun. As a backdrop for engagement photography, it is absolutely unmatched.

This couple is the definition of faith-centered love. From the very first conversation, it was clear that their spirituality isn’t separate from their relationship.

Perla & Ron, it is the greatest honor to document your love story. 

Looking for a photographer for your Christ Cathedral engagement session or wedding? Send me a message — I’d love to be there for your story. 

.
.
.
#ChristCathedralEngagement #ChristCathedralWedding #GardenGrovePhotographer #OrangeCountyEngagementPhotographer #SoCalEngagementPhotos FaithCenteredLove ChurchEngagementPhotos OrangeCountyWedding SoCalWeddingPhotographer CathedralEngagement ChristianCouple SpiritualEngagement EngagementPhotographySoCal RootedInFaith OrangeCountyBride
  • Andy and Janet truly enjoyed celebrating with all their loved ones and danced the night away. Congrats to the newlyweds! #ocweddingphotographer #ocweddingvideographer #orangecountyweddingvideographer #gardengroveweddingphotographer #fountainvalleyweddingphotographer
Golden hour at Victoria Beach and one very important question. So happy for James & Jen! #lagunabeachweddingphotographer #victoriabeachengagement #ocweddingphotographer
1 week ago
View on Instagram |
1/9
A huge thank you to Christina for the 5-star review after her beautiful wedding at Mission Basilica San Juan Capistrano! ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
It was such an honor to capture the love, emotion, and unforgettable moments of Christina and her family on such a special day. Mission Basilica is one of the most beautiful and historic wedding venues in Southern California, and it was an absolute joy to document their wedding story there.
As a Southern California wedding photographer, reviews like Christina’s mean so much to me. My goal is always to create timeless wedding photography while making sure my couples feel comfortable, confident, and truly enjoy their day.
Thank you, Christina, for trusting me to be your Mission Basilica wedding photographer! 
Looking for a Mission Basilica San Juan Capistrano wedding photographer or a wedding photographer in Orange County? I’d love to tell your story.
#MissionBasilica #MissionBasilicaWedding #MissionSanJuanCapistrano #SanJuanCapistranoWeddingPhotographer
A huge thank you to Christina for the 5-star review after her beautiful wedding at Mission Basilica San Juan Capistrano! ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
It was such an honor to capture the love, emotion, and unforgettable moments of Christina and her family on such a special day. Mission Basilica is one of the most beautiful and historic wedding venues in Southern California, and it was an absolute joy to document their wedding story there.
As a Southern California wedding photographer, reviews like Christina’s mean so much to me. My goal is always to create timeless wedding photography while making sure my couples feel comfortable, confident, and truly enjoy their day.
Thank you, Christina, for trusting me to be your Mission Basilica wedding photographer! 
Looking for a Mission Basilica San Juan Capistrano wedding photographer or a wedding photographer in Orange County? I’d love to tell your story.
#MissionBasilica #MissionBasilicaWedding #MissionSanJuanCapistrano #SanJuanCapistranoWeddingPhotographer
A huge thank you to Christina for the 5-star review after her beautiful wedding at Mission Basilica San Juan Capistrano! ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
It was such an honor to capture the love, emotion, and unforgettable moments of Christina and her family on such a special day. Mission Basilica is one of the most beautiful and historic wedding venues in Southern California, and it was an absolute joy to document their wedding story there.
As a Southern California wedding photographer, reviews like Christina’s mean so much to me. My goal is always to create timeless wedding photography while making sure my couples feel comfortable, confident, and truly enjoy their day.
Thank you, Christina, for trusting me to be your Mission Basilica wedding photographer! 
Looking for a Mission Basilica San Juan Capistrano wedding photographer or a wedding photographer in Orange County? I’d love to tell your story.
#MissionBasilica #MissionBasilicaWedding #MissionSanJuanCapistrano #SanJuanCapistranoWeddingPhotographer
A huge thank you to Christina for the 5-star review after her beautiful wedding at Mission Basilica San Juan Capistrano! ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
It was such an honor to capture the love, emotion, and unforgettable moments of Christina and her family on such a special day. Mission Basilica is one of the most beautiful and historic wedding venues in Southern California, and it was an absolute joy to document their wedding story there.
As a Southern California wedding photographer, reviews like Christina’s mean so much to me. My goal is always to create timeless wedding photography while making sure my couples feel comfortable, confident, and truly enjoy their day.
