There’s nothing quite like photographing a surprise engagement. These sessions are filled with energy, anticipation, and pure joy, and they’ve quickly become some of my absolute favorites to capture here at The Sea Ranch.


Making It Memorable

A proposal at The Sea Ranch is already unforgettable, but the photographs ensure you can relive the moment for years to come. My role is to blend into the background, keep the surprise intact, and then step forward to create portraits that tell the story of your engagement.


If you’re ready to propose, let’s make it unforgettable. Contact me to start planning your surprise engagement at The Sea Ranch.

Planning the Perfect Proposal

Every surprise engagement begins with planning. I work closely with the groom-to-be ahead of time to map out the logistics—where to stand, how to approach, and how to make sure everything feels natural. The goal is always to stay out of sight so the moment is completely unexpected. When she realizes what’s happening, the emotion is real and unforgettable.

Aerial view of rugged coastline with rocky cliffs and blue ocean waters during daytime.

The Emotional Moment

The reaction is what makes these sessions so powerful. Most of the time, she’s completely surprised—eyes wide, tears flowing, laughter and hugs. Being able to quietly document that instant, without intruding, is something I love. These photos tell the story of one of the most important milestones in a couple’s life.

Couple enjoying a scenic coastal view on a grassy cliff overlooking the blue ocean waves crashing against rocks below.

A Short Couples Session After

After the proposal, we usually spend a little time together for a short engagement session. This allows me to capture portraits while the excitement is still fresh. The joy and energy carry through the images, and couples love having these first photos to share with family and friends right away.

Two people walking on a wooden boardwalk path through coastal grasslands at sunset with rolling hills in the background.

Dune Drift Close Is My Favorite Spot

While The Sea Ranch has many breathtaking backdrops, Dune Drift Close is my favorite for surprise engagements. The location offers a variety of unique vistas: a winding path through hedgerows, a wooden bridge with character, stairs that lead down to the beach, and dramatic bluff views of the ocean. It feels private, yet expansive, and creates a perfect mix of intimacy and grandeur. Easy parking and access also make it stress-free when timing matters most.


Silhouetted figures walk along a scenic hilltop trail during golden hour as the sun sets over rolling hills.