San Francisco City Hall Ceremonies
Simple yet Grand
San Francisco City Hall is one of my favorite wedding venues. Its stunning architecture and timeless elegance draw couples from all over the world. I've had the privilege of photographing over 80 civil ceremonies here, and I know every detail—where to park, where to go, how long things take, and the best spots for perfect lighting. You can trust that I’ll capture your special moments flawlessly and ensure your wedding day runs smoothly, all at an affordable price.
FAQ – SF City Hall Guide and Tips
WHEN IS THE BEST TIME?
Generally, the best time is early in the morning (8-9:30am) or after 3:30PM. Fridays generally are the busiest day of the week, and usually, the City Hall is quietest on Tuesday and Wednesday. During the busier times there may be tourist there, but don’t worry! I’ll be able to navigate the best spots in the City Hall that is quite for amazing photos.
HOW MANY GUEST CAN I BRING TO SF CITY HALL CEREMONY?
City Hall website usually advises a six guest for the Rotunda Ceremony, but I’ve seen it up to 20 people without any issues. One-hour (private) weddings permit up to 100 guests. Two-hour (private) weddings permit up to 200 guests with an extra fee for each guest.
CAN YOU BE OUR WITNESS?
Of course! Generally, one witness needs to be present during the ceremony. This witness must accompany you before the ceremony when you check in to Room 168 before your ceremony time. If it’s just going to be the two of you, as your photographer, I would be honored to act as your witness!
CAN WE HAVE YOU COVER OUR CEREMONY AND RECEPTION DINNER/LUNCH?
Yes of course! We can shoot the ceremony at the City Hall, do a quick portrait session elsewhere in the city and get some shots at the reception and all depends on how much coverage you would like!
WHERE SHOULD WE GO FOR OUR SECOND LOCATION IF WE CHOOSE TO?
There are a lot of great locations to shoot around San Francisco which is an absolutely beautiful city. Here are some locations: Legion of Honors, Crissy Fields, Fort Point, Palace of Fine Arts, Golden Gate Bridge, Baker beach!
WE CAN ONLY BOOK SF CITY HALL CEREMONY 90 DAYS IN ADVANCE, CAN WE BOOK YOU EARLIER?
Of course! Just go to the City Hall website and make reservations exactly 90 days prior to lock in your time slot.
WHAT IS THE BEST SPOT TO GET MARRIED INSIDE THE BUILDING FOR A SAN FRANCISCO CITY HALL WEDDING?
Most weekday San Francisco City Hall wedding ceremonies take place in The Rotunda, which is the beautiful public space on top of the grand staircase. The lighting on the 4th-floor balcony is probably my favorite in the whole City Hall. If you’d like a more private setting or if you’re having a lot of guests it’s also possible to rent the Mayor’s Balcony, North Fourth Floor Balcony, and South Fourth Floor Balcony. They can allow up to 100 guest which is great If you have larger partiess
DO YOU DO VIDEOGRAPHY COVERAGE?
Yes, I do! Check out my wedding videography page. Please reach out for a custom quote if you are looking for video or video + photo package
HOW AND WHEN DO WE GET THE PHOTOS?
I usually have the photos edited and sent over within one week. Most other photographers can take four to six weeks, but I limit the number of ceremonies I take so can focus on each individual client. I will upload them to a private online website where you can view, save, share, and print.
HOW MANY PHOTOS WILL WE GET?
Anywhere from 80-100 an hour, all depends on the variety of content, and a mixture of color and black and white.
DO I HAVE FULL DOWNLOAD RIGHTS?
You’ll have full printing rights to your wedding photos. The full resolution images can be printed, shared, and used for any personal purpose.
BOOKING PROCESS
We’ll hop on a quick call to discuss what you are looking for and I can walk you through the whole process. After that, I’ll send you a quick online contract form to fill out and require a 25% retainer that can be sent over to lock in the date. Rest of the amount is due on day of the event.