In the heart of sunny San Diego — where their love story first began — Caleb and Katie returned for a Thanksgiving weekend packed with purpose. What looked like a casual walk down memory lane quickly turned into one of the most photogenic surprise proposals I’ve ever had the honor of photographing. Caleb had secretly planned a sentimental journey through their old San Diego stomping grounds, leading Katie through the spots that once held their first dates, inside jokes, and little moments that built a big love.

Now living out of state, the couple made the special trip back just for this milestone. (And yes, Katie was kind of onto him — his heart was practically pounding out of his chest.) They reached Sunset Cliffs — one of the most iconic spots for a San Diego proposal — and just as the sky broke open with a burst of golden light, he dropped to one knee.

Cue the laughter — because yep, she already knew deep down what was happening. Katie had clocked the nervous energy, the slightly-too-perfect timing, and the way Caleb kept checking his pocket like he was guarding a national treasure. Still, when he dropped to one knee at Sunset Cliffs with the Pacific crashing below and the sky putting on its golden-hour best, it hit her like a wave. The moment was no less magical just because she saw it coming.

From that perfectly timed November sunset to the happiness on Katie’s face, this proposal had everything a San Diego engagement photographer dreams of: a killer view, real emotion, and a couple head-over-heels in love. Their gallery now holds every moment — the anticipation, the question, the answer, and everything in between.

Planning your own San Diego proposal or engagement session on the beach?

Whether you’re dreaming of Sunset Cliffs, Windansea, or the dreamy sand dunes of Coronado, I’ve got the gear, the experience, and the stealth skills to help you pull it off without a hitch. Let’s make your forever start with the perfect view. Book your San Diego proposal and engagement photography session today — because moments like this deserve more than a blurry iPhone photo.

 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 engagement session, click HERE.