A Surprise Cincinnati Zoo Proposal with Julep the Penguin | Cincinnati Proposal Photographer
Last month, I had the opportunity to photograph one of the most unique and memorable surprise proposals I've ever been a part of—and that's saying a lot.
When Chad first reached out to me, he knew he wanted to propose to Teresa at the Cincinnati Zoo. He wanted something meaningful, memorable, and completely unexpected. What he didn't know was exactly how all of the details would come together.
That's where the planning came in.
One of the things I love most about proposal photography is helping clients navigate the planning process. A surprise proposal should feel effortless for the couple experiencing it, even though there's often quite a bit of coordination happening behind the scenes.
For Chad's proposal, I worked with Brianna, one of the Zoo's Private Events Sales Managers, to create an experience that was both seamless and unforgettable. Chad was involved in the big-picture decisions, but once we established the vision, Brianna and I were able to handle much of the coordination. That allowed him to focus on what mattered most: enjoying the experience and preparing to ask one very important question..
Why Planning a Proposal at the Cincinnati Zoo Is Easier Than You Think
Many people assume that planning a proposal at a place as large as the Cincinnati Zoo would be overwhelming, but it can actually be surprisingly stress-free.
Brianna's expertise is creating incredible private experiences at the Zoo. She knows the logistics, the event options, the animal encounters, and all of the details that transform a great idea into an amazing experience.
My expertise is making sure the moments are beautifully documented.
As a photographer, and an annual Zoo pass holder, I know where the best lighting is throughout the park, which locations photograph beautifully throughout the day, and where we can create portraits that feel romantic while avoiding some of the busiest areas.
Together, it's a pretty great team.
Think of Brianna as your private experience expert and me as your photo expert. And if you need someone to point out the best portrait locations throughout the Zoo, I can absolutely be your personal tour guide. If you need animal facts, however, you should definitely ask literally anyone else, but at least I know where most of the exhibits are!
The Surprise Proposal
The day began with a private lunch inside the Zoo.
Meanwhile, Teresa had no idea what was about to happen.
To help preserve the surprise, I was introduced as a volunteer photographer working with the Zoo rather than their dedicated proposal photographer. This allowed me to stay nearby and document the experience without raising any suspicion (except she was already suspicious of Chad before I even came lol).
Everything was going according to plan.
After lunch, Chad and Teresa visited with a tortoise and then had a private animal encounter with Julep the penguin.
As they spent time interacting with Julep, Chad found his moment.
He got down on one knee and asked Teresa to spend the rest of her life with him.
She said yes and then Julep decided he wanted to be involved too.
As Chad tried to stand back up and put the ring on Teresa's finger, Julep kept wandering between and around his legs, making the entire moment even more memorable. It was one of those unscripted moments that nobody could have planned but somehow made the story even better.
Honestly, it couldn't have been more perfect.
Why Professional Proposal Photography Matters
A proposal happens once.
The surprise, anticipation, excitement, tears, laughter, and celebration all happen within a matter of minutes.
Having a professional proposal photographer allows those moments to be preserved forever.
Because everything had been planned in advance, I was able to focus on documenting genuine reactions instead of directing the moment. The result was a collection of photographs that tell the complete story—from the anticipation leading up to the proposal to the joy that followed.
Afterward, we explored some of the Zoo's beautiful gardens and pathways for engagement portraits, taking advantage of some of my favorite photo locations throughout the park.
Exciting News: Preferred Proposal Photography Vendor at the Cincinnati Zoo
Experiences like Chad and Teresa's make me especially excited to share that I've recently been added to the Cincinnati Zoo's preferred vendor list for proposal photography.
The Zoo offers an incredible backdrop for proposals, combining beautiful botanical gardens, unique event spaces, private dining experiences, and unforgettable animal encounters.
Whether you're dreaming of:
- A surprise proposal during an animal encounter
- A romantic couples session that ends with a proposal
- A private lunch followed by a surprise engagement
- A fully customized proposal experience
We'll help guide you through the process.
Brianna can help coordinate the private experience through the Zoo, while I help with proposal planning, photography logistics, timing, and documenting every moment once the day arrives.
The goal is simple: create an experience that's memorable, personal, and as stress-free as possible.
What's Included in Cincinnati Zoo Proposal Packages?
Proposal experiences through the Zoo include:
- Admission and parking for the happy couple
- A picnic basket to enjoy throughout the Zoo
- Champagne and keepsake glasses
- An appearance from one of the Zoo's Animal Ambassadors
- A dedicated Proposal Coordinator and on-site Supervisor
- A complimentary animal painting
For more information, you can find more information here.
Looking for a Cincinnati Proposal Photographer?
If you're planning a surprise proposal in Cincinnati and want an experience that's a little more unique than dinner and a ring box, I'd love to help.
Whether you're still brainstorming ideas or already know exactly what you want, I can help connect you with the right people, create a photography plan that keeps the surprise intact, and document one of the biggest moments of your life.
And if your proposal happens to involve a penguin named Julep?
