red bluff proposal
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A Sunset Surprise – Red Bluff Proposal

A few weeks ago, I got a message from Simon. He was planning a surprise proposal for his partner Nasya while they were on their dream holiday in Melbourne, and he wanted me to secretly tag along with my camera. Safe to say, I was instantly in.

He’d done his research and landed on Red Bluff in Black Rock, a tucked-away gem of a spot with golden cliffs and those kind of sunsets that don’t need a filter. The plan was to pop the question just before sunset, when the light’s all soft and buttery.

So, there I was, hiding in plain sight on the beach pretending to be just another sunset-lover with a camera. When they walked down the path and made their way across the sand, I could feel the excitement bubbling mine and Simon’s. As soon as he paused and dropped to one knee, I started quietly inching closer, shooting the moment as it unfolded, raw and real.

I was lucky to have my friend Fran join me too (you might’ve seen her in this recent branding shoot. It’s always a treat to have someone to bounce ideas off and laugh with when Reuben—my forever sidekick—can’t make it. Fran is a creative gem and having her there made the whole thing feel like a mini adventure.

Simon and Nasya told me they were “awkward in photos” (classic!)—but honestly, they were naturals. They were so wrapped up in each other, it was easy to step back and just let the love do its thing. No awkward posing, no forced smiles—just them, being totally themselves.

As the sun slipped away and that golden light gave way to twilight, I pulled out my flash and played around with some creative shots. I love ending a session with something a little bold and arty—photos they can hang on their wall that feel like more than a memory. Like art. Like love.

Thinking of popping the question yourself? I’d love to help you plan something just as special. Whether you’ve already picked the perfect spot or need a hand finding one, I’m here for the quiet planning, the sneaky hiding, and the heartfelt documenting.

Red Bluff is a stunning choice (clearly!), but I’m always up for scouting new secret corners too. If you’re dreaming up a surprise proposal in Melbourne—or beyond—get in touch. Let’s make some magic and memories you’ll never forget.