Monterey, Carmel and Big Sur proposal photographer
a short guide to planning the perfect proposal
Where to propose
From Monterey to Big Sur, there are a plethora of gorgeous coastal locales on the Monterey Peninsula. If it’s views your after, you can’t go wrong with Asilomar, Carmel State or River Beach and any of the many parks along the Big Sur coast. Pebble Beach is also a fantastic area with lots of iconic coastline for your proposal. If privacy is most important, consider a venue such as your hotel grounds. With permission, this is a great option as we can create dream location with the help of the hotel staff.
when to propose
Sunset is the most popular time of the day to propose. There is nothing more romantic or memorable as the golden skies and the soft light it creates against the ocean. While I always recommend this time if an option, it also tends to be the most crowded with tourists. Therefore if you can plan your proposal for a Sunday-Thursday there will be less people around. Keep in mind that during the summer months we often has foggy days on the coast so you may not get that sunset, and that’s ok! The soft dramatic fog is a signature look for Monterey and is beautiful in it’s own right.
How to structure the proposal
There are two ways you can structure the marriage proposal. One is by arranging a photos shoot to celebrate you two, you anniversary, photos for the holidays, etc. This gives me close access to the proposal moment without giving it away. This option allows you also to make sure you can get your partner to a designated spot on time and dressed up, which can be one of the most challenging part of planning a surprise proposal. The second option is stealth mode. This is where I am playing tourist nearby, watching and waiting. With this option, we carefully coordinate the moment so you are positioned so I can see their face and know the sign that you’re about to pop the question.
The Process
• Contact me below to confirm the date are you interested in is available. I photograph proposals both in the morning and evenings, so consider what time of the day are you interested in as well.
• Once a date is decided, I will send over a contract and retainer invoice for you. A signed contract and $150 retainer is due to hold the date and time. The reminder of the balance is due three days before the proposal, and all signing and payments are done easily online.
• Once you are officially booked we will set up a time for a call to discuss the plan. Whether you know the exact location you’d like or not, I help structure the session and make sure we are on the same page with how it will work, all the way down to how to angle yourself so I can see reactions.
• On the day of the session, I arrive 15-20 minutes early to the location to stage and get ready for your arrival. Once you have proposed, I help guide you through some natural, fun poses full of moments to help celebrate your engagement.
• After the proposal, you will receive 10 sneak peek images within 24 hours, and your full gallery ready for download within 10 days.
proposal Package details
• Location Scouting
• Consultation and Planning Call
• 45 Minute of Photography
• Posing help after proposal
• Sneak Peek within 24 hours
• Beautiful Online Gallery delivered within ten days
• High-Resolution Downloads for printing
• Social Media Downloads for sharing
• $500 savings on wedding coverage when you book your wedding with me
$1250
Additional fees include destination proposals, custom picnic set-ups and additional shooting time
