Big Sur Engagement Photography Packages

Natural, editorial-style engagement sessions in one of the most breathtaking locations on the California coast.

Let’s Plan Your Big Sur Engagement

Authentic. Artistic. Completely You.

Every Big Sur engagement photography session I offer is custom-designed for couples who crave genuine connection, breathtaking backdrops, and timeless photos that feel like you.

Romantic engagement kiss at Garrapata Beach with waves crashing in the background

Why Choose Big Sur for Your Engagement Photos?

It’s the perfect setting for couples looking for more than posed portraits. You're here to create real memories and have them beautifully documented.

Whether you're:

  • Recently engaged

  • Planning a surprise proposal

  • Celebrating your love story...

...Big Sur’s dramatic coastline and serene forests provide the ideal backdrop for heartfelt engagement photography.

From golden-hour cliffs to foggy redwood trails, Big Sur is unmatched in natural beauty.

What Sets Me Apart as a Big Sur Engagement Photographer?

When you’re planning an engagement session in a location as vast and untamed as Big Sur, you need more than just a photographer—you need a guide. Here's how I make it seamless and unforgettable:

15+ years wardrobe styling experience.

7+ years capturing and planning custom engagement sessions

100’s of happy clients with 5 start ratings.

100+ one-of-a-kind couples, elopements & portrait sessions planned & captured.

Big Sur couples photography packages
Big Sur engagement photography
Proposal photographer Big Sur

Meet Your Big Sur Engagement Photographer.

I’m Erin

I specialize in Big Sur engagement photography that’s editorial, romantic, and full of life. With a calm presence and expert guidance, I’ll help you feel relaxed and in the moment while I take care of the storytelling.

From permit help and timeline creation to curated location scouting and natural posing, I ensure you’ll enjoy every step of the experience.

Let’s explore Big Sur’s cliffs, golden beaches, and redwood forests—and make magic together.

big sur engagement photography packages

LGBTQIA+ affirming Big Sur engagement photographer

Big Sur Engagement Photography Packages Include:

fun laid back photography session

Fun, laid back experience

photography location guidance

Location Guidance

photography session planning consultation

Planning Consultation

personalized photo session curation
photography session wardrobe consultation

Personalized Session Curation

Wardrobe Guidance

 

All Big Sur engagement sessions include.

Location guidance with curated Big Sur spot recommendations

Unlimited outfit changes within your session time

High-resolution, professionally edited images. Online gallery with print rights

Gentle posing direction for natural, connected imagery

Big Sur Engagement Packages & Pricing

Package One

2 hours | 2–3 nearby micro-locations | 60+ edited images


For the wild-hearted couple who wants to turn their session into an experience.

Includes:

  • A mix of Big Sur locations (forest trail + cliffs + hidden beach, for example)

  • Outfit changes + extended golden hour light

  • More time for creativity, movement and variety

  • All logistics + permits handled

  • Full-resolution online gallery with print rights

$1,000.00

Package Two

90-minute session | 2 locations | 50+ edited images


Ideal for couples who want a balance of movement, scenery and storytelling.

Includes:

  • Two handpicked Big Sur locations (e.g., redwoods + cliffs or beach + forest)

  • Unlimited outfit changes within time

  • Natural posing & candid direction

  • High-resolution online gallery with print rights

  • Planning call + styling & location guidance

  • Permit help + travel included

$850.00

*Most Popular Package

60 minute session | 1 location | 30+ edited images

For couples who want something beautiful, simple and heartfelt.

Includes:

  • One epic Big Sur location of your choice (cliffs, forest, or beach)

  • Relaxed, natural posing

  • Online gallery + print rights

  • Planning guide + wardrobe tips

  • Permit help + travel included

Package Three

$750.00

Big sur engagement session packing and tips free download guide, featuring images on a tablet and smartphone. The ad is by Erin Venable Photography, with bold text inviting a download.

Get My Free Big Sur Engagement Planning Guide.

Want help choosing locations, timing, outfits, and more? Download my free guide to plan your dream Big Sur engagement session with ease.

