There’s something magical about a sunrise proposal at Second Lake along the Big Pine Lakes trail. This summer, I had the honor of photographing Nima and Martina’s unforgettable moment on the last day of their backpacking trip.
After spending days exploring the rugged beauty of the Big Pine Lakes trail, their final morning brought the adventure to a heartwarming conclusion. The surprise proposal took place overlooking the teal-blue waters of Second Lake. As adventure elopement photographer, these are the moments I live for—capturing love stories in wild, stunning places.
The Perfect Setting for a Surprise Proposal
On the morning of the proposal, I woke up before dawn and made my way to Second Lake. Meanwhile, the quiet, crisp air set the perfect stage for the big moment. As the first rays of sunlight kissed the rocky peaks, Nima led Martina to a scenic outcrop overlooking the serene waters.
At that point, surrounded by nature, Nima got down on one knee and asked Martina to marry him. The moment was intimate and full of emotion. Soon after, their joy became contagious, with giggles and smiles lighting up the morning as Martina said yes.
Capturing the Moment
As a Mammoth elopement photographer, it’s always special to document these raw, authentic moments. After giving them a few minutes to soak it all in, I joined the couple to capture photos against the stunning backdrop. Because the light, the lake, and their connection came together so perfectly, every shot felt unforgettable.
Why Choose a Sunrise Proposal?
If you’re dreaming of a backcountry proposal or an adventure elopement, sunrise is uniquely romantic. Not only does the world feel quiet and untouched, but the early light creates a deeply personal atmosphere. A adventurous proposal, especially overlooking a place like Second Lake, offers intimacy and beauty that’s hard to match.
Book Your Adventure Photographer
Whether you’re planning a Mammoth Lakes wedding session, a surprise proposal, or a backcountry elopement, I’d love to help tell your story. Since I specialize in capturing adventurous love stories like Nima and Martina’s, I focus on moments filled with laughter, love, and stunning landscapes.
Let’s create something unforgettable together!
And don’t just take my word for it—here’s Nima’s review from our time together:
I am absolutely screaming from the top of the Sierras in recommending Jaymie for any and all photography needs. From the very first interaction, Jaymie stood out. When I reached out to her about photographing my surprise proposal at a remote location along the Sierras—several hours in from the trailhead—she was the only photographer who didn’t even hesitate. While others tried suggesting alternatives given the early start and challenging/uncertain trek, Jaymie first took the time to learn more about me and my partner and then her first response to my idea was simply, “This so clearly you and your partner. Let’s make your vision and dream moment come true.” And, let me tell you, she absolutely did.
Jaymie’s dedication to capturing our special moment was beyond impressive. She began her hike at 3 a.m. to ensure she was there in time for sunrise, and every single step of the way, she exceeded my expectations. Her communication was timely, clear, and consistent—she kept me in the loop at every stage. But beyond the technical aspects, Jaymie’s authenticity and warmth shone through, making us feel at ease from the moment we met her. Our surprise proposal felt entirely natural, unhurried, and full of genuine emotion, and that’s a testament to how comfortable she made us feel in front of the camera.
I can wholeheartedly say that Jaymie is not only a talented photographer but also a true professional with an incredible eye for capturing moments that matter. I would recommend her to anyone, without hesitation—whether for a surprise proposal or any other special occasion. She is someone who will go above and beyond to make your vision come to life in the most breathtaking way possible!
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