Big Sur Proposal Photographer

Planning a surprise proposal in Big Sur? Let’s make it unforgettable with stunning views, expert guidance, and breathtaking photos that tell your love story.

Capture the “Yes!” in California’s Most Breathtaking Proposal Destination

Let’s Plan Your Big Sur Proposal

Imagine standing on a quiet bluff as waves crash below and golden light fills the sky. Your partner turns, surprised. The ring. The tears. The “yes.”

As your local Big Sur proposal photographer, I do more than take photos—I help create the moment. I guide you to the best location, help with timing and light, and stay completely hidden until it’s time to capture the magic.

No guesswork. No stress. Just emotion-filled imagery you’ll treasure forever.

YOU’VE FOUND THE ONE.

Inquire For Availability

What makes me different as a Big Sur proposal photographer?

Planning a proposal in Big Sur can feel overwhelming — with tides, crowds, trails, light, and logistics to consider. That’s where I come in. I offer more than just photos — I give you peace of mind.

big sur proposal locations

Big Sur Proposal Locations

You’ll receive a thoughtfully curated list of stunning proposal spots chosen for light, scenery, privacy, and overall experience — locations most people would never find without a local expert.

big sur proposal photographer

I handle all timing considerations — sunset, lighting, tides, and conditions — so your proposal and photos feel warm, cinematic, and effortless.

Timing, Light & Tide Guidance

Big Sur surprise Proposal Plan

I create a clear, step-by-step plan that covers parking, walking paths, where to stand, where to kneel, which direction to face, and how to keep everything feeling natural and unsuspecting.

A Simple, Stress-Free Proposal Plan

big sur proposal planning call

A Planning Call to Finalize Details

We’ll walk through the full plan together, confirm logistics, and make sure you feel calm, confident, and fully prepared.

big sur proposal timeline

A Customized Experience-Focused Timeline

An easy-to-follow timeline that maps out how the proposal and photos unfold naturally, without anything feeling rushed or staged.

big sur proposal setup

Personalized Proposal Setups

From subtle romantic touches to more customized concepts, I can help bring your vision to life in a way that feels elevated but never overdone.

how to propose in big sur

Expert Execution Guidance

I guide you through exactly how to approach the moment — from keeping the ring hidden to walking into the spot naturally — so everything flows seamlessly.

propose in big sur

A Relaxed, Guided Photography Experience

I balance gentle direction with candid prompts so your photos feel natural, emotional, and never stiff or awkward.

planning a big sur proposal from out of town

Local Support for Out-of-Town Planners

Most of my clients aren’t local. I provide the clarity, insight, and local expertise needed to plan a beautiful proposal from anywhere — without stress.

Meet Your Big Sur Proposal Photographer & Planner.

I’m Erin, and my job is to help you pull off the perfect “yes” in Big Sur.

Carmel Proposal Photographer sitting in Carmel California Photography Studio

Big Sur proposals are breathtaking — and logistically tricky. Locations change, tides matter, permits are required, and timing is everything. That’s why I do more than show up with a camera.

I help you:

  • Choose the most scenic and realistic Big Sur proposal location

  • Navigate permits, tides, and timing

  • Create a clear, stress-free plan so you feel confident walking into the moment

As a local photographer based in Carmel-by-the-Sea, I know the hidden pull-offs, quiet redwood spots, cliffside overlooks, and pockets of golden light that make Big Sur feel unforgettable — without feeling crowded or chaotic. I’ll share exact pins, parking notes, and discreet communication so everything unfolds naturally.

Whether you’re planning from across the country or just down the coast, I’ll be your partner in creating a Big Sur proposal that feels effortless, elevated, and genuinely meaningful.

  • Perfect Big Sur Proposal

    “We had never been to Big Sur before, so planning a proposal there felt intimidating. Erin made it incredibly easy. She helped us choose the most private location and even gave tips for timing. The photos are jaw-dropping — we’ll treasure them forever!” Michael & Grace

  • Pulled off a dream proposal

    “I was so nervous about pulling off the surprise, but Erin made everything incredibly easy. She helped me pick the perfect location, mapped it all out, and even coached me on where to stand for the best light. My fiancée had no idea it was coming, and the photos brought us both to tears. I couldn’t have done it without her!” Jason M., proposed at Soberanes Point

  • Garrapata Proposal

    “Erin captured one of the most important moments of our lives so beautifully. The way she stayed hidden and still managed to get every single reaction was unreal. We got sneak peeks within a day, and when the full gallery arrived, I was speechless. Every photo feels like a movie still.” Nina R., surprised in Garrapata Bluff Trail

  • Proposed in Big Sur

    “From the first message, I felt like I was in great hands. Erin really knows Big Sur and gave the best recommendations to make it all feel personal and meaningful. The whole experience was seamless and full of heart—and now we have the most gorgeous photos to relive that day forever.” Chris T., proposed at Garrapata Beach

  • Popped the question

    “I had no idea how to pull this off — Erin helped me choose the perfect spot and stayed completely hidden until the moment I got down on one knee. She made it all feel so easy and fun. The photos were ready within two days and we were blown away.” Mike

  • Captured the moment

    “She stayed hidden until the perfect moment and captured it all — the surprise, the tears, the kiss. We’ll be looking at these photos for the rest of our lives.” Lili + Ryan

  • We’ll treasure these images forever.

