Planning to pop the question in San Francisco? You’re in the right place—and don’t worry, I’ve got you. Whether you’re nervous, excited, or still figuring out the perfect plan, I’m here to help make it all feel easy (and unforgettable). After capturing hundreds of proposals around the Bay Area, we know where the best views hide, how to avoid the crowds, and what time of day the fog behaves. This isn’t just about photos—it’s about making one of the most important moments in your life feel effortless, private, and totally you.
I’m Joseph—your go-to proposal photographer and local guide to making magic happen in San Francisco. With over a decade behind the lens I don’t just take photos—I help choreograph unforgettable moments. Whether you're planning something simple and intimate or want a bit of flair, I’m here to make sure everything flows smoothly.
Choose a spot in San Francisco—or let us help you find the perfect one—and we’ll work together to create a proposal plan that feels natural, exciting, and totally “you.” Not sure where to start? No problem. We’ve done this hundreds of times and have fine-tuned a process that avoids common pitfalls, keeps things discreet, and makes the experience smooth from start to finish. From iconic backdrops like the Golden Gate Bridge to hidden gems only locals know, we’ll guide you every step of the way. And yes—your partner won’t suspect a thing (or at least not until it’s too late to ruin the surprise 😄).
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Already got your surprise proposal all planned out? Amazing—just share the details and I’ll follow your lead. The rate stays the same unless there’s something logistically complex (like restricted access or coordinating a big family surprise). For most outdoor weekday proposals in San Francisco, the fee is $495. But I recommend combine proposal and portraits ($695+). Scroll down for prices.
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Don’t stress. I’ll help you choose the perfect spot, time it for the best light (or least fog), and blend in so your partner never sees it coming. Whether you want something quiet and tucked away or something bold with the Golden Gate in the background, I’ll guide you through the options—and make sure it feels right for you two. I’ll even share a short video guide once we’ve got the date locked in, so you’ll feel fully prepared and confident.
A compilation of our proposal video reels
Worried about crowds or keeping things private? You’re not alone. Some people want an intimate, tucked-away moment—others love the idea of sharing their joy with the world. Either way, the moment your partner says “yes” becomes its own little bubble. I’ve photographed proposals in busy parks, quiet cliffsides, and everywhere in between—and trust me, when it happens, it all fades away. We’ll pick the right setting together so it feels true to your story.
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You don’t have to worry about how we’ll find each other, where to stand, or whether you’ll drop to one knee in the wrong spot—I’ve got a system for all of it. We’ll share live locations, I’ll blend in like a tourist with a camera, and you’ll know exactly when and where to go. You’ll also get a simple video guide that walks you through the entire plan. No awkward eye contact, no guessing games—just clear, calm coordination that keeps your moment stress-free and beautifully captured.
And if you're wondering, what if the weather turns or plans shift last minute? — we've got you. San Francisco has its moods (hello, fog!), but after hundreds of proposals, we’ve learned how to flow with it. Whether it's adjusting timing, swapping locations, or pausing for a patch of sun, we always aim to be as flexible as humanly possible. I work with a small, trusted team—photographers I’ve collaborated with for years—so even in the rare case of overlaps or curveballs, you’ll still be in great hands. We just ask for a little communication, and we’ll do everything we can to make your day stress-free, even when the forecast (or traffic) doesn’t cooperate.
A simple, heartfelt way to capture the moment.
This weekday-only package focuses on the proposal itself—perfect for those who want the moment documented beautifully and discreetly, without extras.
Includes:
Coverage of the actual proposal
20–50 high-resolution images
Password-protected gallery for sharing and downloading
Note: Available for outdoor, natural light proposals in San Francisco only.
A little more time, a lot more magic.
We’ll photograph the proposal and then spend extra time capturing candid and posed portraits right afterward, so you walk away with a mini engagement session as well.
Includes:
All proposal images
5 additional high-resolution portraits (with the option to upgrade)
Mix of candid and posed moments
Weekday price: $695 | Friday–Sunday & holidays: $795
Outdoor natural light only.
More time for creativity, connection, and variety.
This session gives us the space to capture the excitement of the proposal and explore different backdrops, angles, and moments with your partner.
Includes:
All proposal images
25 additional high-resolution portraits
Up to one hour of coverage
Weekday price: $995 | Friday–Sunday & holidays: $1,095
For the dreamers, adventurers, and storytellers.
