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.

Capturing ‘Yes!’ in the Most Breathtaking Places – Big Sur Proposal Photography

Now it’s time to ask the question.

Imagine popping the question with waves crashing below, golden light pouring over the cliffs and your partner completely swept off their feet. As a Big Sur proposal photographer, I specialize in helping you plan a breathtaking, unforgettable proposal—and capturing every second of it.

Whether you envision a cliffside moment, a quiet beach walk or a scenic bluff at sunset, I’m here to help guide you to the perfect Big Sur proposal spot and preserve the magic forever.

YOU’VE FOUND THE ONE.

 

There are a lot of unknowns, logistics and uncertainties to navigate to bring your dream proposal to life

You deserve complete confidence that you’re in caring & capable hands.

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

Who’s behind these Big Sur Proposal Photography Packages?

monterey and carmel california headshot photographer

Meet Your Big Sur Proposal Photographer

Monterey-based photographer with a deep love for storytelling, real connection and the wild beauty of the California coast.

Capturing proposals is one of my favorite parts of this job. There’s something electric about those few seconds before the question is asked — the nerves, the emotion, the quiet little breath before everything changes. I’ve photographed Big Sur proposals in crashing coastal wind, golden light — and each one still gives me goosebumps.

My style is warm, editorial and intentional. I’ll guide you through every step of the planning process and make sure your partner is completely surprised (and completely in love with the moment we create).

I’d be honored to help you capture one of the most meaningful chapters of your story.Let’s create something unforgettable together!

Planning to propose in Big Sur? As a local photographer, I help you plan the perfect surprise proposal and capture every unforgettable moment. Explore locations, tips, and packages.

Every Carmel by the Sea Proposal Package includes.

  • FREE PLANNING CONSULTATION

    PLANNING CONSULTATION

  • Surprise proposal photography Carmel

    EXACT MAP MEETING SPOT

  • Carmel Beach proposal photos

    HIDDEN PHOTOGRAPHER COVERAGE

  • carmel by the sea proposal photography timeline

    CUSTOM TIMELINE CREATION

  • FUN LAID BACK PHOTOGRAPHY EXPERIENCE

    FUN LAID BACK EXPERIENCE

  • EXPERT PERMIT ADVICE

    EXPERT PERMIT ADVICE

  • UP TO DATE EQUIPMENT & INSURANCE

    UP TO DATE EQUIPMENT & INSURANCE

  • ARTISTIC HAND CRAFTED EDITS

    ARTISTIC HAND CRAFTED EDITS

  • CONVENIENT PRINT ORDERING

    CONVENIENT PRINT ORDERING

  • NO CARMEL BY THE SEA PHOTOGRAPHY TRAVEL FEES

    NO TRAVEL FEES

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

 

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 privacy

Big Sur engagement photographer

Why propose in Big Sur?

Big Sur is the dream proposal destination! With dramatic cliffs, crashing waves and iconic sunsets, Big Sur is one of the most romantic places in California to pop the question. Whether you're planning a secluded moment on a coastal bluff or an ocean view walk before dinner, Big Sur offers countless breathtaking proposal locations.

  • Golden hour lighting with Pacific Ocean views

  • Intimate trails and hidden beaches

  • Iconic proposal spots like Garrapata State Park and Soberanes Point

  • Perfect for adventurous or low-key couples

There’s nothing like the wild beauty of Big Sur.

  • “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

  • “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

  • “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

  • “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

  • “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. 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, 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

  • "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

  • "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

  • "Omg Erin!!! Over the past year my husband & I have done many shoots with her & love every experience! She’s an upbeat, talented, & creative person that will get down & dirty just to get the right angle. You can tell that she puts her whole heart in her work to make her clients happy. She’s also the type of photographer that will get you out of your shell when you don’t know what to do with your hands!! I would recommend her to anyone."

    Montanna + Cameron

  • 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

Big Sur Proposal Photography Packages

Package One

Romantic Proposal + Picnic Experience

  • 45 Minutes of Proposal Photography - Your partner’s reaction, the big moment and dreamy portraits after the proposal

  • Luxury Picnic Set Up - Styled blanket, plush pillows, florals and sparkling water or champagne toast

  • 25 professionally edited high-resolution images

  • Online gallery with digital downloads

$1,000.00

Package Two

For couples who want a mix of candid moments & engagement portraits

  • 60-minute session

  • Proposal coverage + engagement portraits after

  • 35 professionally edited high-resolution images

  • Online gallery with digital downloads

  • Printing Rights

$750.00

*Most Popular Package

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

$500.00

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.

Big Sur Proposal Photography – FAQs

  • Yes! I help with the full proposal experience. From scouting the perfect Big Sur location to creating a timeline based on lighting, crowd levels, and your cover story—I’m here to guide you every step of the way. You don’t need to have it all figured out; I’ve got you!

  • Absolutely. I often act like a hiker or tourist with a camera so your partner has no idea what’s coming. Once you pop the question, I’ll step in to capture all the joy, and we’ll take some beautiful portraits afterward.

  • Golden hour (around 1–2 hours before sunset) is the most flattering and romantic time for lighting. Weekdays are best to avoid crowds. I’ll help you choose the right time based on your location and vision.

  • Yes! I’ll recommend the most scenic and private spots along the Big Sur coast—including secret pull-offs, beaches, bluffs, and trails. Whether you want epic cliffs or a quiet beach moment, I’ll help you find the perfect place.

  • In most cases, no permit is required for a simple proposal with photography. However, I stay up to date on California Parks requirements and will guide you if any permits are needed based on your location.

  • Big Sur is beautiful in all weather, but if conditions are unsafe or visibility is too poor, we’ll discuss backup timing or a nearby alternative location. I’m flexible and always looking out for the best experience possible. I typically bring a clear umbrella to my Big Sur shoots, just in case it rains. It photographs really beautifully for couples sessions.

  • I’m based in Monterey and shoot frequently in Carmel, California and Big Sur. I also travel beyond that area as well.

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

  • Yes! Video is available as an optional add-on. I’ll discreetly record the moment using a second device so you can relive the emotions again and again.

  • My typical turnaround time is:

    3-4 weeks with sneak peeks sent up to 48 hours after session.

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

  • Whatever makes you feel confident and comfortable! Most couples dress up a little, especially if you’re heading to dinner afterward. I also send a style guide after booking with tips based on your location and the season.

  • You’ll receive sneak peeks within 48 hours—perfect for announcing the big news! Your full gallery will be delivered within 3–4 weeks in a private, beautifully curated online gallery.

  • ItemYes! While Big Sur is my specialty, I also photograph proposals throughout Monterey, Carmel-by-the-Sea, Pebble Beach and even further along the California coast.

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

Let’s Make Your Big Sur Proposal Unforgettable.

You only get one shot at this moment — let’s make it seamless, meaningful, and beautifully photographed. I’ll help plan the perfect proposal and capture every second with care and creativity.

how to plan the perfect carmel california proposal free download

Download the FREE Carmel California Proposal Guide.

See my latest work here.

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