Taylor & Madison
BIG SUR SURPRISE PROPOSAL DETAILS
BIG SUR, CA
SOBERANES POINT
LOCATION INFO
This is one of my favorite spots to shoot. Big Sur is one of the most surreal landscapes in California. Some moments it feels like you are driving on the Maui, Hawaii coast only to realize you are only a few hours away from San Francisco. From the mountainside to the oceans, Big Sur is truly incredible. Its hearty stretch of coast that feels pre-historic, and coastlines that are rough and rugged filled with crashing waves, rich hues of icy blues perfectly co-existing with the magnetic pull of the mountains. The perfect place to capture your engagement photos while fueling your hearts desire for adventure. Prepare yourselves and let’s go on a coastal scenic drive along highway 1, and stop every chance we get because the view points are just THAT good.
BIG SUR PHOTO LOCATIONS
SAN MARTIN ROCK VIEW
LIMEKILN STATE PARK
SOBERANES POINT TRAILHEAD
JADE COVE TRAIL
MCWAY FALLS
KIRK CREEK AND NACIMIENTO “HIDDEN” ROAD
PFEIFFER BEACH
SAND DOLLAR BEACH
SOUTH MCWAY FALLS
THE ICONIC BIXBY BRIDGE
POINT SUR LIGHT HOUSE
PFEIFFER BEACH (ICONIC PORTAL ROCK)
KEYHOLE ARCH AT PFEIFFER BEACH
DATE + TIME
Session Date: Monday September 18, 2023
Session Time: 6 pm - sunset
EMBRACE THE WEATHER
Truth is the weather changes pretty much constantly here, one moment it’s sunny, then the wind picks up, fog rolls in, rain falls, and then the sun peaks out again, on and on the cycle goes. SO, I highly recommend to just embrace the elements they actually enhance the images by adding energy, movement, and emotion!
In order for us the get the best lighting possible, we’ll shoot around these times below:
Evening
Golden Hour 6:37 pm - 7:26 pm
Sunset 7:11 pm
Blue Hour 7:26 pm - 7:36 pm
BIG SUR TRAILS
Whether you’re looking for an easy stroll or a serious challenge, the geographic diversity of California’s Central Coast makes it an ideal place to explore on foot. From secluded beaches to majestic mountains to verdant forests, the landscape surrounding Big Sur offers a wide variety of unforgettable hiking experiences.
HELPFUL LINKS TO BIG SUR TRAILS
WHAT TO WEAR
Generally, I suggest wearing something you feel comfortable in and makes you happy, but take into consideration that this is a photo session, and will probably be shared and kept for years to come. Bring different layers and options in the car to pull and choose from, you can change as many times as you want this works great since we’ll be changing locations often and it will add a lot of variety to your images! Sticking to neutral colors and earth tones work well with any landscape. Nothing to bright and loud, unless that’s the look we’re going for. Also, consider wearing something classic that will remain timeless in your photos. Instead of buying new clothes for the photoshoot, consider renting dresses. This is a more affordable alternative than buying an expensive dress.
Pro Tip: Consider a flowy long dress to wear on the coast they make for some amazing images because the wind really brings the dress to life.
CAN I BRING PROPS?
My approach to photography leans more on the natural side, meaning I like using what’s around us to make our photos stand out. But I don’t mind you bringing a blanket, that will compliment your photos. The blanket should be neutral in color or white and one you don’t mind getting a little dirty.
ARE YOU GOING TO TAKE DETAIL SHOTS?
Yes, absolutely! I love taking detailed shoots, so make sure your nails are trimmed, hair combed and looking nice. I’ll definitely be taking those fire ring shots!!!
WHAT SHOES SHOULD I WEAR?
The terrain varies at Big Sur, wear shoes with good treading if we plan on scaling down to some of the beaches because the rocks become super slippery and dangerous. Wear something comfortable, that will match your outfit, like brown sandals, or some boots. I wouldn’t suggest wearing heels or tall shoes at this location. Unless, you carry it to the location and change over.
If you have any more question about what to wear, feel free to reach out to me!!