Big Sur engagement planning guide
how to plan the perfect engagement session in big sur
Garrapata State Park Engagement Session

Testimonials

•

Testimonials •

Testimonials

•

Testimonials •

  • Our Big Sur Engagement Photos Were Pure Magic

    “We booked our Big Sur engagement shoot with Erin and the photos blew us away. She gave just the right amount of direction and let us be ourselves — and captured everything so beautifully.” Kelly + Jason

  • Our Big Sur Proposal Felt Effortless—Thanks to Erin

    “I proposed to my partner on the cliffs of Garrapata and Erin made the moment completely stress-free. The photos captured every emotion — we’ll cherish them forever.” Hailey + Jasmin

  • Engagement Photos We’ll Treasure Forever

    "Erin not only captured absolutely gorgeous photos for our engagement session and wedding, but she also stole our hearts during the process! What a beautiful soul inside and out! We couldn’t have picked a better wedding photographer - If you are searching for the best wedding photographer who is kind, talented and easy to work with this is your girl! We love you Erin!" Whitney + Douglas

  • She Captured Us Perfectly—Beyond Our Expectations

    "Erin is a VERY talented photographer from the moment we met I felt like I have known her for years . She is a true artist very fun and passionate . She makes your whole experience so special with your LOVED ONE . If you want a photographer that is glowing with love and joy she's your girl. She will make you very comfortable in front of the camera and she WILL CREATE artwork for you to treasure FOREVER . Her work and personality is beyond 5 stars!!" Tristin + Billy

  • Erin is an amazing human and her work falls nothing short of incredible! She has this beautiful energy about her and you can’t help but smile when she’s around. She moves around and isn’t afraid of the uncomfortable to capture moments that take your breath away. Her editing style has a golden, moody tone/feel and it’s just the best! Matthew and I met Erin when she came out to Southern California and she did our engagement shoot. I wish she was based out this way to capture more of our journey! If you ever have the opportunity to work with her, we highly recommend it!

    Lindsay + Mathew

  • I loved working with Erin.

    "From engagements to the wedding she made everything so easy and so fun!! Pictures turned out so unique and beautiful. Amazingly different from every other photographer I’ve worked with before. I love everything about her vibe!!!! 10/10 recommend" Brittney + Mark

  • The best wedding photographer!

    "Erin is a MIRACLE WORKER! Her edits are unlike any photographer you’ve ever seen. She knows exactly what she’s doing. I had a wedding with a party of 32 (11 bridesmaids/ 11 groomsman/ 5 house party/ 5 ushers) & I couldn’t believe how amazing each picture she took was. She just blew my mind!! And she got all my pictures back within TWO weeks of my wedding date! 3 of my friends who got married didn’t get theirs back until 3 months after. Pick her as your photographer! You will not regret it!"MK + Nick

  • Erin is absolutely the best wedding photographer! She has the ability to make you feel 100% comfortable while capturing some of life’s most amazing moments. Her willingness to go above and beyond is priceless! From pre-wedding thoughtful gifts, popping champagne, laying on the ground to capture the perfect photo, laughs, dancing and more! Erin made our wedding more special in every way possible!"

    Crystal + Josh

  • Erin was absolutely wonderful to work with!

    "She took pics of me & my bf for our first photo shoot together & made it super easy & fun! If you’re looking for a photographer with a eye for the perfect picture & a passion to help your memories last a lifetime, give her a call! Extremely happy with our photos and can’t wait to shoot again soon!" Candice + Justin

  • Our Big Sur Engagement Session Was Breathtaking

    “From the moment we reached out, Erin made the entire experience easy and unforgettable. She helped us choose the most stunning cliffside location in Big Sur and gave us the confidence to just be ourselves. The photos are romantic, natural, and totally us. We’ll cherish them forever.”
    — Lena + Tyler

  • She Made Our Proposal at Garrapata Feel Effortless

    “I had no idea how to pull off a surprise proposal in Big Sur, but Erin guided me through every detail. The moment at Garrapata was beyond perfect—and the photos? Pure magic. She captured every tear, smile, and laugh. We’re so thankful we chose her.”
    — Zach + Mel

  • The Most Meaningful Photos We've Ever Had

    “We’re not naturally camera people, but Erin made us feel completely comfortable during our Big Sur engagement session. Her direction was subtle and thoughtful, and the photos are just stunning. The light, the scenery, the emotion—it’s all there.”
    — Jordan + Alex

  • A Dream Session in the Redwoods and Along the Coast

    “Erin took us to places we never would’ve found on our own. The redwoods felt magical, and the beach at sunset was straight out of a movie. Her guidance, energy, and creativity turned our engagement session into something so much more.”
    — Sasha + Brian

 

ordained officiant big sur photographer

Ready to Plan Your Engagement Session in Big Sur?

