As a Charlottesville wedding photographer, I get asked to be part of a lot of meaningful moments in my couple’s love stories. However, one of my favorite moments to capture, other than weddings of course, is a surprise proposal. The raw emotion, total surprise, and infatuation are just so exciting to photograph! Here are my tips as a surprise proposal photographer.
Surprise Proposal Photographer
When planning a surprise proposal, find the right photographer because they will determine the success of your surprise. As well as be able to capture this once in a lifetime moment! I have done proposals in two different ways.
The first is a complete surprise! We meet at a location, and I basically hide in the bushes waiting for the big moment. Typically, this is done in a garden or park after a dinner date. This way, you get your girlfriend dressed up without spoiling the surprise of the proposal.
The other way to capture a surprise proposal is by having photos as a couple!
A Reason For Photos
If you want to have your proposal during a photoshoot without giving away the surprise, then I recommend having a good reason for pictures. Something that will not draw suspicion and seem genuine. This couple wanted to have anniversary pictures to celebrate their year together as a couple. Here are some other reasons for couples photography.
You bought a house and want photos to decorate with. Or maybe you got a new puppy and want to capture the sweetness of puppy-hood. At the very least, you can work with her best friend to plant to idea of having couples photos into her mind, so it seems to be her idea!
Location
One of the most important tips I can give as a surprise proposal photographer is to choose the right location. Location is everything! I personally love to take a quick and easy hike into Shenandoah for epic views and backdrops. However, engagement photos on a lake’s beach, in a garden, or even at a local park can be just as dreamy!
Time Of Day
In addition to the location, consider the time of day you will propose. When working with a surprise proposal photographer, they will more than likely recommend the evening right before sunset. This is the best time of day for engagement photos because of the warmth of the sun setting low in the sky. However, I have captured engagements in the morning hours as well, and those photos turned out just as dreamy! So it really depends on the vibe you are going for, as well as your photographers skills and abilities.
When planning a surprise proposal, there is a lot to consider. Reach out and let’s plan your dream proposal together!
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