Shooting the Proposal

Okay, so it’s no secret that I love engagement sessions. They’re romantic, the finished photos have tons of uses, and they’re a great excuse to explore great spots around the city! There’s also a practical aspect to engagement sessions: they help me get to know you as a couple. Philadelphia wedding photography should start with a Philadelphia engagement session. So why not take it back to where it all really begins: the Philadelphia proposal?

Secretly shooting a proposal is a tricky business. Here are a few tips to help ease the process and get fantastic photos:

Plan, Plan, Plan

A proposal should be equal parts careful planning and spontaneity. First of all, know your audience. Would your significant other enjoy being photographed paparazzi-style? You have options if you don’t want me stalking you. For instance, you can schedule a “couple’s shoot” without revealing that you plan to propose. You’ll both get to plan your outfits and feel confident and great. Then, with everything in place, you can pop the question!

If you do want me to hang back and shoot from afar, we’ll need to figure out a way for me to hide or blend in with the scenery. This will take even more strategic planning, and we’ll need a backup plan to make sure I don’t miss anything.

Pick Your Spot

The perfect proposal spot shouldn’t be too crowded. We don’t want a big tourist group walking past just as you get down on one knee. We don’t want complete privacy, either, or else I’ll need a really good hiding spot. Keep in mind, a 70-200 lens is gigantic! It tends to stand out.

Lighting and a decent line of sight are also important. If having my expertise helps you make your decision about where to propose, let me know! I can provide advice or even scope out the location for any potential problems. The more prepared we are, the better.

Keep in Contact

The key to coordinating a secret photoshoot is careful planning! Most importantly, we’ll need to be in contact just prior to the big moment. I’ll need to arrive early, find a spot to hide, and then tell you where I’ll be. You’ll need to let me know when you arrive, and you might also need to cue me when you’re ready to go.

Are you planning a proposal? Would you like a Philadelphia wedding photographer to capture each unforgettable moment? Contact me and we’ll start planning!