Carmel California Proposal Photographer

Thoughtfully planned. Naturally captured. Emotionally unforgettable.

Let’s Plan Your Perfect Carmel Proposal

Planning a surprise proposal in Carmel or Big Sur can feel overwhelming — especially if you’re not local. That’s where I come in. I’m not just here to take beautiful photos (although you'll get plenty of those!) I’m here to help you plan the perfect moment from start to “yes.”


From scouting the most breathtaking, tucked-away spots to mapping out exactly where to walk, where to stand, and what time the light is just right, I’ve got you covered. My goal is to make this experience effortless, unforgettable, and fully centered on your love story.

 

Most of my couples are visiting from out of town — sometimes even across the country or overseas. I’ve designed my proposal experience to make everything as easy and stress-free as possible, even if you’ve never been here before.

Here’s how I help:

Planning From Out of Town? You’re in the Right Place.

✔️ Personalized location suggestions based on your vibe and time of year

✔️ Google Maps pins + walking directions to the proposal spot

✔️ Tips on timing for the best light (trust me, it’s worth it!)

You just focus on asking the question — I’ll make sure everything else is in place.

✔️ Add-ons like a highlight video reel or champagne toast

✔️ Optional phone call to walk through the moment and logistics

Meet Your Carmel Proposal Photographer

Erin Venable, a Monterey-based proposal photographer, smiling in her Carmel-by-the-Sea photography studio

I’m Erin, an experienced Carmel proposal photographer who specializes in documenting proposals that feel personal, joyful, and deeply romantic.

Capturing proposals is one of my absolute 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 proposals in crashing coastal winds, golden light, and hidden gardens — 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 together).

Whether you’re planning a proposal in Carmel-by-the-Sea, on a Big Sur cliffside, or along the Monterey coast, I’d be honored to help you capture one of the most meaningful chapters of your story. Let’s create something unforgettable.

  • Serving Carmel, Big Sur, Monterey & beyond

Why Choose Me to capture your Carmel proposal?

More than just a photographer — I’m your guide, planner, and biggest fan.

✔️ Local expertise you can trust: I’ve hiked the cliffs, walked the beaches, and know which locations are magical and proposal-friendly. No guessing, no stressing — I’ll guide you to the perfect spot.


✔️ Every detail, handled: From Google Maps pins to a step-by-step plan for the big moment, you’ll know exactly where to go and what to expect.


✔️ Unposed, emotive photography: I’ll gently guide you when needed, but most of all, I capture the real, raw emotions — the joy, the tears, the moment you say “yes.”


✔️ Quick sneak peeks: You'll receive a preview of your photos within 24 hours (or even the same day, depending on your package), so you can share the news in style.


✔️ Warm, responsive communication: You won’t be left hanging. I’m here for your questions, ideas, and nerves — every step of the way.

  • I had no idea it was coming

    “And Erin captured every second so perfectly! The Carmel Beach sunset, the emotion, the surprise—it’s all there in the photos. She stayed hidden until the moment he dropped to one knee and made everything feel effortless and magical.” Madison & Ryan

  • A Safe, Celebrated Proposal Experience in Carmel

    “As a queer couple, we were looking for a Carmel proposal photographer who made us feel safe and celebrated. Erin was kind, thoughtful, and totally affirming. Our garden proposal was quiet, emotional, and completely us—and she captured it all beautifully.” Sam & Dylan

  • Photos We’ll Treasure 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

  • She Helped Me Plan the Perfect Carmel Proposal

    “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

  • Last-Minute Carmel Proposal? Erin Made It Happen

    “I reached out to Erin last-minute for a Carmel-by-the-Sea proposal, and she made it happen like a pro. She helped me pick a private spot by the cliffs, created a custom timeline, and the photos brought us to tears. We are so grateful!” Luis & Bri

  • Warm, Professional, and So Incredibly Talented

    “The proposal was everything I dreamed of, and Erin made sure we had beautiful portraits afterward too. She’s warm, professional, and so talented. Our Carmel proposal gallery looks like a movie—we can’t stop staring at it.” Caroline & Derek

  • A Proposal on the Carmel Cliffs We’ll Never Forget

    "Erin helped me pull off the perfect cliffside proposal. She was completely hidden and somehow still got every angle. My partner was shocked in the best way. The portraits after were like something out of a movie." — Cameron + Zoe

Carmel Proposal Photography Packages

The Full-Service Proposal Experience

1 hour session | Video | 30 edited images | Plus custom experience

Best for: Clients who want everything done for them

Includes:

  • 1-hour session

  • Photo + 4K video

  • Florals, picnic, champagne (outsourced/vendor costs included)

  • Complete proposal planning (timeline, maps, weather plan)

  • Gallery + sneak peeks + proposal film

$2,000+

The Cinematic Proposal

1 hour session | Video | 30 edited images

Best for: Content-focused clients

Includes:

  • 1-hour session

  • 4K video + photography

  • 30 images + sneak peeks

  • Proposal moment + portraits

  • Planning support, location guide, timeline

  • Includes video editing

$1,200.00

The Classic Proposal

1 hour session | 1 location | 30 edited images


Best for: Proposals + portraits

Includes:

  • 1-hour session

  • Proposal coverage + romantic portraits

  • 30 images + sneak peeks

  • Planning consult + location guide

  • Optional: add-on video, florals, picnic

$950.00

30 minute session | 1 location | 15 edited images


Best for: Minimalist, budget-conscious clients

Includes:

  • 30-min session

  • One curated location

  • 15 images

  • Planning consult + location guidance

  • Optional add-ons: video, bouquet, champagne

  • Travel fee may apply for Big Sur

The Simple Yes

$700.00

Add-Ons

  • Add video (simple, 1-camera, edited): $300

  • Bouquet: Starting at $125

  • Mini picnic setup: $350–$500

  • Same-day sneak peeks: $100

  • Full engagement session another day: $500–$700

 

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 Carmel California Proposal Unforgettable.

You only get one shot at this moment — let’s make it seamless, meaningful, and beautifully documented. Reach out to get started, and don’t forget to download your FREE Carmel Proposal Planning Guide for inspiration, location ideas, and proposal tips!

man knelling on ground after planning the perfect-carmel-by-the-sea-proposal
Surprise proposal at sunset on a Carmel California cliff, captured by photographer Erin Venable
Garrapata State Park Engagement Session
how to plan the perfect carmel california proposal free download

Download the FREE Carmel California Proposal Guide.

FAQs: Carmel Proposal Photography

  • Yes! I help with planning, location scouting, timing, permits (if needed), and the overall flow to keep the surprise authentic and smooth.

  • Absolutely! As long as the location is pup friendly. Whether it’s your pup or a hidden group of family and friends, I’ll help coordinate positioning and timing.

  • Golden hour—about 60 minutes before sunset—is ideal for soft, romantic light. I’ll help you plan for the perfect timing based on the season and location.

  • Yes — I serve the entire Central Coast! Big Sur cliffs, Monterey gardens, or Carmel beaches — I’ll help you find the perfect spot. Big Sur Proposals

  • Click “Let’s Plan Your Carmel Proposal” to fill out my booking form. I’ll be in touch within 24–48 hours to start the planning process.

  • Yes! I offer a cinematic 4K video add-on that captures your proposal as it unfolds—perfect for reliving the moment and sharing with family and friends.

  • You’ll receive a few sneak peek photos within 48 hours so you can share the news, and your full gallery within 2–3 weeks.