These surprise wedding proposal photos in La Jolla didn’t just document the event—they told their story. The beginning of the rest of their lives, with the ocean as witness and one very lucky photographer (that’s me) behind the lens.

Some moments don’t just tug at your heart—they full-on bear-hug it. That’s what this La Jolla beach proposal felt like. When Andrew reached out to hire me for surprise engagement photography in San Diego, I knew we were about to make magic (cue Beyoncé wind + ocean breeze). His plan? Propose to Kelly in the kind of dreamy coastal setting that belongs in a Nicholas Sparks novel—but without the melodrama, and with way better snacks.

We met on a stretch of La Jolla beach that gives peak golden hour. You know the one: cliffs to your left, seafoam to your right, and that perfect stretch of sand that somehow makes every photo look like a lifestyle ad. But here’s the thing—this wasn’t just a pretty backdrop. Andrew had orchestrated the moment down to the mini cheese board. He hired a local proposal setup company to create an intimate picnic area with pillows and a basket filled with all of Kelly’s favorite things. From her go-to drink to those bougie crackers she always sneaks into the grocery cart—he nailed it.

As they strolled along the beach, I kept my camera low and casual—just your friendly neighborhood La Jolla photographer hanging out with a zoom lens. When they reached the proposal spot, Andrew got down on one knee. It was the kind of proposal that doesn’t just get likes on Instagram—it gets passed down as a “you won’t believe what Dad did” story at family dinners for decades.

And the best part? We captured every second of it. Her teary smile. His nervous hands. The sunset that looked like it knew what it was doing. After the big YES, we rolled right into their engagement photo session. No need for stiff poses—just them being wildly, newly in love. Dancing barefoot on the beach. Sneaking kisses like teenagers. Holding hands like the rest of the world disappeared behind those crashing waves and at the end of the walk, he surprised her with the cliffside picnic setup. Kelly’s reaction said it all. Shock. Tears. Laughter. Repeat.

Planning a surprise wedding proposal in San Diego or La Jolla?

Want it captured with heart, humor, and photos that actually feel like you? I’ve got you. From stealth-mode prep to the “she said yes” celebration, I’ll be your behind-the-scenes cheerleader and camera ninja.

Let’s make your big moment unforgettable—and yeah, let’s make sure you’ve got the photos to prove it. Reach out to book your surprise proposal and engagement photography session in San Diego. Bring the love—I’ll bring the lens.

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.