January 14, 2023 / couples Proposal Photography
5 Proposal Photography Tips to Plan the Perfect Surprise Proposal
Are you planning a surprise proposal soon? As someone specializing in proposal photography, you’re going to want to stick around for this one!
Knowing how to pull off the perfect surprise proposal is a delicate little dance. But you’ll be more than ready after reading through my 5 best tips!
We’re covering everything from choosing the perfect location to not being suspicious.
So, grab a notebook and pencil, and get ready to take notes!
1. Location: How to Pick the Best Spot for Your Proposal Photography
First and foremost, the location! Before you do anything else, you should choose a location for your surprise proposal (and proposal photography).
Do you want to pop the question at a beach, mountains, cliffs, Redwoods, or a sentimental place for the two of you? Do you want something off the beaten path or to have a specific rock in the background?
Luckily, we have so many gorgeous places in California to work with! I’ve photographed surprise proposals at the beaches of Big Sur, in the Redwoods, at vineyards, and so many other amazing spots!
Whatever you decide for your location, make sure it’s something both you and your partner will love.
2. The Right Amount of Privacy: Planning the Perfect Proposal Photography Session
It’s always a good idea to chat with your partner about their ideal proposal before the big day. Ask them some general questions, and get a feel for if they’d prefer a private moment or a big celebration.
Will they be cool with a crowd? Or would they like something more intimate?
3. How to Choose The Best Time of Day
When planning the perfect proposal, timing is everything. While you’ll want to plan around your regular schedule, so you don’t become suspicious, I have a few tips.
From a photography standpoint, I usually recommend an early sunrise proposal or a sunset proposal. Here’s why!
For sunrise proposals, busy locations are less crowded. This is a great option if you want a popular spot like Pfeiffer Beach. Plus, you’ll have the whole day to celebrate together afterward!
One of the benefits of proposing at sunset is the romantic and intimate atmosphere it creates, with breathtaking lighting. However, popular spots such as beaches may be more crowded at sunset.
While proposing in the middle of the day can be easier to schedule, it can also be a bit risky due to the crowds and poor lighting conditions. Choosing a more private location, like the Redwoods, may be best if you’re planning a noon proposal. The canopy from the tall Redwoods can provide both privacy and better light for your photos.
Recap on Timing:
- Sunrise = Less Crowded + Have The Whole Day to Celebrate
- Sunset = Romantic Sunset Possibilities
- Middle of the Day = Lighting Not Great + More Crowded
4. Create a Believable Story to Avoid Suspicion
Here’s something most people skip…but it’s so important! Have. A. Believable. Story!
Most of these tips will help you build a credible story AND get your partner to dress for the occasion too!
Tips to be less suspicious:
- Plan a romantic walk on the beach followed by a fancy dinner reservation.
- Hire a planned picnic as a romantic evening together.
- Take a beautiful hike and stop in a designated spot.
- Make plans for after the proposal. Meeting with friends or anything that will make the “event” seem normal.
- Plan an outing for the day, like visiting a place you’ve always wanted to see together.
- Propose on a special occasion – birthdays, holidays, or anniversaries are always a great excuse!
- If it’s near a holiday, tell your partner you’d like to take a quick photo for Christmas cards, and want them to dress for the occasion.
- Plan a regular photo session (like the family below did for maternity photos) and pop the question during the shoot!
If you give too many clues, you may give off suspicious vibes. Do what you can, but don’t stress about it!
5. To Hide or Not Hide Your Photographer?
Here’s the deal, hiding like a ninja is part of the gig with surprise proposals. But it can limit how many angles I can get when it’s “go time,”, especially in cliff areas. And during this big moment, it’s all about angles. So if I’m stuck in one spot on a cliff and you’re not faced just right, I might miss the perfect shot. We don’t want that!
When possible, I always suggest having me be a regular bystander in the area, like a hiker or beach-goer taking photos of the waves.
Go Time! How I Pull Off Surprise Proposal Photography!
Before photographing the big moment, I have a secret code with the person proposing. Once the code has been given, I start taking photos from a distance with my zoom lens and slowly move in closer.
Once the cat’s out of the bag, I’ll keep documenting the moment and do some fun celebratory photos!
Pop the Bubbly!
I love getting photos of the couples celebrating with cider or champagne. I know that’s a lot to carry along without being suspicious, so I always offer to bring the bubbly and glasses!
And if you’re feeling adventurous, give the bottle a shake before opening it! It makes for some of the most fun and lively photos!
Engagement Photos
After we’ve raised a glass to celebrate the moment, I try to include a mini or full engagement session while you’re still living in the moment! These photos are great to use to announce your engagement on social media, with friends and family, and in your wedding announcements!
And that’s a wrap!
I hope these tips have been helpful as you plan your surprise proposal. I just threw a lot of information at you, but here’s one last tip: DON’T SWEAT IT!
If things don’t go exactly as planned, just enjoy the moment and roll with it. You’ve got a lifetime of adventures ahead of you. And if something unexpected or comical happens, it’ll make for a great story at your wedding.
Ready to make your surprise proposal one to remember?
With my experience in proposal photography, I’ll help you plan the perfect day that’ll be one for the books! I photograph couples all over California, from Big Sur to Lake Tahoe and everywhere in between! Will you be next?
