Two people stand on rocky cliff overlooking dramatic California coastline with crashing waves at sunset.
Let’s get to know each other


Big Sur Proposal Photographer

Ready to plan the perfect Big Sur proposal? I’m here to help every step of the way—from scouting breathtaking locations to crafting the ideal weekend itinerary. As your local Big Sur expert, I’ll make the entire planning process seamless, epic, and unforgettable


Big Sur Proposal Photographer

GET TO KNOW ME

I am so glad you're here!

Having over 14 years of experience photographing weddings, proposals, and elopements in Big Sur, I am so excited you are here and I can't wait to photograph your proposal!

Being a Big Sur local, I can guide you to the very best locations with an understanding of how light impacts your imagery.

A couple embraces by a vintage black car parked beneath cypress trees along a coastal roadway at sunset.

Carmel Beach Proposal

Two people sitting together on a sandy beach with rocky coastal cliffs and ocean waves in the background.

Big Sur Proposal

Big Sur Proposal Photographer


"We couldn't have asked for a more perfect moment, and Daniel made sure it was captured flawlessly!" ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ - Greg on Google

Over the years, I’ve had the incredible privilege of photographing over 200 couples from all around the world in Big Sur. From local love stories to international travelers making Big Sur their dream destination, each couple brings their own unique energy, culture, and connection—and I get to help tell that story through timeless imagery. It’s one of the most rewarding parts of my work: meeting people from all walks of life and capturing that raw, real emotion that makes their relationship theirs. Just like Big Sur, every session is unique, no two sessions are ever the same, and that’s what keeps it exciting—every couple brings something new to the experience.

A tender moment shared between a couple on a cliff overlooking a rocky coastline with evergreen trees at sunset.
A romantic couple embraces on a cliff overlooking the dramatic Big Sur coastline at sunset in California.

Big Sur Webcams

Here are my two favorite webcams that show live views of Big Sur. The Post Ranch Inn is a world-class hotel located about an hour south of Carmel and offers incredible views—it's a perfect spot to check out if you're thinking of proposing in Big Sur. Pebble Beach, home to the world-famous golf course, is another great webcam to watch, especially if you're considering a proposal in Carmel and want to get a sense of the weather. Lastly, Tickle Pink Inn is a beautiful hotel perched closer to Carmel, offering stunning views of the Big Sur coast—an ideal way to preview the scenery.

Pebble Beach

Carmel

Big Sur & Carmel-by-the-Sea Proposal Photographer

Testimonials

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LARS & JOSEPHINE

A couple walks barefoot on a sandy beach, wearing casual winter clothing and holding hands on an overcast day.

If you’re planning a proposal, engagement shoot, or any special occasion, look no further than Daniel James Photography. His talent, professionalism, and passion for storytelling make him the best choice. We will cherish these photos forever—thank you, Daniel!

Make your Big Sur Proposal an adventure

Couple embraces in romantic moment at scenic coastal cliff overlooking ocean at sunset.

Big Sur is Wild


Rugged Luxury


Big Sur is one of the last truly wild places along the California coast—a rugged stretch of cliffs, crashing waves, and redwood forests where nature feels raw and untamed. Its dramatic landscapes create the perfect backdrop for a proposal that feels both adventurous and intimate. Whether you're standing on a windswept bluff with the Pacific Ocean roaring below or tucked into a quiet redwood grove, Big Sur offers that rare feeling of being completely immersed in something bigger than yourself. It’s not just a place—it’s a mood, a memory, a moment suspended in time. If you're looking for a proposal location that’s both awe-inspiring and deeply romantic, Big Sur is it.

A person in white dress stands contemplatively on rocky coastal shoreline at sunset overlooking the ocean waves.

Adventure Proposals


Adventure Proposals in Big sur


For me, proposals are about so much more than just snapping a few photos—they’re about creating an unforgettable experience. I don’t just show up with a camera; I take you on an adventure. Whether we’re hiking down to a secret beach, standing on a cliff as the waves crash below, or wandering through towering redwoods, I guide you through some of my favorite places on this planet—spots that feel alive, meaningful, and totally awe-inspiring. My goal is for you to not only remember the moment you got engaged, but to remember how it felt—the wind, the light, the laughter, the stillness. It’s not just about the images, it’s about the story we get to live while we’re making them.

Meet Our Team

John Smith


VIDEOGRAPHER


Known for his attention to detail and ability to create visually stunning compositions, Bella has worked on a wide range of projects, including weddings, music videos, corporate events, and short films. Her versatile skill set allows her to adapt to various environments and effectively collaborate with clients to bring their visions to life.

Bella Roswald


VIDEOGRAPHER


John Smith is a passionate videographer with a keen eye for capturing captivating moments. With over five years of experience in the industry, John has developed a unique storytelling style that beautifully combines creativity and technical expertise.


