Big Sur, Carmel & Monterey Photographer for Proposals, Engagements, Elopements & Boudoir

Emotive, editorial-style photography for couples and individuals in Big Sur, Carmel-by-the-Sea, and Monterey, California. Whether you're celebrating a once-in-a-lifetime moment or simply honoring who you are right now, I’m here to help you create art that feels like you.

PROPOSALS

BOUDOIR

BRANDING

MONTEREY * BIG SUR * CARMEL BY THE SEA * BEYOND

SERVING

Erin Venable, a Big Sur and Carmel photographer, smiling in natural light at her Monterey studio.

Hi there, I’m Erin.

A Monterey-based photographer passionate about creating experiences that are just as meaningful as the images we make.

Whether you're planning a cliffside elopement in Big Sur, a dreamy engagement session in Carmel or a confidence-boosting boudoir shoot in Monterey, I’ll be your photographer, wardrobe guide and storytelling partner. My goal is to help you feel seen, confident and completely in the moment — so your photos are more than just beautiful… they’re deeply personal.

Couples.

I specialize in one-of-a-kind proposals, engagements, intimate elopements, and small weddings across the California coast. No stiff posing — just real moments, natural light, and emotion.

Couples - Elopements - Small Weddings

Individuals.

Let’s celebrate you. I offer empowering boudoir, maternity, bridal and personal portrait sessions in-studio or outdoors. This is your time to shine.

Boudoir - Maternity - Bridals - Portraits

Why Clients Love Working With Me

Because your story deserves to be told with authenticity, artistry, and care. My clients often say they feel relaxed, confident, and seen — whether we’re hiking to a Big Sur overlook, chasing light on the Carmel coast, or styling a boudoir session in my Monterey studio.

My approach is calm, cinematic, and connection-led. I don’t just take photos — I help you experience your moment with intention and ease.

Carmel-by-the-Sea photographer

 

WHAT SETS ME APART FROM THE REST.

Personal session curation

Expert location scouting (hidden Big Sur gems included!)

Wardrobe guidance for authentic editorial looks

Connection-led posing & emotion-rich storytelling

Hand-edited, cinematic gallery delivery

Capturing

Natural, editorial-style photography. From Big Sur proposals to dreamy Carmel engagements.

Documenting wildly romantic, soul-filled ceremonies in Big Sur, Carmel-by-the-Sea, and Monterey.

Empowering, cinematic portraits — in my Cannery Row studio or outdoors — designed to make you feel confident and radiant.

Natural, editorial-style photography that captures the moment you ask — and they say yes — in the wild beauty of Big Sur, Carmel, and Monterey.

Clean, expressive imagery for creatives, couples, and business owners who want portraits that reflect who they truly are.

As seen on

bites and tickles for photographers
dirty boots messy hair feature
beloved stories community feature
minted weddings feature
rock n roll bride magazine feature

Testimonials

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Testimonials

Testimonials •

  • Carmel Elopement

    “We eloped in Carmel-by-the-Sea and Erin captured every moment so beautifully. Her calm energy and attention to detail made the whole day stress-free. She even helped us pick the location and secure a permit. I still can’t believe how much she captured in just a few hours. Highly recommend her for Carmel elopement photography!”
    – Tristin & Billy

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Every package includes.

Ready to start planning your dream session? Whether it's a Big Sur proposal, a Monterey boudoir session or a Carmel engagement, I'm here to help you every step of the way — location scouting, styling and creating images you’ll treasure forever.

Interested in working together? Fill out some info and I will be in touch shortly! I can't wait to hear from you!

FAQs

  • I specialize in engagements, elopements, boudoir and portrait photography, capturing love stories, confidence, and authentic moments.

  • I’m based in Monterey and Carmel, California, but I frequently shoot in Big Sur. I love traveling for elopements and destination shoots—let's chat about your dream location!

  • My style is a blend of documentary and editorial, capturing authentic moments.. I focus on natural light, moody edits and creating a relaxed atmosphere.

  • For elopements and weddings, I recommend booking at least 3-6 months in advance. Portraits and boudoir sessions typically book 2-3 months ahead. However, last-minute openings may be available!

  • My packages include a set number of hours, high-resolution edited images, a private online gallery and location & wardrobe guidance. Some packages also include a custom timeline and vendor recommendations.

  • Yes! I have extensive knowledge of some of the most stunning locations and can guide you through the necessary permits to ensure a smooth experience.

  • To book, simply fill out my contact form, and I’ll be in touch to discuss details. A signed contract and a retainer fee are required to secure your date.

  • Yes! I offer flexible payment plans for most packages. Let me know what works best for you!

  • My typical turnaround time is:

    • Portraits & boudoir: 3-4 weeks

    • Elopements & weddings: 4-6 weeks

  • You’ll receive a private online gallery where you can download your high-resolution images.

  • Yes! You can order professional-quality prints, albums, custom books and wall art directly from your gallery.

  • Yes. Many public and private locations in Big Sur require a permit for elopements and photography sessions. I help all my clients secure the right permits and recommend beautiful, accessible spots that are photo-friendly and meaningful.

  • Absolutely. I love planning proposals! From helping choose a location with the best views (and lighting) to timing your moment and coordinating surprise logistics, I’ve got you covered.

  • Carmel is beautiful year-round, but the golden light and wildflower blooms of spring and fall offer especially dreamy backdrops. I’ll guide you through seasonal location options based on your vision and outfits.

  • My studio is located on Cannery Row in Monterey, just minutes from the coast. It’s designed with natural light, minimal styling, and cozy textures to create a space where you feel confident and comfortable.

  • I recommend flowing fabrics, soft colors, and layers that catch the wind — and I help all clients plan outfits to match the environment and your style. Wardrobe styling is included in every session.

  • Yes! I offer both maternity and bridal boudoir sessions in my Cannery Row studio or along the coast. These sessions are designed to celebrate you and this beautiful moment in your life with confidence and elegance.

  • For elopements or proposals in Big Sur, I recommend booking 1–3 months in advance — especially during spring and fall. Short notice is sometimes possible, so feel free to reach out anytime.

  • I work with creatives, couples, and small business owners to create clean, personality-filled branding portraits. Sessions can be in-studio, outdoors, or at your workspace — styled to reflect you and your brand.

  • Yes! While I’m based in Monterey, I frequently travel throughout the Central Coast and Northern California for photography sessions. Destination elopements and branding travel can also be arranged.

  • My work is editorial, cinematic, and emotional — focusing on connection, movement, and storytelling. Whether it's a cliffside elopement or a quiet portrait in natural light, I capture honest moments with intention.

See my latest work here.