What to Do During the Proposal
Take Notes - You don’t need to have your speech totally written out, but spend a little time jotting down what you’d like to say. Getting your thoughts on paper will give you some direction when it’s time to pop the question, even if you end up winging half of it anyway. As for what to say when you actually propose, typically you should emphasize on your partner's best qualities, or even recap the moment you knew she was the one. It’s just really about being genuine and making your special person feel so loved and excited in that moment. Talking about what you love about her and how excited you are for your future together would be the two best things to bring up. Of course, don't forget to tack on the "Will you marry me?" bit.
Check out this helpful link, if you’re struggle with what to say
Discreetly store the ring box
Nothing ruins the spontaneity faster than your partner seeing the bulge of a ring box from your pocket. Instead of keeping the ring in your pocket, consider stashing the ring in your sock. So that when you’re on bended knees, it’s ready for you to grab.
Pop the Question
Take a deep breath, get down on one knee, and pitch the sentimental speech you've probably rehearsed a million times. It really doesn't matter which knee you go down on, but if you've stashed the ring in your sock, then kneel on the opposite side.
Don't Rush It
After you've asked for your partner's hand in marriage, let them have a moment. Ample time must be given to process/cry/hug it out. Then, once they've collected themselves, read the situation to figure out when to officially put on the ring. Or your partner may beat you to the punch and hold out their hand for you to do the honors.
WHAT YOU SHOULD EXPECT
Whether this is your first time hiring a photographer or not, I want you to be sure the experience I wanna give you is everything you could dream of and more. It’s worth being captured in a way that will bring back all the feels for generations to come. I want you to be able to look back at these photos for decades and feel the love you feel for each other right now. This session is an opportunity to be authentically you. To feel relaxed, come as you are and more so feel the vibe of the environment and the moment.
My style is heavily focused on real moments. Nothing staged, nothing forced, nothing set up, no awkward half smiles. It’s the real good stuff. I of course will guide you as we shoot so you’re not awkwardly standing there wondering what to do, but it’s important to me that you two are being fully yourselves and present with one another. This way, we can capture you for who you really are.
We create together.
I make sure that the way I’m interacting, shooting, and editing is reflective of who you are and how things actually felt. It’s the little details like this that go a long way. The artistic choices I make aren’t to benefit me because these are your memories, not mine. I focus on quality over quantity so we can create something together you’ll value forever.
LETS CAPTURE YOUR ADVENTURE, FIERCELY AND BEAUTIFULLY TOGETHER.
THINGS TO CONSIDER
These sessions are a great way to pamper both yourselves or just your fiancée-to-be with hair and makeup. This will not only allow her to look her best in your proposal photos, but it’s a great way to make her feel special. It's a win win! A professional knows just how much to apply for the camera so that you look your best. And when you look your best you'll feel your best. It will also come across in the photos, too!
DON’T FORGET TO BOOK YOUR APPOINTMENT WITH YOUR HAIR/MAKEUP ARTIST ( if needed)
AFTER OUR SESSION
I know you cannot wait to get a glimpse of your photos and I promise I will send a sneak peek your way as soon as I possibly can. You will receive your gallery no later than 4 weeks after your session date.
I am so happy when you share your images with friends and family. Make sure to credit and tag me when you post them online. It’s highly appreciated, because I’m always excited to see your favorites and others that like the images can easily find their way to my page.
Also I kindly ask you to not add any filters when posting on Instagram (or similar apps).
ALBUMS + PRINTS
Have you ever experienced that you get photos printed and the colors look nothing like they did on your computer? That sucks, as does letting your photos waste away on hard drives and USB sticks. You have invested a lot of heart, thought and effort into your family session and the photographs tell this story. Celebrate them by putting them in an album that is always at hand when you want to flip through these memories. Personally, I make a huge effort to print both my professional and personal work as often as possible. The feelings of holding these memories in your hands is just so special.
ALBUMS
I offer a handful of beautiful albums that I have picked carefully after comparing a ton of options out on the market. My standards are high and I would never compromise quality, considering how important these photographs are for you and how long this album will keep you company; a lifetime.
PRINTS
I’ve made it especially easy for you to print quality photos straight from the gallery you’ll receive from me. Your photos will be printed in quality paper true to color.
STILL HAVE QUESTIONS?
LET’S CONNECT
I’m all ears! Let me know if there’s something I missed that you’re still wondering about! Other than that, I can’t wait to create some beautiful memories with you!
I can’t wait to show off your photos on Instagram