This two-hour session gives you full flexibility—perfect for travel-inspired proposals, scenic hikes, or simply capturing the full arc of your experience.
Includes:
All high-resolution images from the session
Up to two hours of coverage
Option to apply unused time toward a future shoot
Weekday price: $1,695 | Friday–Sunday & holidays: $1,795
If you’re unsure which package is right for you, here’s what I usually recommend:
The Deluxe Proposal is the most popular—and for good reason. It not only captures the big “yes” but also gives us time afterward to create a few guided portraits during that magical “we just got engaged!” window. The energy is pure joy, and the photos we capture in that moment often become forever favorites. It’s the perfect mix of candid emotion and intentional beauty.
The Premium Proposal is ideal if you’d like to slow things down and get even more variety—different backdrops, more creative angles, or simply more time to be in the moment together. With about an hour to work with, we can fully explore the location and create a more expansive, storytelling set of portraits.
The Unlimited Proposal is designed for special situations—maybe you’re planning something elaborate, shooting content for an engagement announcement, wedding slideshow, or you want to visit multiple locations. It gives us complete flexibility, and we can even bank any unused time for a future shoot.
Drone is available as a video add-on, and it’s a fantastic way to capture your proposal from a cinematic, bird’s-eye view. It doesn’t replace traditional photos—it complements them. Some locations are especially drone-friendly, like open coastal areas or wide parks, and if your setting works well for it, it can really elevate the moment (and give you a stunning keepsake to share). Let me know if you’re curious, and I’ll guide you through the possibilities.
PROPOSAL PLANNING - SEE PLANNING PAGE HERE.
DRONE VIDEO REEL ADD-ON - $450 ($550) - see sample.
VIDEOGRAPHY - ($1,500+) we will create a short feature proposal film set to a song of your choice - similar to a wedding highlight movie. See sample.
TRAVEL FEES: None added for San Francisco. Please ask about other locations. Fee depends on the chosen package.
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As a photographer who has spent years capturing life's most cherished moments, I can confidently say that San Francisco is one of the most stunning cities to propose in. With its picturesque landscapes, iconic landmarks, and diverse settings, the City by the Bay provides the perfect backdrop for your unforgettable proposal.
San Francisco is home to an array of breathtaking sceneries, from the sweeping vistas of the Golden Gate Bridge to the dramatic sunsets at Sutro Baths. These locations offer a captivating ambiance for your proposal, ensuring that your special moment is not only memorable but visually stunning as well.
The Golden Gate Bridge is undoubtedly one of the most iconic landmarks in San Francisco. Proposing with this architectural marvel in the background adds a touch of grandeur to your romantic moment. Other noteworthy landmarks include Coit Tower, the Palace of Fine Arts, and the Painted Ladies, all of which make for fantastic proposal settings.
San Francisco boasts numerous picturesque beaches that serve as idyllic locations for a seaside proposal. Baker Beach, for instance, offers a captivating view of the Golden Gate Bridge and a serene atmosphere perfect for a romantic moment. Other beaches, such as China Beach and Marshall's Beach, provide equally stunning backdrops for your big question.
The city's numerous parks and gardens offer a verdant setting for your proposal. Golden Gate Park, one of the largest urban parks in the country, features picturesque spots such as the Japanese Tea Garden and Stow Lake. Alternatively, you can opt for the charming ambiance of the Shakespeare Garden or the enchanting views from the top of Bernal Heights Park.
San Francisco is a hilly city, which means it's home to numerous viewpoints that showcase its beauty. Twin Peaks, for example, provides a panoramic view of the city skyline, while Hawk Hill in the Marin Headlands offers a breathtaking vista of the Golden Gate Bridge. These locations serve as a dramatic backdrop for your proposal, making the moment all the more magical.
For those looking for a more unconventional proposal location, San Francisco has no shortage of unique and quirky spots. The colorful mosaic staircase at 16th Avenue Tiled Steps, for instance, adds a whimsical touch to your special moment, while the Labyrinth at Land's End provides a serene and meditative atmosphere.
In conclusion, San Francisco's diverse and picturesque landscapes make it an exceptional city to propose in. Whether you're looking for a beachfront setting, an iconic landmark, or a lush park, the City by the Bay offers a multitude of options that cater to every couple's taste. As a photographer who has witnessed countless proposals in this magnificent city, I can attest that San Francisco truly captures the essence of love and creates an unforgettable experience for those who choose to start their journey here.