Thank you, Christina, for trusting me to be your Mission Basilica wedding photographer! 
Looking for a Mission Basilica San Juan Capistrano wedding photographer or a wedding photographer in Orange County? I’d love to tell your story.
#MissionBasilica #MissionBasilicaWedding #MissionSanJuanCapistrano #SanJuanCapistranoWeddingPhotographer
A huge thank you to Christina for the 5-star review after her beautiful wedding at Mission Basilica San Juan Capistrano! ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
It was such an honor to capture the love, emotion, and unforgettable moments of Christina and her family on such a special day. Mission Basilica is one of the most beautiful and historic wedding venues in Southern California, and it was an absolute joy to document their wedding story there.
As a Southern California wedding photographer, reviews like Christina’s mean so much to me. My goal is always to create timeless wedding photography while making sure my couples feel comfortable, confident, and truly enjoy their day.
Thank you, Christina, for trusting me to be your Mission Basilica wedding photographer! 
Looking for a Mission Basilica San Juan Capistrano wedding photographer or a wedding photographer in Orange County? I’d love to tell your story.
#MissionBasilica #MissionBasilicaWedding #MissionSanJuanCapistrano #SanJuanCapistranoWeddingPhotographer
A huge thank you to Christina for the 5-star review after her beautiful wedding at Mission Basilica San Juan Capistrano! ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
It was such an honor to capture the love, emotion, and unforgettable moments of Christina and her family on such a special day. Mission Basilica is one of the most beautiful and historic wedding venues in Southern California, and it was an absolute joy to document their wedding story there.
As a Southern California wedding photographer, reviews like Christina’s mean so much to me. My goal is always to create timeless wedding photography while making sure my couples feel comfortable, confident, and truly enjoy their day.
Thank you, Christina, for trusting me to be your Mission Basilica wedding photographer! 
Looking for a Mission Basilica San Juan Capistrano wedding photographer or a wedding photographer in Orange County? I’d love to tell your story.
#MissionBasilica #MissionBasilicaWedding #MissionSanJuanCapistrano #SanJuanCapistranoWeddingPhotographer
A huge thank you to Christina for the 5-star review after her beautiful wedding at Mission Basilica San Juan Capistrano! ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ It was such an honor to capture the love, emotion, and unforgettable moments of Christina and her family on such a special day. Mission Basilica is one of the most beautiful and historic wedding venues in Southern California, and it was an absolute joy to document their wedding story there. As a Southern California wedding photographer, reviews like Christina’s mean so much to me. My goal is always to create timeless wedding photography while making sure my couples feel comfortable, confident, and truly enjoy their day. Thank you, Christina, for trusting me to be your Mission Basilica wedding photographer! Looking for a Mission Basilica San Juan Capistrano wedding photographer or a wedding photographer in Orange County? I’d love to tell your story. #MissionBasilica #MissionBasilicaWedding #MissionSanJuanCapistrano #SanJuanCapistranoWeddingPhotographer
2 months ago
View on Instagram |
2/9
So excited to celebrate with these two! Congratulations on your engagement! I can’t wait to capture your wedding day as you say “I do” at The Estate on Second on 9-25-26. It’s going to be an unforgettable day, and I’m honored to be a part of your story. Here’s to the countdown! Cheers! #Engaged #FutureMrAndMrs #OrangeCountyWeddingPhotographer #JustEngaged #lagunabeachweddingphotographer
2 months ago
View on Instagram |
3/9
A Beautiful Celebration at Celebrations Event Venue in Costa Mesa Brenda and Chris said “I do” surrounded by their closest family and friends. Then celebrated at the beautiful @thecelebrationsvenue in Costa Mesa, and every part of their wedding day was filled with genuine emotion, laughter, and unforgettable moments. From their heartfelt ceremony to an incredible night of dancing, this wedding reminded me why I love documenting authentic love stories. Every wedding has its own unique personality, and Brenda & Chris’s day was the perfect blend of elegance, fun, and meaningful moments. If you’re searching for a Costa Mesa wedding photographer who captures natural, timeless images that tell the complete story of your wedding day, I’d love to be part of your celebration. Congratulations, Brenda & Chris! Wishing you both a lifetime of happiness together. Venue: Celebrations Event Venue | Costa Mesa, California Photo and video by @jessemadisonphotography #CostaMesaWeddingPhotographer #CostaMesaWedding #CelebrationsEventVenue #CelebrationsCostaMesa #OrangeCountyWeddingPhotographer OrangeCountyWedding SoCalWeddingPhotographer CaliforniaWeddingPhotographer WeddingPhotography BrideAndGroom WeddingInspiration WeddingDay JustMarried LoveStory OCWedding CostaMesaBride WeddingPhotos WeddingPortraits WeddingReception
