Richard hired me a few months in advance to photograph his Big Sur Ventana surprise proposal to Liana! The two of them are originally from Texas, and came here for a vacation at Ventana. You already know I love that place! Definitely one of my favorite venues around. He wanted it to be a woodsy session with lots of natural elements- it’s a perfect pick!

These two were an absolute delight to spend the day with! They such a calm, cool, and collected couple who really trusted me and my vision as a local Big Sur photographer. Conversation flowed easily between us and it was nothing short of refreshing! Read on for more!

How Did You Two Meet?

“We met at a concert in Dallas on September 18, 2015. Since the beginning, I’ve always loved how caring and sweet Liana is. She is just unique and quirky in her own mannerisms! I knew she was The One about two weeks after we started dating. I know it’s cliche, but at least for me, you just know when you know!” – Richard

When Did You Know You Wanted To Propose?

“I decided about 3 years ago, but we decided to wait until she graduates in May! She knows that a proposal is coming because she picked the ring out herself, but she doesn’t know when or the details. I think Liana will be completely surprised by the timing as she won’t expect it while we’re surrounded by trees. She’ll be shocked at first, but eventually cry once she realizes what the situation is.” – Richard

Surprise Proposal Photography In Big Sur

As a Big Sur photographer, I love photographing in the redwood forests just as much as I do the beaches and coastlines! I knew the views of Big Sur would make for really special backgrounds in their session, especially since Richard and Liana are staying at Ventana. That’s part of the beauty of Big Sur too. You can really get the best of both worlds when it comes to forests and beaches!

It meant the world to me that the two of them looked to my vision and were so open to and trusting of what I had in mind. Liana brought her camera too so I wanted to be sure I took a photo of them with it. I even gave her a rundown of how I photograph and what I look for. Elements like lighting and picking that perfect, picturesque spot! All while hanging out in those beautiful redwood forests. It was a great experience! I especially loved the simple round ring with a gold band that Liana picked out- super stunning!

I’m so honored to have been Richard and Liana’s Big Sur Ventana surprise proposal photographer! Their session was such a treat and I loved every minute of it. And of course, Ventana as a venue is gorgeous inside and out. If you’re in need of a local Big Sur photographer, I’m your gal! Contact me here, and we can get started!