Taylor had a plan. A sneaky, heart-melting, jaw-dropping plan. And it all started with one innocent little lie: “Hey babe, my mom wants us get anniversary photos taken while we’re in San Diego!” (Cue the suspenseful music and San Diego proposal photographer.) As a San Diego beach photographer, I live for moments like this—the kind where one person thinks they’re just showing up to look cute in front of the camera, and then, BAM, their life changes forever.

Taylor and his girlfriend (now fiancée!) flew in from Washington State under the ruse of celebrating their five-year anniversary, first time on a plane and everything! His mom, Tina, was in on the plan—because every great surprise proposal needs a trusted accomplice. And where better to pull it off than the breathtaking beaches of La Jolla? If you haven’t been, La Jolla is basically God showing off his artistic skills. Dramatic cliffs, waves that do that perfect slow roll onto the shore, and golden sand that makes you want to ditch your shoes forever. I was actually Taylor’s older sisters beach photographer 5 years ago on this same exact beach!

That evening, the sky started off sunny, then turned moody. But as we ended the session, the clouds gave way and the most magical, bright golden light spilled onto the beach. It was like the universe had RSVP’d to Taylor and Kiley’s proposal.

We strolled along the shoreline, snapping gorgeous anniversary shots at first (or so she thought). And then, right when she least expected it, Taylor dropped to one knee. Gasps. Happy tears. The whole shebang. The way they got caught up in the moment. Perfection. The way she said “YES” and questioned if this was real, “are you serious?” Even better.

Looking for a San Diego Proposal Photographer?

If you’re planning a San Diego proposal and want it captured in all its La Jolla beach glory, let’s talk. Whether it’s a surprise or a beautifully planned moment, I’m here to document every second so you can relive it forever. Book your session today with a La Jolla photographer who knows exactly what to do when the sun peeks through for that dreamy, once-in-a-lifetime glow!

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.