proposals are very special, and everyone has a different idea of how they would like it to go: some want it photographed and others want it totally private and intimate. there’s no wrong way!
if your client wants this exciting memory photographed, having a photographer to help plan and make sure it goes flawlessly is so helpful!!
here are my tips on how to photograph your client’s proposal so it’s just as perfect in their photos as it is in their memory!
remind them to use a SMALL ring box
you and I both know, their soon to be fiance is smart, so remind them that trying to lug around the ring in a box the size of jupiter is going to spoil it. suggest they grab a small box or something different to keep the proposal a secret and so their fiance-to-be won’t suspect anything.
encourage them to start being spontaneous
if their proposal is a big surprise, remind them that doing a few spontaneous and fun things similar to how they plan to propose so their fiance doesn’t expect something when they randomly ask them to get dressed up for a fancy night out!randomly head out for a hike or take a scenic drive in the weeks leading up to the proposal, that way, when they finally do plan to pop the question, it won’t seem out of the ordinary.
pick a special spot
okay so we know how important location is for photos, but they should also choose a location that’s special to both of them or exciting for them to go to together, like a new hike they’ve been excited to do.
be sure to give suggestions and ideas before making everything official. think about places you have done regular couples shoots that time of year or day before!
ask, ask, ask
this is not the time to assume what the plan is! be sure to triple check the exact location, time of day and what type of photos they are looking for! you don’t want to assume that the soon-to-be-fiance knows you will be there if it is supposed to be a surprise that they are having photos taken!
be sure to remind them that having a photographer tag along on a hike may seem random to their unsuspecting partner, so think about incorporating the photos as a part of it all. have them tell their partner they got them a surprise photoshoot or that you (the photographer) asked them to model!! it’s a great way to make sure they are both wearing something they like and are ready to be in front of the camera. plus, then you can get them in the exact location for the moment versus hoping to connect and be there when it’s ready!
communicate communicate, communicate
if they aren’t going to include you and want it to be a surprise, have a very clear and set location planned so no one misses it! communicate with your client on what they will be wearing and ask them any and all details so both of you are totally prepared!
i usually have a marker in the location or a clear spot set for them to pop the question. that way, i can get the best lighting and views possible for photographing the proposal.
tell family + friends
if their friends and family can keep a secret, remind them that they can tell them about the proposal! whether they want it a surprise or not, think about everyone who will and wont know!! family is important to share it with if they want them in the loop and will only make their day that much more special. after the big moment ask if they would like to facetime family so you can get a cute photo of them sharing the big news!
i hope these tips have been helpful. have more questions on how to grow, run or organize your photography business? check my mentoring sessions HERE
