If you’re dreaming of proposing by the sea, it doesn’t get more cinematic than Sunset Cliffs in San Diego. As a local couples photographer, I’ve seen a lot of breathtaking locations, but Sunset Cliffs is a standout for its drama, beauty, and coastal magic.
Austin planned this proposal for Cass with intention and heart. He chose Sunset Cliffs for its sweeping ocean views and natural drama, hoping it would feel both monumental and intimate. Spoiler: it absolutely did.
I’m a San Diego couples photographer, and I understand that timing is everything. We coordinated every detail in advance — from the exact spot to stand, to the hand signal for when to drop to one knee. I was pretending to be a nature photographer and it turns out she thought that they were standing in my way of taking pretty pictures of the ocean!!
If you’re considering a proposal in San Diego (especially at a location like Sunset Cliffs), here’s what I recommend:
We timed this session for golden hour, and Austin popped the question while the golden sun was soaking us all up.
What I love most about proposal and couples photography is that the emotion is raw and real. There’s no performing, no expectation to pose — just a moment that’s honest and full of heart. Capturing that in a place like Sunset Cliffs makes it even more powerful.
Cass and Austin’s joy was contagious. They laughed, hugged, cried — and then we took a few quiet moments for golden hour portraits that felt so grounded in their story. Their families surprised Cass too by watching from a distance, which you can see in the full gallery.
If you’re looking for a San Diego couples photographer who knows how to guide you through the nerves, light, and location — I’d love to help you pull it off with ease. Your story deserves to be captured with care and honesty. Let’s talk the good stuff!