Romantic Mid-Day Hermosa Beach Proposal with a Picture-Perfect Picnic Setup | Lauren & Sam

Hermosa Beach • Los Angeles • California

Stephanie Ip Photography

Posted on January 24, 2025

Helpful Tips

📍 Hermosa Beach, California
📆 January 24th 2025 ☀️ Sunrise at 6:56am
🌡️ Clear sky weather
🎬 Start time at 11am

A Dreamy Hermosa Beach Proposal: Samuel & His Romantic Surprise

When Samuel reached out to us to plan and photograph his surprise proposal, he had a clear vision in mind: a heartfelt moment at 26th Street in Hermosa Beach, the exact spot where he and his partner had their first date. Our job was to not only capture this special moment but also help organize a seamless experience, including a romantic picnic setup. Here’s how it all unfolded and our key takeaways for anyone planning a surprise proposal in Los Angeles!

Photographer’s Tip:

Always verify vendors’ experience with proposals. Some companies may specialize in picnics but not fully understand the logistics of a surprise engagement, especially when photography and videography are involved.

Why Location Matters: Sticking to the Couple’s Vision

Samuel specifically chose 26th Street in Hermosa Beach because it held sentimental value. However, our vendor suggested alternative locations closer to parking lots. While convenient for setup, these spots lacked the personal connection Samuel was looking for.

We stood firm in our role as both photographers and event organizers, ensuring that the proposal stayed at the original location. On the day of the proposal, the vendor again asked to move spots last-minute, but we reiterated the importance of sticking to the couple’s plan. In the end, they made it work—and the results were magical!

Engaged couple celebrating their proposal by the ocean in Los Angeles. — A romantic beachside proposal at Hermosa Beach, complete with a dreamy picnic setup.

A couple embraces at their beach picnic proposal in Hermosa Beach, Los Angeles. — A romantic beachside proposal at Hermosa Beach, complete with a dreamy picnic setup.

Photographer’s Tip:

Capturing the Perfect Mid-Day Proposal Moment

Since this proposal took place mid-day, about four hours after sunrise, we had to be mindful of the direct sunlight and positioning. The bright lighting meant finding the right angles to avoid harsh shadows while still keeping the ocean views as a backdrop. The clear skies and shimmering waves created a vibrant and romantic atmosphere, making every captured moment even more special.

By the time we arrived, everything was set, and Samuel led his partner to the beautifully arranged picnic. As he got down on one knee, the soft ocean breeze and bright sunlight illuminated their emotions perfectly. The reaction was full of joyful tears, laughter, and heartfelt emotion—a truly picture-perfect moment!

Lessons Learned & Tips for Future Beach Proposals

Choose vendors carefully & communicate expectations – Not all highly-ranked businesses are reliable. Trust experience and firsthand recommendations. We have experience working with trusted vendors to create picture-perfect setups that are also strategically placed according to our photographer’s direction for the best lighting and angle perspective. If you’re unsure about handling all the logistics, we can be your proposal planners, ensuring every detail is thoughtfully executed for an unforgettable moment. Ensure vendors understand your priorities and the couple’s vision ahead of time.
Stick to the couple’s sentimental location & check permit requirements – The extra effort is always worth it for meaningful, emotional photos. Keep in mind that parks and recreation departments of each city have their own rules when it comes to public setups. Some locations may require a permit, so be sure to research and secure any necessary permissions in advance to avoid issues on the day of the proposal.
Plan for logistics: parking, accessibility & tide schedules – Confirm parking and accessibility ahead of time to minimize stress. If proposing on a beach, check tide schedules to avoid setting up too close to the water. Have a backup plan in case of unexpected challenges like parking issues, weather, or crowding.
Use markers & strategic positioning for the best proposal shots – A small detail like drawing a heart in the sand can greatly improve composition and angles for stunning shots. Mid-day lighting can be tricky, so using shaded areas, the ocean as a reflective backdrop, or a picnic canopy can help create the perfect balance of light.
Arrive early & plan for post-proposal moments – Mid-day proposals require strategic timing to capture the best natural light while avoiding harsh shadows. Plan extra time for engagement photos while emotions are still fresh and natural. Celebratory moments with family and friends can also make for beautiful candid shots.

Final Thoughts: Is Picnic Proposal the Right Plan for Your Proposal?

Samuel’s proposal at Hermosa Beach was a testament to how thoughtful planning and attention to detail can create unforgettable moments. Despite vendor challenges, the proposal went off beautifully, and we were honored to document such a meaningful milestone in their love story.

Are you planning a Los Angeles beach proposal? We’d love to help capture your special moment with stunning photos and expert guidance. Reach out to us today to start planning your dream engagement shoot!