ULC Monastery Ordained officiant

lgbtqi+ big sur photographer

All are welcome here.

leave no trace big sur photographer

Proudly practicing leave no trace.

woman owned monterey photographer

Woman owned.

Let’s Plan Your Big Sur Engagement Session

Fill out the contact form below to start planning your dream engagement session in Big Sur. Let’s make images that reflect who you are—wild, in love, and truly present.

FAQs About Big Sur Engagement Photography

  • Big Sur is beautiful year-round, but the best months for golden light and minimal fog are typically September through November. Spring also offers lush greenery and wildflowers. I’ll help you choose the best timing based on your vision.

  • I always recommend outfits that move well and complement Big Sur’s earthy tones. Neutrals, soft pastels, and textures like linen or flowy fabrics photograph beautifully against coastal backdrops.

  • I offer three engagement packages ranging from 1 to 2 hours. You can choose a quick, heartfelt session at one scenic spot or go all-in with a longer experience that includes multiple Big Sur locations like the cliffs, redwoods, and hidden beaches.

  • Absolutely! From Garrapata State Park to tucked-away redwood trails, I provide curated location suggestions based on your style, accessibility needs, and vision. My engagement packages include full location guidance and permit assistance where needed.

  • Absolutely! From Garrapata State Park to tucked-away redwood trails, I provide curated location suggestions based on your style, accessibility needs, and vision. My engagement packages include full location guidance and permit assistance where needed.

  • Yes! Some Big Sur locations are dog-friendly. If you're planning to bring a furry friend, I’ll help you choose a spot that allows pets and provide tips for making it a smooth experience.

  • Absolutely. All love is welcome here. I proudly serve LGBTQIA+ couples and ensure a safe, affirming, and joyful experience for every session.

  • Yes! Many of my engagement sessions actually begin with a surprise proposal. I’ll help you coordinate every detail—timing, positioning, hiding spots, and even props if needed. Learn more about Big Sur proposal photography here.

  • Yes! You’ll receive a fully edited online gallery with high-resolution images and full print rights. You can also order professional prints, albums and wall art directly from your gallery for convenience.

  • I recommend booking 4–8 weeks in advance, especially for weekends or golden hour sessions. Popular spots fill up quickly, and planning ahead ensures we have time to personalize your experience. But have planned stunning sessions with as little as a couple of days.

  • Absolutely. Many of my couples travel from out of town for their Big Sur engagement session. I offer guidance on timing, lodging, nearby dining, and even suggested day-of itineraries so you can turn your session into a full romantic getaway.

See my latest work here.

Part ✌️ of Savannah’s maternity session — after our dreamy studio shoot, we headed outdoors to soak in that golden light and capture some magic in nature. Her vision was so aligned with mine: golden, filmy, effortlessly vintage vibes ✨ I&
Want to make your proposal unforgettable? ✨ If you’re dreaming of something more than just “Will you marry me?”—this one’s for you. I’ve put together 10 creative and romantic ideas to help you make your surprise p
She said yes 💍✨ Tuesdays proposal was a dream✨ Overlooking the rugged coastline of Carmel, this surprise proposal couldn’t have been more picture-perfect. Ocean views, golden light, and a love story unfolding right on the cliffs—truly a
💍 Planning a surprise proposal? Feeling overwhelmed, nervous or just want it to be perfect? Swipe through for my top tips to plan a proposal your partner will never forget, from choosing the right location to pulling off the surprise. Planning to
Still dreaming about this magical evening in Big Sur with these two and their sweet pup, Koko. 🐾 We started our session down on the beach, where the golden light danced on the waves and Koko ran through the sand like it was her job. Then we made ou