Choosing when to propose affects the experience more than the location. Many surprise proposals feel stressful simply because the secret is held all day. This guide explains why earlier timing often creates calmer reactions, when sunset is worth waiting for, and how weekday versus weekend crowds change the moment in San Diego. Planning around natural pauses instead of dramatic buildup helps the proposal feel relaxed and genuine so the focus stays on each other, not the schedule.

Many people consider asking a stranger to take a photo during a surprise proposal because it feels simple and spontaneous. The real difference, however, is not image quality but timing and reliability. A proposal happens once and reactions last seconds. This guide explains what typically happens in both situations, when a casual photo may be enough, and when planning ahead preserves the moment more completely. Understanding these outcomes helps you choose the level of certainty you want before asking the question.