Historic Orange County Courthouse Wedding in Santa Ana | Civil Ceremony Photography
For couples planning a courthouse wedding in Orange County, the Old Orange County Courthouse in Santa Ana is one of the most beautiful and historic places to say “I do.”
Located in the heart of downtown Santa Ana, this courthouse is known for its stunning Romanesque architecture, red sandstone exterior, and historic charm, making it one of the most photographed courthouse wedding locations in Southern California.
At Last Minute Photoshoot, we’ve photographed courthouse weddings throughout Southern California, but the Santa Ana Historic Courthouse stands out for couples who want a civil ceremony that still feels timeless and elegant.
If you're planning an Orange County courthouse wedding, here’s what you can expect when getting married at this iconic location.
Historic Orange County Courthouse Wedding in Santa Ana | Civil Ceremony Photography shows how even the simplest ceremonies deserve thoughtful planning and careful documentation. From guiding the timing of the ceremony to capturing the quiet moments just outside the courthouse steps, we help couples preserve their civil wedding day with calm direction and experienced photography.
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A Brief History of the Old Orange County Courthouse
Built in 1901, the Old Orange County Courthouse is one of the oldest and most recognizable buildings in Santa Ana. The courthouse was designed in the Richardsonian Romanesque style, featuring large stone arches, intricate brickwork, and a dramatic clock tower that gives the building its signature look.
Although it no longer operates as a traditional courthouse, the building is still used for civil ceremonies and special events, making it a unique place for couples who want a courthouse wedding with historic character.
For couples who want something simple but visually beautiful, the Old Orange County Courthouse offers an incredible backdrop for wedding photos.
Our Experience Photographing Courthouse Weddings in Santa Ana
One of the things couples love most about getting married at the Santa Ana Historic Courthouse is how smooth the process is.
On the day of the ceremony, couples typically check in, complete the paperwork, and are guided through a short but meaningful civil ceremony.
While the ceremony itself is simple, the surrounding architecture gives couples the opportunity to capture timeless courthouse wedding portraits both inside and outside the building.
After the ceremony, we usually take couples around the courthouse grounds to capture a variety of photos, including:
• Just-married portraits on the courthouse steps
• Romantic photos beneath the historic arches
• Walking shots along the courthouse exterior
• Candid celebration moments with family and friends
Because of the courthouse’s historic design, almost every corner provides a beautiful background for photos.
Best Photo Locations Around the Santa Ana Historic Courthouse
One of the biggest advantages of this courthouse is the number of photo opportunities within walking distance.
Some of our favorite spots include:
The Courthouse Steps
A classic place for just-married photos right after the ceremony.
Historic Brick Arches
Perfect for romantic portraits with dramatic architectural framing.
Downtown Santa Ana Streets
Just a short walk away, the surrounding streets offer charming urban backdrops.
Courthouse Lawn and Exterior Walkways
Great for natural walking shots and relaxed portraits after the ceremony.
These locations make it easy to turn a quick courthouse ceremony into a beautiful mini wedding photo session.
Making Your Courthouse Wedding Feel Like a Real Celebration
Many couples assume courthouse weddings are quick and purely administrative.
But the truth is, courthouse weddings can feel just as special and meaningful as any traditional wedding.
Some couples choose to bring:
• A bouquet or boutonniere
• Close family members as witnesses
• Champagne or sparkling wine for photos after the ceremony
• A second photo location nearby
These simple additions help transform a courthouse wedding into a memorable experience.
And the photos tell the story of the entire day.
Wedding Season Is Around the Corner
With wedding season approaching in Southern California, many couples are choosing courthouse weddings because they offer a simple, stress-free way to get married without months of planning.
To celebrate our love for last-minute courthouse weddings, we’re offering a limited-time courthouse wedding photography special for couples planning civil ceremonies this season.
Whether you're planning your ceremony weeks in advance or just a few days before, our team is experienced in helping couples capture their wedding day beautifully.
Planning a Courthouse Wedding in Orange County?
If you're getting married at the Old Orange County Courthouse in Santa Ana, we’d love to help document your day.
At Last Minute Photoshoot, we specialize in photographing:
• Courthouse weddings
• Civil ceremonies
• Elopements
• Intimate wedding celebrations
We make the process simple so you can focus on enjoying the moment.
From the ceremony to just-married portraits around the courthouse, we’ll help capture the story of your day.
Start Planning Your Courthouse Wedding
If you're planning a courthouse wedding at the Santa Ana Historic Courthouse or anywhere in Orange County, tell us a little about your ceremony below.
Share your ceremony date, courthouse location, and any details about your plans.
We’ll review everything and get back to you shortly to confirm availability and next steps.
Because even the simplest wedding deserves incredible photos.