    “We’ll treasure these images forever. Erin captured every tear, smile, and quiet in-between moment. She’s a magician with the camera and an absolute pro behind the scenes.” Jeena + James

  • I had no idea how to plan a proposal in Carmel,

    “I had no idea how to plan a proposal in Carmel, but Erin helped me with everything — the timing, the location, even what to say when the nerves kicked in. And the photos? Beyond stunning.” Sydney + Levi

  • I was so nervous about pulling off the surprise proposal

    “I was so nervous about pulling off the surprise proposal, but Erin was a total pro. She stayed completely hidden, timed everything perfectly, and captured every reaction without being seen. The moment felt private, but somehow we have magazine-quality photos of it!” Dev & Priya

  • We felt so seen and supported

    “We felt so seen and supported by Erin throughout the entire process. As a queer couple, it meant everything to have a photographer who made us feel completely comfortable. The Big Sur coast, the light, the moment — it was all magic.” Alex & Jordan, sunset proposal near Soberanes Point

Big Sur Proposal Photography Packages

Every proposal package is designed to take the stress out of planning so that you can be fully present in the moment you ask one of the most meaningful questions of your life.

Luxury Carmel Beach picnic setup with a low wooden table under a pink parasol, decorated with flowers, tableware, and candles, on sand with kidney-shaped cushions, overlooking the ocean during sunset.

The Custom Proposal Experience

A fully designed proposal setup paired with intentional, discreet coverage of the moment itself.

This experience is for those who want the proposal to feel thoughtful, elevated and visually unforgettable — not something pulled together last-minute or copied from a template.

Each proposal is custom-designed from the ground up based on your vision, location and setting, whether that’s a Carmel beach, private residence, Airbnb or rented venue.

Includes:

Custom Proposal Design & Setup

  • Thoughtfully curated setups such as:

    • Luxury picnic-style designs

    • Long-stem florals in the sand

    • Floral arches or statement installations

  • Design, sourcing, setup, and breakdown included

Proposal Moment Coverage

  • Starting at 30 minutes of discreet photography coverage

  • Focused on the proposal moment and portraits after

Curated Edited Gallery

  • Professionally edited, high-resolution images

  • 48-hour sneak peeks

LET'S DESIGN YOUR PROPOSAL
Two people stand on a rugged coastal cliff with dried, brown vegetation, overlooking the ocean with rocks and waves at Garrapata State Park Mountains rise in the background under a partly cloudy sky. man is on one knee proposing.

The Full Story

Proposal day + next-day portraits


For couples who want their proposal captured and a relaxed engagement session along the stunning Big Sur coastline — without rushing one of the most meaningful moments of their lives.

This proposal experience includes:

  • Proposal coverage (20 minutes)

  • 1.5 hour couples session the day after

  • Recommendations for my favorite locations

  • Full proposal planning & concierge support

  • Proposal video clip

  • 48-hour sneak peeks

$2,200

→ Inquire below to receive my full proposal pricing guide and begin planning your proposal.

pfeiffer beach surprise proposal in front of the keyhole arch with water coming through

The Classic Proposal

A cinematic proposal experience designed to make everything feel easy.

This experience strikes the perfect balance of guidance, coverage, and beautiful imagery — capturing the proposal itself, your partner’s reaction, and relaxed portraits right after at two nearby locations, all with a clear plan in place so nothing feels rushed or overwhelming.

This surprise proposal experience includes:

  • 1 hour proposal + portraits coverage

  • One to two nearby locations selected for light and flow

  • Recommendations for my favorite locations

  • Full proposal planning & concierge support

  • Proposal video clip

  • 48-hour sneak peeks

$1,200

A couple on a sandy Garrapata beach with mountains in the background; one person is proposing to the other, who is standing.

Short & Sweet Surprise Proposal

A simple, meaningful proposal — beautifully captured.

This experience is perfect for couples who want a genuine, intimate proposal without overthinking every detail. It focuses on the moment itself, a few romantic portraits after, and just enough guidance to make everything flow smoothly.

