Planning the perfect proposal
Perhaps you’ve stumbled across this blog because you are already in the works of planning something special. Perhaps it’s been sent to you as a sneaky hint to - cough cough- hire a photographer- get a jump on planning. Whatever the case may be, this post will offer insight from a photographers perspective on how to pop the question in the most perfect way.
I have to start by saying this: The perfect proposal isn’t the one you’ve spent the most money on or the one that is the most pinterest-worthy. The perfect proposal is the thoughtful one that feels most authentic to you.
The first step into your wedding planning season should reflect both of your cares and interests. If the two of you as a couple are laid back and go-with-the-flow types, there’s no reason to be planning something that isn’t representative of that.
Keep on reading for 3 simple points to planning your perfect proposal!
To document or not to document
Okay, so you’ve made the biggest decision: to propose. You’ve purchased a ring (or maybe not! We didn’t.) and the only thing you need is a burst of bravery. The first step in your planning process is to ask “Should I hire a photographer?”
Now to be fully transparent my answer will usually be ‘Yes!’ however this sometimes isn’t the main priority for every couple. You’ll also need to consider the extra cost a photographer is. If you’re willing to make the investment an established photographer will help you sort all the details like location, timing, and set up. You’ll be able to knock out a ton of the heavy lifting just by having them by your side.
For example, I already have a long list of favorite locations that are private, beautiful, and accessible. Most photographers shoot 1-2 hours before sunset for that low, golden light, which will narrow down the time of day and help schedule out the rest of your activities.
I have several approaches when it comes to proposals depending on my couples preferences.
Hide-away the whole time: I’m happy to hike hills, crouch in shrubbery, and climb over rocks. If you’re both private but still want some photos to commemorate I can pack my sneaky super zoomy lens and camp it out!
Stay hidden then approach: After some time some couples might want some close up portraits or a mini couples session. Once they feel the time is right I’ll come a bit closer for those detail shots!
Up close and personal: If your parter is already suspicious of your intentions and you want it to be a surprise, don’t clue them in that a photographer will be involved. In the past I’ve tricked a friend into ‘modeling’ at a special location for me only to have her boyfriend (now husband!) show up with the ring. It was a total surprise but I was still able to get a close up reaction!
If the two of you are more private then reaching out to a photographer might not be the way to go. Perhaps you’ve had this conversation and know how you want to plan, but definitely trust your gut! You’ll have plenty of photos taken during your engagement and wedding!
2. Picking your location
Ultimately your location will set the tone for your moment. Perhaps you already have a sentimental location in mind, like where you frequently stroll together, had a favorite date, or said ‘I love you’ for the first time. If you want photos you can change your clothes and fix your hair later in the day, but you can’t change the backdrop of your images!
Personally, I would advise against bustling areas filled with passing strangers. I love Disneyland, and it’s an incredible special place for me and my husband, but I would have been mortified if he got down on one knee in front of the castle!
If you’re looking for an authentic reaction a quieter location is key.
When it comes to decorations- Keep it simple!! It’s easy to get lost in props and an over the top set-up. These items add up and can easily take over, stealing away from what this moment is really about. If you’ve chosen a beautiful location I’d let that do the work for you.
3. Recruiting the right help
Having extra help on the day of your proposal can make things run more smoothly and help ensure everything goes according to plan.
Enlisting her best friend or sister will help keep those small details you may not have thought of in order. Perhaps her sister will trick her into wearing the perfect dress and a best friend can make sure her nails are done. It’ll be nice to have someone to confide in and fine tune your plans. A girlfriend will have a lot more insight into her expectations and help you bring them to life.
At the end of the day your proposal isn’t about what you’re wearing or where you are. It’s the first step towards an incredible journey. The wedding planning season going to be smooth sailing the whole time. It’s essential to be able to remember what matters most in your relationship: each other.
You can view some recent proposal galleries by clicking here! Looking for more wedding planning inspiration? Click here!
Kamarin Ann is a wedding photographer based in the San Francisco Bay Area. She specializes in bright and colorful wedding photography for fun couples. Serving Northern California, Arizona, Hawaii, and will happily travel to wherever your love is. With an emphasis on authentic moments, relaxed posing, and a documentary style to truly capture the way your wedding felt.
