You’ve picked the ring.

You’ve picked the location.

You’ve probably rehearsed what you want to say.


But here’s what most people don’t think about:

A proposal happens incredibly fast.

From a photographer’s perspective, tiny details make the difference between getting the shot and missing important moments entirely. The good news? A few simple adjustments can completely change your gallery.


Here’s everything I wish every proposal client knew beforehand.

Stay on your knee longer than what feels natural!

This is the biggest one.

Most proposals happen in about 5 seconds:

  • down on one knee
  • ring out
  • immediate hug

…and it’s over before I can fully capture the moment.

When you get down on one knee, stay there longer than you think you should.

Even an extra 5–10 seconds gives me time to capture:

  • your partner’s reaction
  • tears
  • surprise
  • the ring
  • wide shots
  • close-ups
  • both of your faces

Trust me — it will not feel awkward in the moment. Adrenaline makes time move fast.


Stay on Your Knee Longer Than Feels Natural

Hold the Kiss Longer


This one matters so much.

Right after the proposal, most couples kiss for half a second and immediately pull away to talk.

Instead:

  • kiss
  • pause
  • kiss again
  • stay close for a few seconds

This gives me time to:

  • change angles
  • capture movement
  • get both wide and close images
  • avoid photos where someone’s face is blocked

The “just engaged” emotions right after the proposal are some of the best images of the entire session — don’t rush through them.

Don’t Immediately Stand Up

After they say yes, stay in the moment for a minute.

Hug. Laugh. Cry. Hold hands. Look at the ring.

A lot of the best proposal photos happen immediately after the actual proposal — not during it.

The more you slow down and stay present, the more authentic your gallery will feel.

Be Aware of Your Positioning

You do not need to constantly think about the camera, but small positioning adjustments help a ton.

A few tips:

  • Try not to completely turn your back toward me
  • Angle yourselves slightly toward the scenery
  • Leave a little space between your bodies during the actual kneel so reactions are visible
  • Avoid proposing in the middle of large crowds if possible

Before the proposal, I’ll usually help guide you on where to stand so the lighting and angles work best.


Give Me a Heads Up Before You Arrive

Timing matters more than people realize.

Please text me:

  • when you leave
  • if you’re running late
  • when you park
  • when you’re walking up

Even better: share your location on the way.

This helps me:

  • stay hidden
  • prepare camera settings
  • position myself correctly
  • avoid missing the moment because of timing changes


Think About What You’ll Wear

You don’t need to dress overly formal for your proposal, but putting a little thought into your outfits can make a huge difference in your photos. The goal is to look like the best version of yourselves while still feeling comfortable and natural.

A few quick tips:

  • Try to wear colors that complement each other instead of perfectly matching
  • Neutral tones and simple patterns tend to photograph best
  • Avoid large logos or distracting graphics
  • Dress appropriately for the location and weather
  • Wear something you feel confident and comfortable in

A few often-overlooked details:

  • Empty bulky items from your pockets before the proposal
  • Phones, wallets, and keys can create awkward shapes in photos
  • If possible, try to casually encourage your partner to set down their purse or phone before the proposal or portraits
  • Little details like this help keep the focus on the moment instead of distractions

At the end of the day, the best outfit is one that feels authentic to you both. If you’d be happy seeing the photos framed in your home years from now, you’re probably on the right track.

Send Me a Photo of Yourselves Beforehand

Proposal locations are often crowded or at the bare minimum, we don't have the formal introductions I have with a normal session.

Please send:

  • a recent selfie together
  • if you can send one day of with what you are currently wearing, great, but...
  • if taking a selfie will tip her off, just send a recent pic of the two of you together
  • what you’ll be wearing
  • identifying details

The more prepared I am, the smoother everything feels.


Keep the Excuse Simple

The best proposal cover stories are believable, natural, and low-effort. Overcomplicated plans tend to create unnecessary stress & sometimes even make your partner suspicious.

Simple excuses usually work best, like:

  • “Let’s take a walk over here.”
  • “I think this spot will have a great view.”
  • “We’re a little early for dinner.”
  • “I want to check out this location.”

I’m always happy to help brainstorm ideas and come up with a cover story that fits your relationship, but ultimately you know your soon-to-be fiancé better than anyone else. Combining what feels natural to your relationship with my experience photographing proposals helps keep things authentic!



Trust Your Photographer

You do not need to perform.

You do not need to constantly worry about where I am.

My job is to:

  • anticipate reactions
  • capture emotion
  • direct lighting and positioning
  • stay discreet
  • document the moment naturally

Your job is simply to be present with your partner.

That’s what creates the images you’ll actually care about years from now.

Final Thoughts

The best proposal galleries happen when couples slow down and let themselves actually experience the moment.

Stay on the knee longer.

Hold the kiss a little extra.

Don’t rush away from the emotions.

Those few extra seconds make all the difference.


And I promise — future you will be glad those moments were captured.