A Guide to Planning the Perfect Proposal (and Actually Capturing It)
A proposal happens once. It’s fast, emotional, completely real and there’s no redo (no pressure). I’ve had the good fortune to be able to photograph a few proposals over the years. They’re always such a thrill. It’s as close to being a spy on a secret mission as I ever get to feel. If you’re thinking about planning a proposal in Detroit and want to have it photographed, here’s a little bit about my process and exactly how I approach proposal photography so you can focus on what matters and trust that everything else is handled.
How to Plan Your Proposal with a Photographer
The first step is always a planning call. We’ll talk through your proposal idea, the location, timing, and how you envision everything will unfold. I’ll guide you through details you might not have considered yet like where the light will be or where to position yourselves for the best composition.
Next is a site visit. For locals, we do this together. When Josh reached out about proposing to Rachel, he knew he wanted to incorporate the Detroit Skyline into the moment. We met days before the proposal, at the Detroit Riverwalk, to talk through the plan. As you can see, Josh hit his mark perfectly.
For folks from out of town, I’ll still make sure we’ve taken all the guesswork out of the moment. I’ll send you helpful google map pins (like where to park or where the exact spot is). I also send a video talking you through the plan for the actual moment. It will show you exactly where to stand, which way to face, and where to drop to one knee. This ensures the background is clean, the light is right, and both of your faces are visible. Before the proposal happens, I’ll be in position. I try to pack light and keep a low profile so you and your partner can experience the initial moment as fully as possible. The goal is simple: to make sure when the moment comes, you don’t have to think about anything except asking the question.
The Moments After
Right after the proposal, we take advantage of that excited energy and spend some time taking portraits. This part is meant to feel more like an extension of the moment than a formal photoshoot. That being said, many of my couples use these portraits as engagement photos or in their save the dates. You can’t beat the efficiency of checking one more thing off your to-do list before you’re even engaged.
Celebrating With the Ones You Love
If you’re planning to celebrate afterwards, with family or friends, I love to document that as well. When Carly reached out about proposing to Meg, she mentioned that she had arranged to have family waiting to celebrate with cake at Meg’s Aunt’s house nearby. I told her I’d love to join them for a few of those moments, as well. I’m a documentarian, at heart, so these photographs are always some of my favorites.
Being Camera Ready
One of the easiest ways to set yourself up for being camera ready is to plan a date that naturally calls for getting a little dressed up. You don’t need to overproduce anything. If the plan is something like a nice walk along the riverfront at sunset and dinner, your partner will likely show up feeling like their best self without thinking twice about it.
When it comes to nails, this is your moment to be just slightly strategic. You can coordinate with a friend to suggest a nail appointment in the days leading up. Will that raise a little suspicion? Maybe. That being said, if she’s completely blindsided by this proposal, that may mean a few important conversations were skipped along the way. A little anticipation doesn’t ruin the surprise. It just means you’re both stepping into the moment with intention.
Quick Tips
- If they’re someone who keeps up with their hair, timing around a fresh cut or color can make a difference. As a bottle born redhead, I hope my future husband thinks to propose when I don’t have roots.
- Don’t overthink it. Make a reservation for that spot that’s been on your list, and pop the question somewhere scenic on the way.
- Have a simple backup plan if you’re proposing outdoors, just in case the weather decides to be classic midwest chaotic. If you’re planning in Detroit, I can help with this!
- Pick a time when they can be relaxed and present, not rushed, hungry, or coming off a stressful moment.
Planning a Detroit Proposal? Let’s Make It Seamless
If you’re thinking about proposing and want it documented in a way that feels true to the moment, I’d love to help you plan it. You can reach out to me here, and we’ll create a plan that lets you stay fully present while I take care of the rest.
