Nothing like a little “is this really happening right now?” moment at one of the dreamiest spots on the California coast. Matt pulled off the surprise of all surprises, including a proposal photographer San Diego style, near Sunset Cliffs Natural Park—aka, a favorite place to propose in San Diego—and I got to be the fly on the rocks hiding in plain sight.

He brought his longtime girlfriend Michelle to the cliffs “just for the views.” (LOL. Sure, Matt. Just for the views.) But what she got? A diamond ring and the beginning of forever.

Matt and I had secretly schemed this Sunset Cliffs proposal in advance, down to the exact bend in the trail and the golden hour timing that would make any engagement photographer in San Diego weep with joy. And when he dropped to one knee, Michelle’s face did the thing—that total mix of shock, joy, and “oh-my-god-yes-yes-yes.”

After the big “yes!” moment, we strolled along the cliffs and soaked up every last drop of sunlight. Candid, glowy, windswept engagement photos? Yes please. This is what I live for as a San Diego engagement photographer: the real smiles, the messy happy hair, and the kind of light you can’t fake.

Sunset Cliffs is one of San Diego’s most stunning places for a proposal—when done safely. With its wide ocean views, natural rock formations, and that “how-is-this-even-real” sunset light, it’s no wonder so many couples are drawn here. But it’s not the place to play daredevil for the ‘gram. Stay on the trails, soak up the beauty, and let the moment (not the ledge) take your breath away.

Matt and Michelle, you nailed it. The surprise, the setting, the love. Wishing you both all the good things—and many more epic sunset moments to come.

Are you looking for a proposal photographer San Diego style?

Whether you’re barefoot and playful or dressed to the nines (heels in hand, obviously), there are many San Diego beaches and locations ready to show off your love story.

I’ll handle the posing (or not-posing) and make sure you look like you, but with better lighting and zero awkwardness.

Lisa G (Elle G) is a San Diego beach photographer based in Pacific Beach, CA. Proudly serving San Diego’s coastal communities: La Jolla, Del Mar, Encinitas, Mission Beach, Mission Bay, Sunset Cliffs, Ocean Beach, Point Loma and Coronado. 858-344-1068. To chat about booking your own portrait session click HERE.