Meet Our Team

Bella Roswald


VIDEOGRAPHER


Known for his attention to detail and ability to create visually stunning compositions, Bella has worked on a wide range of projects, including weddings, music videos, corporate events, and short films. Her versatile skill set allows her to adapt to various environments and effectively collaborate with clients to bring their visions to life.

John Smith


VIDEOGRAPHER


John Smith is a passionate videographer with a keen eye for capturing captivating moments. With over five years of experience in the industry, John has developed a unique storytelling style that beautifully combines creativity and technical expertise.

Person wearing a cozy brown knit sweater and flowy cream maxi skirt stands against soft outdoor lighting.
Couple walking along scenic coastal trail with crashing waves and rocky shoreline during golden hour at sunset.
Close-up of hands exchanging rings during an outdoor seaside wedding proposal ceremony.

This is my process:

A romantic couple embraces on a coastal clifftop overlooking rugged mountains and ocean on their wedding day.

I. Hear the vision

The first step in planning your Big Sur proposal is hearing your vision. I want to know what matters most to you—whether it’s a quiet moment on a cliff at sunset, a surprise setup with family nearby, or something completely unique. During this step, I will share with you the best Big Sur and Carmel locations!

II. Set the date

Once we have a vision and plan I will send you a proposal to secure your Big Sur Proposal Date! I require a $95 retainer at signing and the remainder is required the day of your Big Sur proposal!

III. Deliver memories

You will receive your Big Sur proposal album the night of your event! This is important to me. The picture of waking up and viewing your images anf reliving the night beore is a way to heighten your big sur proposal experience and continue this high!

Two people stand together on rocky cliffs overlooking dramatic coastline at Big Sur, California.

"Daniel was amazing and I highly recommend him for your Big Sur proposal! My fiancé is a photographer herself and was very impressed"

⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐

Chris on Google

“The moment we accessed Jane's website, we were instantly drawn to her work. Jane is like sunshine; she comes into your life and brings so much light, joy, and energy.“

Andy Ferguson
Filmmaker

“Jane's art is filled with vibrant colors and intricate details that are impossible to miss. Her work is a true reflection of her personality - warm, welcoming, and full of life.“

Andy Ferguson
Filmmaker

Your Big Sur Proposal Photographer


One of the biggest compliments I receive after a proposal sessions, besides that my couple loved their proposal imagery, is hearing how organized I am! I know you are coming spending time planning your proposal and chances are you are like 99% of all of my couples and you are not from Big Sur! I have spent countless hours developing systems to help you plan and decide on the perfect Big sur proposal locations without even needing to be in Big Sur! This is something that sets me apart from other Carmel and Big Sur photographers. They best way to access this info I keep offline is to inquire below! You will receive tons of information on my favorite Big Sur locations and more!


Click here book your Big Sur Proposal now! I will respond within 1 hour and feel free to text me as well!

Big Sur Proposal Locations

Big Sur has thousands...millions? of Proposal locations. Being a local to Big Sur, I know Big Sur's temperament. I know how the seasons treat each location. I understand the tourist habits and how the sun hits in difference spots. If you are looking for the ideal Big Sur proposal that matched your vision perfectly, you need a local to guide you to the prefect spaces. Are you looking for a proposal that is quiet and intimate, where no one is around, you need to know special Big Sur spaces that offer this. These locations are usually nameless and you cant find them on Google. For example, Garrapata is huge. Like, in the car for 15 mins before you get to the end huge. I know exactly where inside the park are the best proposal spots!

A romantic proposal moment on a scenic coastal cliff overlooking rocky outcrops and blue ocean waters at sunset.

Daniel's Approach


It began with a vision. You have already have a picture in your mind as to what you desire your proposal experience to be. My approach to your Big Sur Proposal is to hear your vision, and find the ways to make this happen! Just like Big Sur you are unique and your imagery should reflect you, and there are tons of spaces here whether it is the cozy luxury of Carmel by the Sea or rugged romance of Big Sur coast! After you decide on your ideal Big Sur location I will send you pin drops and directions unique to each Big Sur  location!

AMANDA & ANTHONY
Big Sur 2025
A classic yellow Ford Thunderbird parked on a coastal road at sunset overlooking the ocean.

How to get to Big Sur

If you're planning a Big Sur elopement, the easiest way to get there is by flying directly into Monterey Regional Airport—it’s a small, scenic airport that gets you from the plane to Carmel-by-the-Sea in just 30 minutes. If you’re flying into San Francisco or San Jose instead, plan for extra time on the road—traffic in the Bay Area and along Highway 1 can be heavy, but the drive is beautiful and well worth the journey. Once in Monterey or Carmel, take your time driving down the coast. Stop for lunch in Carmel, grab a glass of wine or a bottle of champagne, and enjoy the breathtaking one-hour drive into Big Sur. The trip is part of the experience, and every moment along the way adds to the magic of your elopement.