2 months ago
View on Instagram |
4/9
Sarah & Kevin’s Mission San Juan Capistrano wedding was the kind of day every wedding photographer loves to capture.. We started their portrait session right at the Mission — golden stone archways, cascading bougainvillea, and that soft California light bouncing off centuries-old adobe walls. Sarah’s dress looked amazing and Kevin couldn’t stop smiling the entire time. As a wedding photographer based near San Juan Capistrano, I get to shoot at this historic Mission often, and it never fails to produce iconic images. The textures, the history, the light and overall feel all add to the ambience. It’s one of the most romantic backdrops in Southern California for couples saying “I do.” Huge congratulations to Sarah & Kevin. Thank you for trusting me with your day! Contact us when considering a session at Mission San Juan Capistrano for your wedding day. 📸 JesseMadisonPhotography #missionsanjuancapistrano #sanjuancapistranowedding #sanjuancapistranoweddingphotographer #missionsanjuancapistranowedding #ocweddingphotographer orangecountyweddingphotographer californiaweddingphotographer sanjuancapistrano scwedding realwedding weddingphotography ocbride socalwedding destinationweddingphotographer
3 months ago
View on Instagram |
5/9
A Squishmallow wedding in Huntington Beach? Absolutely!!! Desi and Mark brought their love for @Squishmallows into every detail of their wedding day, creating one of the most unique and personal celebrations we’ve photographed. From custom décor to playful touches throughout the day, this Huntington Beach wedding was filled with personality, laughter, and a whole lot of Squishmallow magic. If you’re planning a themed wedding, this is proof that your wedding should reflect who you are as a couple. #squishmallowwedding at the Hilton @waterfrontbeachresort in HB. #ocweddingphotographer #squishmallowsofinstagram #orangecountyweddingvideographer #squishmallow Instagram handles: Venue: @waterfrontbeachresort Coordinator: @chicproductions Decor: @vogue_bash Photo and video @jessemadisonphotography Dessert: @sweettraders
4 months ago
View on Instagram |
6/9
Loved shooting this beautiful couple at @missionsanjuancapistrano and what a gorgeous ceremony at @missionbasilica for Christina and Henry. Congratulations!!! #sanjuancapistranoweddingphotographer #ocweddingphotographer #missionsanjuancapistranoweddingphotographer #missionsjcweddings #sjcweddingphotographer
4 months ago
View on Instagram |
7/9
Christ Cathedral Engagement Photos | Perla & Ron Some love stories stop you in your tracks — and Perl & Ron’s is one of them. We spent a golden afternoon at Christ Cathedral in Garden Grove, CA, and every single frame was a gift. If you’ve never visited Christ Cathedral, imagine soaring glass walls, sweeping architecture, and grounds that glow in the Southern California sun. As a backdrop for engagement photography, it is absolutely unmatched. This couple is the definition of faith-centered love. From the very first conversation, it was clear that their spirituality isn’t separate from their relationship. Perla & Ron, it is the greatest honor to document your love story. Looking for a photographer for your Christ Cathedral engagement session or wedding? Send me a message — I’d love to be there for your story. . . . #ChristCathedralEngagement #ChristCathedralWedding #GardenGrovePhotographer #OrangeCountyEngagementPhotographer #SoCalEngagementPhotos FaithCenteredLove ChurchEngagementPhotos OrangeCountyWedding SoCalWeddingPhotographer CathedralEngagement ChristianCouple SpiritualEngagement EngagementPhotographySoCal RootedInFaith OrangeCountyBride
6 months ago
View on Instagram |
8/9
Andy and Janet truly enjoyed celebrating with all their loved ones and danced the night away. Congrats to the newlyweds! #ocweddingphotographer #ocweddingvideographer #orangecountyweddingvideographer #gardengroveweddingphotographer #fountainvalleyweddingphotographer
6 months ago
View on Instagram |
9/9