This surprise proposal experience includes:

  • 30 minute proposal + portraits coverage

  • One thoughtfully chosen location

  • Recommendations for my favorite locations

  • Streamlined planning support (timing, light, and exact meeting point)

  • 48-hour sneak peeks

$850

A man proposing to a woman on a Carmel by the Sea beach with sand, rocks, and ocean waves, under cloudy skies.

Just the Moment — Carmel Beach Exclusive

A beautifully captured proposal moment — simple, intentional, and effortless.

This experience includes:

  • 15 minute proposal coverage capturing the “yes” and immediate reaction

  • Carmel Beach only

  • A small, curated gallery of highlights

  • A simple plan for where to meet, where to walk, and where to propose

  • 48-hour sneak peeks

$650

Big Sur Proposal Package Add - Ons

A person's hand holding a bouquet of pink, white, and cream flowers wrapped in brown paper with a pink ribbon, set against a plain white background.

Bouquet

luxury beach picnic set up on Carmel Beach

Custom Beach Setups

Proposal Video Clip


A short cinematic clip capturing the proposal moment — perfect for sharing and reliving the “yes.”

Let’s Make Your Big Sur Proposal Unforgettable.

You only get one chance to ask the biggest question of your life, let’s make sure it’s magical, seamless and beautifully captured.

 

When’s the Best Time to Propose in Big Sur?

✔️ Best months: Big Sur is magical all year long. March–November

✔️ Best time of day: Golden hour (1–2 hours before sunset)

✔️ Avoid weekends for less crowds & privacy

Big Sur is one of the most romantic places in California to propose. With dramatic cliffs, crashing waves, golden sunsets, and wild, untamed beauty—it’s a dream proposal destination for couples who crave something more meaningful than a typical moment.

Whether you’re planning a private cliffside proposal, a golden-hour beach walk, or a redwood forest surprise, Big Sur offers unmatched beauty, intimacy, and magic.

Why propose in Big Sur?

big-sur-proposal-garrapata-beach

  • Golden hour lighting with Pacific Ocean views

  • Iconic proposal spots like Garrapata State Park and Soberanes Point

  • Perfect for both adventurous couples and quiet romantics

  • Backdrops that look straight out of a movie

Here’s why couples choose Big Sur for their proposal:

Let’s Plan Your Big Sur Proposal

Big Sur Proposal FAQs

  • Some proposal locations in Big Sur—like Garrapata State Park or Pfeiffer Beach—require permits depending on the time of year and number of guests. As your Big Sur proposal photographer, I’ll help determine if a permit is needed and walk you through the application process so you can focus on the moment, not the logistics.

  • Golden hour—about 1 to 2 hours before sunset—is ideal for capturing soft, romantic light. I’ll help you time the proposal perfectly for your chosen location and season to make the most of the natural light and avoid harsh shadows or crowds.

  • Absolutely! I’ll provide a curated list of stunning Big Sur proposal spots—from dramatic cliffside overlooks to quiet redwood trails and lesser-known pullouts along Highway 1. You’ll receive detailed maps and recommendations tailored to your vision.

  • Yes! I photograph your proposal discreetly, staying out of sight until the moment happens. After the “yes,” I’ll join you both for relaxed, guided portraits to capture the post-proposal joy and connection.

  • Yes! You can add a professionally filmed 4K video to any proposal package. The video captures the full emotion of the moment and is perfect for sharing with family or watching together years from now.

  • You’ll receive sneak peek images within 48 hours so you can share the news right away. Your full gallery will be delivered within 2–3 weeks via a private, high-resolution online gallery with download and print rights.

  • Yes! I also photograph surprise proposals in Carmel-by-the-Sea, Monterey, and surrounding Central Coast locations. If you’re not sure which coastal town fits your vision, I’ll help you compare options.

  • Of course! Whether you want to bring champagne, flowers, a handwritten letter, or even your dog, I’ll help you plan it all into your timeline so it feels seamless and special.

  • I always have backup location ideas and can help shift your session time if needed. Coastal weather can be unpredictable, but fog or moody skies often create incredibly romantic images. I’ve shot proposals in everything from golden sun to light rain—and we’ll make magic in any light.

  • The sooner the better—especially if you’re hoping for a weekend or golden hour session. I recommend booking at least 2–4 weeks in advance to ensure location availability, permits (if needed), and ideal timing.

The Most Scenic & Private Big Sur Proposal Spots

From quiet coastal trails to epic cliffside views, Big Sur has countless magical proposal locations. I’ll guide you to the best ones—no crowds, no stress.

Big Sur | Garrapata State Park | Pfeiffer Beach | Bixby Bridge | Carmel Highlands | Redwoods - Pfeiffer state Park | Ventana |

 

Capturing Proposals in Big Sur, California.