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.

 

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.

What makes me different as a Big Sur proposal photographer?

✔️ Planning call to choose the perfect spot, lighting and timing.

✔️ Location scouting and maps to coordinate exact positioning. Custom timeline creation.

✔️ Discreet, candid-style photography to keep the surprise

✔️ Sneak peeks within 48 hours so you can share the news.

Big Sur | Garrapata State Park | Pfeiffer Beach | Bixby Bridge | Carmel Highlands

SERVING

Meet Your Big Sur Proposal Photographer.

Editorial-style portrait of Erin Venable, Big Sur-based photographer capturing cinematic proposals on the California coast

Hi, I’m Erin!

A Monterey-based photographer with a passion for storytelling, connection, and the wild, untamed beauty of the California coast.

Capturing proposals is my favorite part of this work. There’s nothing quite like the quiet breath before the question, or the way time slows down in that exact moment. Whether we’re dealing with crashing waves or golden light, I’m here to make the experience smooth, natural and unforgettable — for both of you.

Every Big Sur Proposal Package includes

fun laid back photography session

Fun, laid back experience

Line drawing of a stack of papers with a pen resting on top.

Permit & logistics guidance

photography session planning consultation

Planning Consultation

personalized photo session curation
Hidden proposal photographer

Exact map + meeting spot

Hidden photographer coverage

big sur elopement photography timeline

Custom Curated Timeline

A person performing a handstand on the snow-covered ground in front of the ocean, with mountain peaks in the background.

Travel within Big Sur Included

A man is proposing to a woman on a coastal cliff with rocky formations and green hills in the background.
big-sur-engagement-proposal-garrapata-state-park
big-sur-garrapata-engagement-vintage-car

 

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

✔️ Best months: 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:

  • 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 Packages and Pricing

Package One

The Cinematic Proposal Experience

  • 1-hour session

  • 4k Video of proposal

  • Your partner’s reaction, the big moment and dreamy portraits after the proposal

  • 30 professionally edited high-resolution images

  • Sneak peeks within 48 hours

  • Online gallery with digital downloads

  • Planning consultation + location guidance

$1,000.00

Most Popular Package

Package Two

Mix of candid moments & engagement portraits

  • 1-hour session

  • Proposal coverage + engagement portraits after

  • 30 professionally edited high-resolution images

  • Online gallery with digital downloads

  • Sneak peek within 48 hours

  • Planning consultation + location guidance

$850.00

Package Three

Perfect for a simple, beautifully captured proposal

  • 30-minute session

  • One stunning Carmel or Big Sur location

  • 15 professionally edited high-resolution images

  • Online gallery with digital downloads

  • Printing Rights

  • Add a Proposal Video $150.00

$750.00

Add a Big Sur Proposal video - $150

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.

  • Soberanes Point – Iconic cliffs and ocean spray

  • Garrapata Bluff Trail – Easy access and jaw-dropping views

  • Pfeiffer Beach – Purple sand and dreamy sunset glow

  • Ribera Beach (Carmel) – Romantic and intimate

  • Secret pullouts along Highway 1 – Shhh... I’ll show you the hidden gems

  • Redwoods - Intimate & serene

 

ordained officiant big sur photographer

A few more unique things about working with me.

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 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.

how to plan the perfect carmel california proposal free download

Download the FREE Carmel California Proposal Guide.

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.