Photography Tips

October 11, 2021

How to Plan a Surprise Proposal Photoshoot

So, you made the decision to pop the question to the love of your life? How exciting! Now that you’ve picked out the perfect ring, and rehearsed exactly what you want to say when you get down on one knee… Let’s plan out the logistics! In today’s post, I’m going to share exactly how to plan a surprise proposal photoshoot.

Book a regular session

Hiring a professional photographer for your proposal is the perfect way to capture and preserve the memory for a lifetime. Trust me, your boo-thang will thank you later for going the extra step and making sure the moment is documented.

There are a couple of routes you can take when planning your surprise proposal photos. The first and easiest option is to plan a regular couples session with your partner. If you think they would be excited to take photos together, tell them you booked a couples session for the two of you as a gift. This option tends to be the easiest because you both will look picture-ready, and there’s overall less stress regarding the surprise factor.

When going this route, you can plan ahead with your photographer so they know the exact moment you’re about to ask. This could be a simple gesture like a long hug or a code word. Typically, I like to give my couples a certain prompt, and at that moment, you’ll know it’s go-time.

Go stealth-mode

If you’re the type of person that typically isn’t into taking photos, planning a couples session might give your significant other an idea of what’s to come. In that case, we’ll have to be a little more sneaky with our approach.

Although it takes a little more preciseness and preparation, having a photographer present for a surprise proposal photoshoot without your partner’s knowledge, is totally possible.

Here’s how to make that happen:

Choose your location- choose a location that is meaningful to you both. Once the photographer knows where the proposal is happening, they can give you details on where they will hide and what direction you should be facing.
Decide what to wear- I think anyone being proposed to wants to feel confident and look good while it happens. Plan a date night or tell them you’re going to dinner, so it’s not suspicious when you encourage them to dress up. Bonus points: treat them to a manicure a couple of days prior, so their nails look perfect in the close-up ring shots. Those shots tend to be a go-to for social media announcements.
Choose the time- Let your photographer know the exact time you’re planning on proposing, and make sure to watch the clock. You may want to feel it out and go a little rogue here, but by doing so, you’re taking the risk that your photographer may miss that perfect opportunity to capture your special moment.

Bonus Tips for your Surprise Proposal Photoshoot

TAKE IT SLOW- when you’re down on your knee, try not to rush through the proposal. This allows your photographer to capture as many photos as possible.
STAY FOCUSED- It’s totally normal to be nervous during a proposal, but try not to overthink it. Do your best to be fully present and don’t worry about posing or looking at the camera. As a photographer, I love capturing these moments in the most natural and candid way possible.
HIRE A PROFESSIONAL- I’m sure you have friends that can take beautiful photos on their iPhone, and I may sound a bit biased, but investing in a professional photographer is the only way to ensure the moment is captured and captured WELL.